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Solar Power Water Pump
I have a "Solar Copper Cascade" water fountain and I would like to know exactly how the magnetic coupling work
The sealed solar powered motor drives a pump impeller using a magnetic coupling. I don't know if the impeller is supposed to be magnetized or not. Mine is and it doesn't work most of the time. Maybe a spinning magnet in the motor is supposed to drive a non-magnetized impeller in the pump. I would like to know if this is how it is supposed to work.
Because the fountain is solar powered, the pumps are a brushless DC motor attached to an impeller. Brushless motors work by putting permanent magnets on the rotor. A small controller chip and power transistors sealed in the main body then drive the electromagnets of the stator all sealed inside the main motor body. The controller chip creates a rotating magnetic field in the stator that in turn causes the rotor to spin. The motor may be failing because the rotor is not properly aligned and is binding. Check that the rotor can freely spin inside the motor housing and doesn't hit the side.
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Solar-Powered Water Fountain Questions Answered
Solar water fountains have become quite popular and really in very high demand in recent years. A solar fountain will offer you the ability to have a lovely garden fountain without the need for burying an ugly cord or to plug it into an outlet. These fountains, powered by the sun, bring many questions. Here are a few of the most commonly asked:
How do solar fountains work?
There is a solar panel that you place outside the fountain. A cord will connect from the fountain to this solar panel. When the sun’s rays strike this panel, it powers the water pump, which causes the water to flow. Because solar panels do not actually store any energy, the solar powered fountain will only work when the sun is shining, and is therefore not operational at night or during extremely dark storms.
Is the solar panel a separate unit?
The tiered solar fountains have a solar panel that can operate up to fifteen feet away from the fountain itself. The solar panel can be hooked up to the pump inside the fountain and then placed away from it where there is more optimal sun exposure if necessary. Your solar panel will come with several placement options; You will be able to mount it using the stake provided to place it wherever it will receive the most ample sunlight.
How do I keep debris out of my solar fountain’s pump?
There is a small piece of foam/sponge covering over the fountain’s pump so that debris will not get in and damage your pump. It is still very important, however, that you clean out any debris that does find its way into your pump regularly.
Will my solar water fountain work indoors?
There is an AC Adaptor included with the tiered solar fountains which allows them to be used indoors. An AC Adaptor is approved only for indoor use, so you should used it only in an indoor outlet or on a porch that is covered.
Will my solar fountain work on a cloudy day?
You will find that your fountain will work best on a bright, sunny day, but it may work on a cloudy day as well (although likely not as strongly).
Can I use my solar fountain during the winter?
You can use your solar water fountain during the winter as long as it isn’t below freezing. Freezing weather and snow can damage the solar panel as well as cause the bowls of the fountain to crack. You should bring your solar fountain inside for the winter and enjoy it indoors if you have an AC Adaptor or you can simply store it in a warm place if you do not.
What are the benefits of a solar fountain if I can’t enjoy it on a daily basis?
The most beneficial thing about having a solar water fountain is not needing an electrical supply, thereby providing you the flexibility to place it anywhere you like. Solar fountains are very environmentally friendly and are quite safe given there are no cords to deal with. Solar water features are essentially maintenance free – simply make sure they have enough water and Voila! Your fountain is sheer perfection!
