Peristaltic pumps are known for their durability and low maintenance needs, but “low maintenance” does not mean “no maintenance.” Proper care helps reduce downtime and ensures the pump consistently delivers precise flow. This article outlines preventive maintenance strategies that industrial users, labs, and OEM equipment owners can follow.
To maintain a peristaltic pump effectively, you first need to know what wears out:
l Pump Tubing – the most common consumable
l Rollers or Shoes – depending on pump head design
l Bearings & Gearbox – subject to long-term mechanical fatigue
l Motor Drive – may experience heat-related stress during continuous operation
By watching these components closely, you can predict failures before they happen.
Instead of waiting until the tubing bursts or collapses:
l Use operating hours to predict replacement time.
l Keep spare tubing in stock to avoid downtime.
l Evaluate tubing performance monthly in continuous-duty applications.
For harsh chemicals, higher speeds, or high pressures, shorten the replacement cycle.
Overloading is one of the fastest ways to shorten pump life. Follow these rules:
Higher speed = accelerated tubing fatigue.
Excess backpressure increases heat and friction.
Oversized or undersized tubing causes inaccurate flow and premature wear.
Dust, abrasive particles, and chemical vapors can damage roller bearings or motor seals. Good maintenance practices include:
l Wiping surfaces after every use
l Covering the pump when it’s not operating
l Avoiding exposure to solvents, acids, and lab fumes
A clean environment ensures smoother operation and longer motor life.
A peristaltic pump motor rarely fails suddenly — there are usually early warning signs:
l Gradual loss of torque
l Excessive heat during operation
l Intermittent vibration
l Strange clicking or scraping sounds
Addressing these early prevents major breakdowns.
If the pump remains unused for weeks or months:
l Release compression on tubing or remove it completely
l Disconnect power
l Store the pump in a dry, temperature-stable room
l Keep tubing sealed in moisture-proof bags
Proper storage prevents oxidation, stickiness, and tubing deformation.
A simple logbook can dramatically improve reliability. Record:
l Operating hours
l Tubing replacement dates
l Observed wear
l Abnormal noise or temperature
l Maintenance actions taken
This helps you predict service intervals and avoid unexpected failures.
Peristaltic pumps are simple, reliable, and long-lasting — but only with proper preventive maintenance. By watching tubing health, monitoring rollers and motor behavior, keeping the pump clean, and following a replacement schedule, you can keep your peristaltic pump performing at its best with minimal downtime.