MP10 Problem

redfishbluefish · Apr 2, 2016

Why does something bad always happen when you're on vacation. I just got home after spending a week+ touring Arizona, and come home to an MP10 not working. It is out of warranty, so that's not an option. Haven't looked into it real hard, but here's what I know. The controller is receiving power, but no lights are lit. The control is also warm. And obviously the powerhead isn't pumping. Anybody see this before?

I'm beat from traveling and won't take a close look until tomorrow. Any insight is appreciated.

mcarroll · Apr 2, 2016

Bummer! Proximity to the full moon and April 1 noted!

I'm a little afraid to ask, but how's the livestock?

Are you measuring power into the controller with a meter, or how do you know?

redfishbluefish · Apr 3, 2016

Thanks @mcarroll for the response. The livestock is just fine....although there are corals there, this pump is in my sump.

As far as measuring power, it was verify two ways....one with a meter....24 volts, and second, by plugging in another power supply from another vortech pump that is currently working. Nothing. I did open up the driver and there was a slight "electrical" smell present.

I'm 95 percent positive it's the driver, but to verify, I've asked by son to bring over the spare MP10 he has.....I just gave him an MP10 about a month ago.

Assuming it's the driver, do I do the $50 upgrade to QD, or see if I can pick up a used driver from someone upgrading to QD. I'm leaning toward a used driver, since this is in my sump, and the slight amount of noise isn't noticed (and it will save me a few bucks. :D)

I'm assuming I have an MP10WES, since the face has the "W" on it and the "EcoSmart" as well?

jsker · Apr 3, 2016

Do the upgrade. Then you can use the wifi connection and the app to control the pump.

redfishbluefish · Apr 4, 2016

@jsker , you know what I say about your suggestion about using the wifi connection and the app to control the pump.................."THBBFT" :D:D:D

This pump is in an approximate 17" x 17" x 12" deep sump and I have no interest in controlling this pump other than turning it on and off when I feed the two clowns, also located in the sump. I'm also a tad older than most and don't have my cell phone super glued in my hand. Most times the cell is next to the land-line phone, and typically with a dead battery. :eek:

I did verify this morning that it is the driver that is dead. Now I just need to find someone upgrading to QD. I just can't see putting QD on a powerhead I never hear anyway, because of it's location. Worst case is I spend the $50 for QD.

jsker · Apr 4, 2016

redfishbluefish said:
@jsker , you know what I say about your suggestion about using the wifi connection and the app to control the pump.................."THBBFT" :D:D:D

This pump is in an approximate 17" x 17" x 12" deep sump and I have no interest in controlling this pump other than turning it on and off when I feed the two clowns, also located in the sump. I'm also a tad older than most and don't have my cell phone super glued in my hand. Most times the cell is next to the land-line phone, and typically with a dead battery. :eek:

I did verify this morning that it is the driver that is dead. Now I just need to find someone upgrading to QD. I just can't see putting QD on a powerhead I never hear anyway, because of it's location. Worst case is I spend the $50 for QD.

Well said, Old Man:D I have a new appreciation that you know were THBBFT is from. I use the app only on my PC (computer :D) not my phone and I also have a land line. That being said, I really like the QD and the newer version of the Ecotech pumps. Find someone in your circle that has the pump set up before you say no.

onecansay · Apr 11, 2016

I replaced an ESw after it pooched with a QD. Installed wireless chip in new controller and what has happened is that I do get a little more flow (about 20-25 percent) but the wine is now a lower frequency which gives it the illusion that the pump is quieter.
Also have found when there is a power glitch the darn dry side "uncouples". I have discussed this with Ecotech and this may be just a one off problem. I have situated the dry side a little bit off the quietest position and have been watching for this problem to re-occur. It sometimes happens when I power down controller and restart but like I say am keeping an eye on this.
Still have other pump on old ESw controller and using a Reeflink for control.
P.S: Can you keep in touch when you eventually put on the QD to see if you experience the same situation or not. Thanks.