Pool Pump Troubleshooting

/ Above Ground Pools, Inground Pools, Pool Pumps

Pool Pump Troubleshooting

Got a pool pump problem? Why not try troubleshooting it yourself? Check out these common pool pump problems and how to address them. First, let's go over the parts of a pump and what they are.

Parts of a Pool Pump

  • Pump Lid: This allows you to inspect the health of your filter, and it's made of bulletproof window material. If you notice bubbles or lack of water while the pump is going, you could have an air leak on the lid o-ring or on the suction side of your pool.
  • Strainer Housing with Basket: This is where debris is collected before it hits the drivetrain.
  • Drain Plug: Use this to drain water during winterization.
  • Pump Housing with Impeller: This is the main control center that houses the impeller, diffuser, and seals, spinning on a motor shaft to get the water from your pool to your filter.
  • Pool Pump Motor and Shaft: This spins the impeller.

Issues You May Be Having With Your Pool Pump

Here are some common pool pump issues.

  1. Problems turning on, or turning off shortly after.
  • If your pump fails to turn on OR shuts off right after starting, an electrical problem is to blame. Check for blown fuses and then check for loose connections.
  • If your motor overheats, an overloaded circuit is to blame. Determine if you have the proper voltage for your pump and make sure nothing is blocking the fan.
  • If the pump motor shaft fails to rotate, the motor could be loaded with debris.
  • If the pump turns on but you hear a humming noise, the capacitor could be the culprit.
  1. The pool pump does run but with low water flow.
  • Your pump will have to be primed because something is blocking the suction, such as a dirty filter or too much air.
  • If something is blocking the suction, check the filter gauge. You may have to clean your filter to reset the pump's flow. Look for debris in the pump basket and impeller.
  • If too much air is in the system, it's likely coming from the skimmer or a leaking o-ring. The water level shouldn't be too low, and you'll also want to check the skimmer for debris.
  1. The pump is leaking.

Check for any seals that need replacement. Cracks in the o-ring mean it has dried out and requires replacement. If no cracks are present, add some lubricant.

  1. The pump sucks in air.

This may be due to:

  • Faulty thread sealant
  • Leaky valve stem
  • Loose pump lid
  • Crack in pump
  • Failing o-rings and gaskets
  • Air leaks in the suction line
  1. The pump is noisy.

If you hear a rattle in your motor, the pump needs better water flow. Clear blockages in the plumbing line and check for air leaks. If you hear a high-pitched screeching sound, bad bearings could be to blame.

  1. The pump basket doesn't fill with water.

The pump may be taking in air or you could have a clogged filter or pump basket. First, clean the pump basket and filter, then check the skimmer's water level.

Look for debris in the impeller. Switch off the pump and take out the screws as part of the pump housing. Take out the pump assembly and move gaskets away from the impeller. Remove any debris present and put everything back together.

Hear a buzzing or humming noise originating from the pump motor? While power is indeed getting to the motor, it's not enough to start it. A bad capacitor, centrifugal switch, stuck impeller, or rust could all be to blame.

Signs Your Pump is On Its Way Out

Your pump should last up to 10 years with maintenance. But your pump may be on the fritz if:

1. It's always leaking.

The motor shaft seal is worn out, which you could replace first and see if that works before buying a new pool pump.

2. The filter has a constantly low PSI.

A clogged skimmer basket or pump strainer could be the issue if the pressure gauge is lower than normal. If it happens over and over, the impeller could just be wearing out. It will need replacement.

3. It always loses prime.

If you are having problems keeping your pump primed, this could be due to warped parts. You'll need a whole new pump in this case.

Still having trouble with your pool pump after heeding these tips? Perhaps you don't want to tackle these issues yourself and prefer to hire someone to do it right. We can help. Call Central Jersey Pools and we will come out to inspect your pool pump, determine, the problem, and let you know the best course of action.

 

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