To ensure that your pool remains an enjoyable place, it is crucial to maintain your pool pump in optimal condition. If you encounter problems with your pool pump, it is important to troubleshoot them immediately to maximize your time at the pool. Below is a detailed guide for troubleshooting and resolving common pool pump issues.
How to fix pool pump problems: 7 simple tips
Here are 7 simple tips to help you fix common pool pump problems
1. The pool pump won't turn on or shuts off while running
An electrical fault may be the primary cause of the pump stopping immediately after starting. Begin troubleshooting by checking the fuse box for blown fuses and then proceed to inspect the connections to ensure nothing is loose or damaged. In addition, an overloaded circuit can also prevent the pool pump from starting or cause it to shut off during operation. If the motor overheats and shuts off shortly after starting, it likely indicates an overloaded circuit. Therefore, it is important to ensure the correct voltage for your pump and to check the motor's vents to confirm that nothing is blocking the fan. For a seized motor, check if debris is the cause. A seized motor leads to irregular rotation of the pool pump's motor shaft. If the pump starts but doesn't run at full power and you hear a humming sound, you should check the capacitor. The capacitor initiates the pump with an electrical jolt. If this component needs to be replaced, it is recommended to hire a qualified pool pump specialist to perform the work.
2. The pool pump runs but has low water flow
Several factors can contribute to the pool pump not functioning optimally, including low water flow. The most common causes include a suction leak, a dirty pool filter, a faulty pressure gauge, or clogged strainer baskets. In the event of a blockage in the pump's suction line, check your filter gauge. If it shows 10 psi above the normal value, it is appropriate to clean the filter. Cleaning helps reduce pressure and restore the pump's flow. If there is air in the system, it likely comes from the skimmer or via a leak. Ensure that the water level in the pool is not too low and check the skimmer basket for any debris. It may be necessary to fill the skimmer basket with water and reseal it properly.
3. The pool pump is leaking
Two primary causes of leaking pool pumps are either 1) a faulty pump lid or 2) a defective shaft seal. Both of these components are relatively easy to replace. If your pump is leaking, locate any seals that need to be replaced. Detecting a leak from the pump lid can be challenging, as water often leaks out when the pump is turned off. Once the leak has been identified, focus on inspecting and repairing the lid itself and its O-ring. To check the O-ring for cracks, gently bend it and ensure it is well lubricated. If you detect cracks, it indicates that the O-ring is dried out and needs to be replaced immediately. If no cracks are observed, apply O-ring oil to improve the seal. Another area to review is the pump shaft seal. Check if water is running down the back of the seal plate, which indicates a leaking shaft seal. After determining that it is the shaft seal that needs to be replaced, ensure that you replace it with the correct shaft seal for your specific pump model.
4. The pool pump is sucking in air
If your pool pump is not functioning correctly, you should check if the pool pump is sucking in air. This can be due to several causes, such as a loose pump lid, a crack in the pump, a faulty threaded seal, defective O-rings, a leaking valve stem, and more. To address this, top up with water and monitor water levels regularly to prevent future incidents. You can also install a water level gauge to facilitate monitoring. If the problem persists, seek a more comprehensive solution.
5. A noisy pool pump
When your motor rattles, it indicates that your pool pump needs better water flow. Eliminating any blockages in the plumbing line and looking for air leaks can be helpful. However, if there is a high screeching sound, the pump may have bad bearings. In such cases, it is best to contact a professional to disassemble the motor and replace the bearings. If the problem is related to the motor, it is appropriate to hire a professional to resolve it. You can also consider cleaning the pool pump's impeller. If your pool pump is not working as it should and is too noisy due to vibrations, check the vibration pads. Since vibration pads are made of thick rubber, they can effectively dampen vibrations.
6. The pump basket doesn't fill with water
One reason the pump basket doesn't fill with water could be that the pool pump is sucking in air from somewhere. Another common cause is a clogged or dirty filter or pump basket. The most effective action if the pump basket doesn't fill with water is to fill the pump by blowing out the lines with water to remove all trapped air. Another simple solution is to thoroughly clean both the pump basket and the filter.
7. The pool pump makes a humming noise
If your pool pump makes a humming noise, this could be due to debris blocking the motor or an electrical problem, such as a faulty capacitor. In this scenario, your pool pump will not start, even if it is receiving power. To address this, turn off the pump and remove the screws from the pump housing. Pull out the pump unit and remove any gaskets from the impeller. If you find any debris, remove it and reassemble the pump.
Frequently asked questions
What are the parts of a pool pump?
A pool pump consists of several essential components: pump lid, strainer housing with basket, drain plug, pump housing with impeller, pool pump motor, and shaft.
What are the signs that a Pool Pump is about to die?
When a pool pump is nearing the end of its lifespan, it typically shows three clear signs: low pressure (psi) from your filter, leakage in the pool pump, and the pool pump continuously losing its flow.
