The inlets are both open and I didn't see anything blocking the pump on initial inspection. I'm just puzzled as my older pump never acted or sounded like this.

I'm in the process of drying the old one out. Next time I'm at the house, I'll hook it up and pray it works.

As for the new one, it's out of warranty even though it's never been used. If it burns up, I'll just throw it away.