Swimming Pool Pump & Motor Tips & Tricks

Understanding Your Pool Pump: The Heart of Your Pool System
Think of the pool pump as the heart of your swimming pool. Just as your heart circulates blood throughout your body, your pool pump circulates water throughout the pool, helping maintain clarity, cleanliness, and chemical balance.
How Your Pool Pump Works
Your pump pulls water from two primary locations:
• The pool skimmer
• The main drain or side drain
It then pushes the water through the pool’s filtration and sanitation systems before returning it to the pool.
A typical pool pump consists of two key components:
• The wet end (pump pot) – where water collects before entering the pump.
• The motor – powers the pump to move water through the system.
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Types of Pool Pump Motors
Pool pump motors come in a few configurations:
• Single-speed motors – Now largely banned for pool use due to inefficiency.
• Dual-speed motors
• Variable-speed motors (VSPs) – The most energy-efficient option.
Why Choose a Variable-Speed Pump?
Due to recent Department of Energy regulations, variable-speed pumps have become the industry standard. Benefits include:
• Energy efficiency – They use less electricity, especially when running at lower speeds (RPMs).
• Cost savings – Second only to your air conditioner, your pool pump is one of the biggest energy users in your home. A VSP can dramatically lower your electricity bill.
• Better for your equipment – Running the pump slower for longer can reduce wear and tear on other parts of your system.
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Common Pool Pump Problems and Fixes
Here are the most frequent issues you might encounter—and how to address them:
1. Pump Won’t Prime
If your pump can’t draw water properly, try checking:
• Water level – Low pool water is the most common cause. Top it off!
• Clogged pump basket – Clear out any debris.
• Clogged impeller – Remove the pump lid and check behind the basket.
• Worn or stretched O-ring – Replace and lubricate it to ensure a proper seal.
• Air leaks – Inspect plumbing around the pump for any signs of air getting in.
• Forgot to refill pump with water – Always fill the pump pot with water after cleaning the basket.
2. Unusual Noises or Loud Motor
• This could mean the motor bearings are failing.
• If the motor is excessively loud or sounds “off,” it may need to be repaired or replaced.
3. Pump Doesn’t Start (Buzz and Click Sound)
• This is often due to a burned-out motor or a faulty capacitor (start or run capacitor may need replacing).
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Basic Pool Pump Maintenance Tips
To keep your pump running smoothly:
• Check and empty the skimmer basket regularly
• Clean the pump basket to prevent clogging
• Listen for unusual motor sounds
• Maintain proper water level – Running your pump with low water can overheat and damage the motor
Pro tip: The number one reason for motor burnout is running the pump with low pool water!