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The hidden savings in your pump room:
why 23‑year‑old equipment often outperforms new
When a pump reaches 15 or 20 years of service, the default reaction is often “let’s order a new one”. But at Altec Pumps & Valves, we’ve spent the last 23 years proving that rebuilding – not replacing – is usually the smarter financial and operational move. In this deep‑dive article, we’ll show you why your grandfather’s pump might still be the workhorse your plant needs.
1. The efficiency myth: older doesn’t mean weaker
A common misconception is that pump efficiency drops drastically after 10 years. In reality, a pump’s hydraulic design doesn’t age – only the clearances change due to wear. With proper maintenance and targeted rebuilds, we regularly restore pumps to 98% of their original efficiency. In many cases, the volute and impeller geometry is still optimal; only the wear rings, bearings, and seals need attention.
2. Cost comparison: rebuild vs. replace
Let’s look at a real‑world example from a BC pulp mill. A large centrifugal slurry pump (2,500 GPM, 350 hp) was scheduled for replacement. We quoted a full OEM‑spec rebuild; the new‑purchase quote was more than double. Here’s the breakdown:
| Item | Rebuild (Altec) | New pump (competitor) |
|---|---|---|
| Hard cost | $34,000 | $78,500 |
| Downtime (days) | 5 | 14 (delivery + install) |
| Warranty | 24 months | 18 months |
| Efficiency guarantee | 92% | 93% |
The mill saved $44,500 and was back online nine days sooner. Nine days of production – worth far more than the initial price difference.
3. Sustainability & the circular economy
Every rebuilt pump keeps approximately 2.5 tons of cast iron, stainless steel, and copper out of the scrap yard. With 10,000+ rebuilds completed, Altec has prevented 25,000 tons of industrial waste. That’s the equivalent of 2,500 garbage trucks. And because remanufacturing uses 85% less energy than producing new castings, your carbon footprint shrinks dramatically.
- 85% lower embodied carbon per pump
- No new mining for raw materials
- Full compliance with emerging ESG reporting
Case study: municipal water station
In 2024, the District of Maple Ridge faced a dilemma: two 600 hp vertical turbine pumps (installed 1995) showed vibration and reduced flow. A new pair would cost $340,000 and require 8 months lead time. Altec performed an on‑site assessment, pulled the bowls, and replaced the worn line shafts, bearings, and impeller wear rings. Total cost: $127,000. Total downtime: 11 days. Both pumps now run smoother than when new – and the district saved over $200,000.
4. The hidden risk of new equipment: interface mismatch
A brand‑new pump may look great on paper, but it often brings unforeseen installation costs: different flange ratings, baseplate modifications, motor base changes, and even new control logic. Rebuilding keeps your existing foundations, piping, and drivers – zero interface headaches. Our team has seen projects where “free” engineering support from a new‑pump vendor turned into $30,000 in unexpected site modifications.
5. When does replacement make sense?
We’re not anti‑replacement. If your application has changed (higher head, different fluid, variable speed requirements) or the pump casing is cracked beyond repair, new equipment is the answer. But for 8 out of 10 pumps we evaluate, a rebuild delivers the best ROI. Altec’s engineering team offers a free no‑obligation assessment – we’ll tell you honestly which path is wiser.
Want to discuss your own pump fleet?
Our engineers are ready to help you uncover hidden savings.
Contact our team© 2026 Altec Pumps & Valves .
