Pond Boss Forums AERATION Systems questions Fountain pump help

For water pumps and fountains one is expecting a motor to toss water that weighs 8lbs/gal and 40lbs/5gal into the air. How high can you throw a 5 gallon bucket of water? The higher the water is thrown the harder it is for the pump to do it - i.e. more work. The harder and longer a motor works the faster it wares out. Doing this heavy work uses lots of electricity. IMO never expect a motor to last very long when it is overworked.

It is much easier and electrically efficient to pump air (very light weight) instead of moving heavy weight water. With a 1/4hp good quality air compressor with the proper diffuser one can move close to 200,000 gallons per hour using air lift technology. We have had these systems running for 15 to more than 20 years for several hours per day with no major problems except maybe a simple quick pump rebuild.
Here are two customer reviews for the 5000 fountainpump from eBay:
Worked until warranty ran out, then it was done.
We were pleased with the pump/aerator at first, it seemed to work well. Almost immediately after the warranty expired, it stopped working completely. We contacted the company who tried to help us trouble shoot but we were not able to get it working again. After speaking with the tech once again, he stated "yes its done, but I can help you re-order another one". We spent over $800 on this unit and it worked for one year. We have since tried to contact the company to ask for assistance with a replacement or any help. They have as of today not replied. For the cost, we feel like this unit which was in a very clean, non - algae treated swimming pond should have lasted longer than one year. Very unsatisfied with product quality and customer assistance.

Worked for one year then crashed and burned
Worked for about 14-15 months and died. Contacted them for assistance and was told it was the motor which would have to be sent back and repaired at my expense. Base is not very sturdy will need to anchor from all for sides to keep it from tilting forward when it’s running. I have now replaced the pump twice they just don’t last long at all. These type of pond units are very expensive no matter where you buy it from. My suggestion is to save your money and purchase something more reliable the first time.