What to Do About 5 Common Pool Pump Problems
The pump is one of the most vital parts of a backyard pool plumbing system. It drives water through the filter, which helps to keep it clean. As pumps have to work so hard, they frequently develop problems. Here are five of the most common issues, along with advice on what to do if you experience them.
1. Pump Not Pulling Water
If your pump is failing to pull water out of the pool and through the filter, the skimmer may be blocked with leaves or other debris. A dirty filter can also be a reason for pumps not pulling water.
Check the skimmer and filter to ensure they are both clear and clean. If cleaning these parts does not restore your pump's ability to pull water, the suction line might have a leak. The best solution to a suction line leak is to call a trusted pool contractor, as suction lines can be difficult to access and repair.
2. Pump Leaking Water
Pump leaks are often due to corrosion affecting the seals or o-rings that connect the pump to the adjacent parts in the plumbing system. You will notice water pooling around the pump or flowing from it.
If you are confident that you can take the pump apart and put it back together without damaging it, you can quickly and easily replace the seals yourself. You can buy rebuild kits for most pump models that contain the necessary selection of seals and o-rings.
3. Motor Not Working
If your pool pump motor refuses to run, it could be lacking a power supply. Check the circuit breaker for the circuit that powers the pump and reset it if necessary.
If the power supply is working correctly, put your ear close to the pump while it is switched on. If it makes a humming noise but does not run, the capacitor could be faulty and in need of replacement. Let a professional carry out this replacement to ensure your safety.
4. Motor Cutting Out
Perhaps your problem is that your pool pump motor runs for a while, but then shuts off, which causes the pump to stop working. One common cause of this problem is the motor overheating. You might notice that the pump fails most often on hot days.
This problem can be difficult to solve. You could try cleaning the vents on the underside of the motor to allow more airflow to cool the overheating component. Another option is to install a motor cover to prevent direct sunlight from causing overheating.
If you cannot solve the problem, you can either resolve to run your pump at night when the temperature is lower, or call a pool contractor to investigate the issue.
5. Noisy Pump
Noisy pumps can do a good job of cleaning your pool, but they sure are annoying! If the pump makes a rattling noise, you might be able to solve the problem simply by sticking a rubber mat underneath it to dampen the vibrations.
If the pump makes a screaming or whining noise, consider it a warning that the bearings in the motor are close to wearing out. Bearings are cheap to buy, but taking the pump and motor apart to replace them can be tricky, particularly if you do not have the right expertise. The best way to deal with a screaming pump is to contact a contractor that specialises in pool pump repairs.