Secoh air pump broken? The complete guide to diagnosing and repairing your micro wastewater treatment plant

Is your micro-station making noise, lacking air, or stopped? In 9 out of 10 cases, the problem comes from the Secoh air pump — specifically its membranes or valves. Good news: this is also the simplest and least expensive failure to fix. Here’s how to diagnose your pump, repair it yourself when possible, and where to find the exact part you need.

The air pump (or compressor) is the lung of your individual sanitation system. Without it, no oxygen for the bacteria that purify your wastewater — and treatment quality drops within hours. Acting quickly is essential.

How does a Secoh air pump work?

Secoh pumps are electromagnetic membrane pumps (also called linear pumps). The principle is both simple and robust:

1. A coil powered by current creates an alternating magnetic field;
2. This field vibrates a magnet connected to one or two membranes (the famous rubber diaphragms);
3. By deforming, the membranes suck in then push out air;
4. Valves (check valves) direct this flow in one direction, toward your micro-station diffuser.

This continuous airflow supports aerobic biological treatment: oxygenated bacteria break down pollution. If the air decreases, purification decreases. That’s why any sign of weakness deserves your attention.

Signs of a failing Secoh air pump

Learn to recognize symptoms to intervene before complete failure:

Remember: rubber membranes are wear parts. In most installations, they wear out after 2 to 4 years. Preventive replacement avoids total shutdown... and the extra cost of emergency repairs.

What to do in case of a breakdown? Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Safety first

Always unplug the pump before any handling. Work on a device that is powered off and dry.

2. Check the power supply

Make sure the pump is properly connected, the outlet is powered, and the fuse or circuit breaker has not tripped. A simple lack of power explains many "complete shutdowns."

3. Inspect membranes and valves

This is the number one cause. Open the casing, remove the membranes and examine them: a pierced, cracked, or hardened membrane must be replaced. Then check the valves: if they are cracked, deformed, or dirty, they no longer ensure airtight airflow.

4. Consult your model’s manual

The Secoh manual (EL-S, JDK range…) indicates the torque and assembly direction specific to your reference — details that make a difference in repair longevity.

Replacing membranes and valves: the most cost-effective repair

In the vast majority of cases, you don’t need a new pump: a simple Secoh repair kit (membranes + valves) is enough to give your compressor a second life.

• Replace torn membranes — to restore full and stable airflow.
• Repair or replace valves — to ensure tightness and properly directed airflow.
• Always replace both together — membranes and valves wear out together; changing them at the same time avoids a second disassembly a few months later.

The crucial point: use the exact reference of your model. A Secoh EL-S-60N kit does not fit an EL-S-80N. Note the reference on your pump’s label before ordering.

When should you replace the entire pump?

If, after replacing the membranes and valves, the problem persists — loud noise, overheating, flow still low — it is probably the motor (the electromagnetic part) that is at the end of its life. Complete pump replacement then becomes the most reliable solution.

Is your model no longer manufactured? Don’t worry: there is almost always an equivalent Secoh pump with the same flow rate, perfectly compatible with your micro station. The flow rate (expressed in liters/minute, e.g.: 60, 80, 100 L/min) is the key criterion to respect.

Why choose Foudebassin for your Secoh air pump?

• The largest stock of spare parts for micro wastewater treatment plants: membranes, valves, and kits for Secoh pumps available immediately.
• A specialized repair workshop, located just 25 km from Brussels, equipped for all air pumps and compressors.
• Personalized assistance to identify the pump equivalent to yours and ensure perfect compatibility.
• Expert customer support that answers your questions and guides you to the right part the first time.

Frequently asked questions about Secoh air pumps

How long does a Secoh pump membrane last?

In continuous use on a micro-station, expect an average of 2 to 4 years. Preventive replacement of membranes and valves significantly extends the device's lifespan.

How do I know which part reference to order?

Note the exact model on the label of your pump (e.g., EL-S-80N). This reference determines the compatible membrane/valve kit.

Can I repair my Secoh pump myself?

Yes, replacing membranes and valves is within the reach of a careful DIYer, with the pump unplugged. If the failure persists after changing the kit, contact our workshop.

What happens if I leave my pump broken?

Stopping aeration deprives bacteria of oxygen: purification quickly collapses and nuisances (odors) may appear. It is important to act without delay.

My Secoh model no longer exists, what should I do?

Our team directs you to the equivalent pump with the same flow rate, fully compatible with your installation.

In summary

A Secoh air pump losing power is almost always a matter of membranes and valves — a quick and economical repair. Diagnose the symptom, identify your reference, and replace the wear part before a complete failure. And if in doubt, the Foudebassin team is here to guide you.