Riello RDB pump failing annually

WestWicklow1 · 01-10-2024 11:27am #1

I had a new Firebird kerosene condensing boiler and a new Riello RDB burner installed in 2010.

The original kerosene pump (photo 1) lasted until 2021 (11 years).

It was replaced with the pump in photo 2 and it lasted 1 year.

It was replaced with a similarly branded pump in photo 3 and it also only lasted 1 year.

It was replaced with the pump currently installed which has now started to fail (branded the same as photos 2 and 3). When it fails, the pump body is hot. When it cools it will start up again.

The non-Riello branded pumps are seized but the original Riello branded pump did not sieze.

The current pump was purchased from a well-known heating and plumbing supplier in November 2023.

Before I go with the pump and invoice in hand and try to get it replaced under warranty, can anyone advise me on why this might happen? Are the pumps in photos 2 and 3 genuine Riello for example?

Wearb · 01-10-2024 1:46pm

Usually water/ dirt. often happens when people buy small quantities of kerosene or lift back of tank.

You'll be very lucky to get a warranty one.

WestWicklow1 · 01-10-2024 2:12pm

Wearb, thanks for your reply.

I have two tanks and only ever fill them. I've never ordered less than 1000 liters of fuel. Neither do I ever allow myself to run out and the tanks are tilted away from the outlet and have never been in any other position.

What's your opinion on the photos? Are the pumps in photos 2 and 3 genuine Riello?

Wearb · 01-10-2024 3:07pm

I've never "knowingly " come across a fake one. However the one in the first photo is the most unfamiliar one to me.

Here's apicture of one that I'm about to change in a few minutes, because of a tank being tilted.

Are yours seized or leaking from the seal?

WestWicklow1 · 01-10-2024 4:43pm

Actually, the pump in photo 1 is the original that came with the burner in 2010.

The non-Riello branded pumps (like the one in your photo) are seized but the original Riello branded pump didn't seize. Exactly what happened it I don't know but it definitely didn't leak.

Wearb · 01-10-2024 7:43pm

Water or dirt. They're a soft enough pump, but if serviced regularly including checking tank for water and filters for dirt, they are usually trouble free.

Problems can also be caused by taking in air bubbles when pipework is in negative pressure.

If your service guy is experienced he should be able to diagnose the cause.

On my way home, I replaced my stock one that I used today. I nearly fell down when I heard the price. Not going to say price here as its a trade price, but 35% more expensive than the last one that I bought.