Reading the reviews, it appears that the motor is prone to failure. If so how long can it be expected to last and how hard is it to replace/install?
1533372
There are two motors--one moves the round pan and one moves the conveyor. Both are just a couple of screws to replace. Super easy. Petsafe has sent me two new ones at no cost to me. Once this is out of warranty, I will look at replacing them with a better quality motor. I have found those for less than 10.00 on the Web. Mine lasted for 3 months and 6 months, respectively.
1533373
I was told that it depends on how many cats are using it and their weight. I'm a foster failure so I have multiple cats (and 7 litterboxes set up). Some of my cats are rotund (one is 16 pounds and one is 20 pounds). I'm sure the extra weight effects the motor, especially the bowl. My litterboxes have lasted around 1 year, sometimes more, sometimes less. However, the motors are only about $14 to replace, and they are pretty easy to replace---just 2 screws and a plug. PetSafe customer service is really good. I called the other day to buy several motors to replace in a couple boxes. They asked how long I had had my litterboxes and I couldn't remember if it had been 1 year or more, but they sent me a couple motors for free. They also let me buy a couple "90 day warranty" litterboxes for $40 each since the light on one litterbox went out completely and the lid on another won't stay down which causes the litterbox to stop working. (I have bought quite a few of these litterboxes and this is the first time this has happened). Anyway, if you have a box under 1 year and it stops working properly, call PetSafe customer service. They will send you new motors for free.
1533374
We have had no issues with the motor to date. We have had another similiar machine and the average use is 2 years. This is our first time purchasing this machine and so it's a test. Will leave a review if it does fail. We love it right now but do suggest purchasing the mat to put underneath as our two cats, do kick out the litter.
1533375
My first one lasted 1 month, the replacement I just received did not work straight out of the box. Going by the condition of the boxes they came in I'm guessing they were somebody else's rejects. I have one kitten, so it wasn't due to heavy use.
1533376
I had mine working perfect for almost a year. But when I took apart the motor the problem was NOT that the motor burned it. Dust had filled the gear box so badly that it stripped the gear of it's teeth. I poured out tablespoons of litter dust build up! Regularly take apart the motor house and clean out the dust and you shouldn't have a problem with it.
1533377
lasted 6 months- and very easy to replace. customer service was VERY helpful- new one shipped out next day. The thing is, when it works, it's GREAT
1533378
our first one lasted 2 years and they're not really hard to replace if you can find a new one.
1533379
I had motor and conveyor sticking and grinding issues from the first day. It didn't even work for 1 day. (Key Point) I contacted their Customer Care and rep said they were aware of motor issues. I received my (in warranty, no cost) replacement motor last week (01/15/2015). Installed very easy. Although the motor looks identical in all markings and labels, IT WORKS! It's been running without issue.
1533380
I'm on my second motor, different part, after less than a year. When it DOES work, it works pretty well if you've got the right litter. But when it goes out, bah! It takes more than a week to get the new motor and then *I* have to spend my time replacing it - it seems like a pretty common issue. After a year, if the company thinks it's getting away with telling me to stuff it because they can't make a motor that works for more than a few months, they will have to find another chump to screw over. It's a tad ridiculous.
1533381
We have had our Litter box for 2 years when it stopped. We ordered a new cord, a new motor and still not working. Very disappointed. Love it while it worked so good. We have 2 cats.
764017
If everything is connected properly and still not working I'd send it back or replace part not working through the warranty which is for a year. A piece broke on mine, twice, and the local vacuum store replaced it. It was very easy. Usually seller will pay for return ship and even arrange pick up on a defective item.
983759
I would call Drinkwell and ask if they will replace the motor. 5 months is not long But , I will tell you I don't think the motors are the best made. I am on my second one .
1879629
Yes, when the motor went out on mine on the second use I had no problem getting it replaced.
1668624
Uh.. ye-ah! Seriously, this things dont last forever. What's the alternative.. get it repaired? Good luck with that.I'm not being a smart ass.. I'm realistic. At the price you originally paid, a unit with reparable parts would be 2 -3 times more expensive.
532871
Use a good drill bit and don't push it and it''l work fine. Use some oil on the hole if larger than ~1/4 inch. Otherwise it is a continuous duty type motor that I have drilled a series of holes over a period of time and driven dozens of screws in short order. Doesn't heat up and keeps a good charge.
2214083
I believe it is the right replacement. I've replaced 3 of these motors (2 in my home and 1 in a friend's home) and they all worked out great. Easy installation and no problems since replacing them about 2 years ago. They're not real quiet but they do what they were designed to do, that is exhaust air from areas they're located in.
1226556
Hi Lindsey, unfortunately It's easier to replace it and much less costly than try to repair it. The same happened to me, but a quick click on amazon, a quick connection on the new unit... Up and running in no time and no labor cost! good luck.
428427
I was able to replace mine, bought a new motor. Surprised our only lasts two years. I own a restaurant and use it almost 3x a week and replaced it only after 5 years.
1597650
No problems yet although I must clean both motors often as they constantly pick up dust and what looks to be carpet fuzz. Tiny strands of something wrap around both motors and I'm sure cause some drag on them. Good Luck.
1269801
Yes, I did replace this motor and my AC worked good so far. It saved me a lot to replace the whole AC unit.
1986850
You can't just replaced the motor you have to replace the motor and the speed controller, the speed controller actually cost more than the motor, it'll probably cost u $160-$180
983761
I would call Drinkwell and ask if they will replace the motor. 5 months is not longBut , I will tell you I don't think the motors are the best made. I am on my second one .
788957
Having no problem with mine. But I should think it should last at least a year. I'd contact seller.
406752
When I had this problem it was a motor issue. All I could do was call for repair and replace motor. Good luck
669387
Motor Bad.... I have had to replace many, Motors don't last long I keep spare motors in stock.. Sounds like New Bad Motor..
1417012
Mine worked great for ~1.5 years. Similar to others, the motor died, and now I need to find a replacement.