7 Troubleshooting Tips for Your Pool Pump Not Working | AQUASTRONG

Having trouble with your pool pump? Don’t worry – many pool pump issues can be easily fixed with a little troubleshooting. If you’re experiencing problems, here are seven common pool pump issues and how you can resolve them to get your pool back in top shape.

1. The Pool Pump Isn’t Turning On or Shuts Off Immediately

If your pool pump isn’t turning on or it stops soon after starting, the issue is likely electrical. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

• Check your circuit breaker for any blown fuses or tripped switches.
• Inspect connections to ensure nothing is loose or damaged.
• If your motor is overheating and shutting down, it may be an overloaded circuit. Make sure your pool pump is receiving the correct voltage and that the motor’s ventilation is clear.
• If the motor shaft isn’t turning, debris could be jamming the motor. Inspect and clean as needed.
• Humming noise with no full operation? The capacitor could be malfunctioning. Replacing this part is often best left to a professional.

2. The Pool Pump Runs but Has Low Water Flow

If the pump seems to be working but isn’t circulating enough water, it may need to be primed. Here’s what you should check:

• Clogged Filter: A dirty pool filter can restrict flow. Check the filter gauge; if it’s 10 psi above normal, clean the filter to reduce pressure and restore water flow.
• Air in the System: Leaks in the system or a low water level in the pool can introduce air. Check the skimmer basket, o-rings, and reseal the strainer basket if necessary.
• Debris in the Pump: Check the pump basket and impeller for any obstructions.

3. The Pool Pump Is Leaking

Leaks in the pool pump are a common issue. If your pump is leaking, check these areas:

• Inspect o-rings in the impeller housing, the thread sealant, or the shaft seal for any signs of wear.
• Cracked O-rings: Bend the o-ring to check for cracks. If you find any, it needs to be replaced. If there are no cracks, apply some o-ring lubricant to create a better seal and extend the o-ring's life.

4. The Pump Is Sucking in Air

Air leaks can cause a number of issues, including reduced suction and low flow. Here's what to check:

• Loose pump lid: Ensure the lid is tightly sealed.
• Cracks or leaks in the pump housing.
• Faulty thread sealant or o-rings: These can lead to air entering the system.
• Suction line issues: Look for leaks or cracks in the plumbing on the suction side of the pump.

If you’re unable to spot the leak, a handy trick is to apply shaving cream around potential problem areas. If there’s a leak, the shaving cream will be sucked in, leaving an indentation.

5. The Pump Is Making Unusual Noise

Strange sounds coming from your pump can be a sign of underlying issues:

• Rattling noises: These may simply be due to poor water flow or air leaks. Clear any blockages in the plumbing lines to resolve the issue.
• High-pitched screeching: This sound could indicate bad bearings in the motor. While it’s recommended to call a professional for bearing replacement, you can sometimes try tapping the motor gently with a rubber mallet to loosen it temporarily.

6. The Pump Basket Isn’t Filling with Water

If your pump basket is not filling with water, you could be facing one of two issues:

• Air entering the system: Check the water level in your skimmer basket and look for any leaks in the system.
• Clogged pump basket: Make sure the basket is free of debris and clean the filter if necessary.

7. The Pool Pump Is Humming but Won’t Start

If you hear a humming noise but the pump won’t start, the motor might be receiving power but struggling to turn the impeller. To troubleshoot:

• Check for debris blocking the impeller. Turn off the pump, remove the housing screws, and clean any obstructions.
• Motor issues: A bad capacitor, worn centrifugal switch, or rust buildup could be causing the problem. In some cases, the impeller could be stuck, so inspect and clean accordingly.

3 Signs Your Pool Pump Needs Replacement

Even with regular maintenance, pool pumps have a limited lifespan. Here are three signs that your pump may need replacing:

1. Consistently Low PSI: If the pressure gauge on your filter is low even after cleaning, it could indicate that the impeller is wearing out.

2. Constant Leaks: If your pump is leaking regularly despite efforts to replace seals and o-rings, the motor shaft seal could be worn out, and it may be time to replace the entire pump.

3. Losing Prime Frequently: If you’ve followed the troubleshooting steps but your pump keeps losing prime, it could be due to warped parts or simply an indication that your pump needs replacement.