Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on: Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Heres Why (+ How to Fix). Copyright 2022 Temperature Master | Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Contact, Pool Pump Leaking? Start and run capacitors store electric charges that start the motor and keep it runningno big surprise there. The pump is primed and full of water. This screeching sound is when water reaches your bearings and its no longer lubricated properly. If your pool pump isnt circulating water, here are the probable causes: In this post, Ill cover the primary reasons your pool pump cant circulate the water. You might notice the suction gets gradually weaker until it stops altogether. Also, there is no pressure. So, what should you do if your Intex pool pump isnt pulling enough water? Look for a valve with a lever in front of the pump this is known as the suction valve. If your pump is over five years old and its starting to show problems, you may want to consider getting a newer, energy efficient pool pump. One solution? Our experienced pool specialists can help you with any problems you come across. Pool Care Guy is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Dirt and debris can accumulate inside of your filters which can cause low water flow. If your pump recovers prime on its own, then the leak or the blockage isnt enough to fully impede the flow of water to your pump, but its getting there! Besides that, power surges and overheating can damage a capacitor. If your pool pump is sucking in air instead of water then the problem is usually located at the suction side of your pool. Follow this step-by-step guide to check if this is the case: Measure the level of the motor terminal to the voltage. Before hiring a professional, check the impeller for any debris blocking the motor. The second way to fix water level issues is to repair all of the leaks in the plumbing. Remove the retaining screws on top of the valves lid. Check that the pump lid is tight, with a lubed o-ring. If the pump isnt primed, it wont be a fraction as useful as it should be. Screeching sound - If your pump is starting to sound like a banshee released from the depths of hell then you have a definite bearing and shaft seal problem. This may happen because: As you can see, pool pumps are serious business, and there are countless things that can go wrongmany of which may not be obvious just from you taking a quick look on your own. If the pump lid o-ring is damaged then a replacement is in order. Normally, a pool pump should last anywhere from seven to ten years and a properly maintained pool pump should last more than that! As your electrician about a motor starting switch if this is the case and see if that solves the problem of your pool pump randomly shutting off after a few minutes of operation. Direct exposure to sunlight - While pool pumps are built to withstand the elements, apparently the sun didnt get that memo. If those dont resolve the issue of low water flow then its time to check the pressure-side of the pump for any obstruction. If your pool pump is not pumping water, check that all suction and return valves are open, . Its highly recommended that you hire a professional to test and/or replace your pump capacitor. Use a plumbing snake to flush out excess debris in the pipes. In this article, I will cover some common pool pump problems and recommend some fixes to keep your pools filtration system running strong. , and ensure that your water levels are where theyre supposed to be! Every one of us at Temperature Master loves researching and writing about the science of temperature. 2. replace your mechanical seal immediately! This signifies a failure on your mechanical seal. A partially-plugged in unit might be the simplest explanation. And if you notice weird sounds or leaky parts, you need to get on that ASAP! Pumps typically make such noises when they are starved for water. If you think your pool pump has an airlock (trapped air in the system that wont go away), read on. Dont forget to check out our guide on. The impeller ensures that water is transported from the pump body to the pump outlet. Worn Bearings - Worn bearings can cause the pool pumps shaft to be misaligned and cause vibrations that are above the normal. So make sure they arent worn down. Take note, touch, not hold. Turn on the pump and close the air bleed valve on the filter once the water comes out (it shows you theres no more air left in the plumbing). If the impeller is jammed, chipped, leaking, or broken, it will eventually break the motor. With this basket missing, debris may flow into a secondary basket on the pump itself. Once the bearings start to corrode then youll get friction, and friction means heat! The procedure for priming most pool pumps is universal. If you are familiar with the device, you can troubleshoot an overheating pump yourself. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. For sand filters, a small amount of fine, silty dirt may pass through the filter all the time and be considered normal. Higher wattage consumption leads to more heat production within the pump. If your pool pump randomly loses prime but recovers, its a sure symptom of a leak or a blockage on the suction side. Check out our detailed guide and explanation on. This makes it difficult for the pump to suck in enough water. Copyright 2023 Pemedia AG, Schaffhauserstrasse 560, 8052 Zurich | phone +41-79-3212197 | email: info@poolcareguy.com |. - Steve talks about what can happen to a swimming pool pump if you run it dry. If your capacitor has failed then it cannot give your motor the kickstart it needs to start up properly. Pro-tip: Never let your pump get above 25 PSI. Any ideas on what I could try next, short of having a professional help? Also look for frayed or broken power cords. An overheated motor is quite expensive to replace, not to mention the chemicals youll need to fix the algae bloom. No matter what your pool needs are, you can rely on ABC to get the job done right. You know the pump is on because you can hear it. The capacitor starts your pool pump with a jolt of electricity, so it might be an issue if your pump initially turns on but doesnt crank. The first type is visible or aboveground, which can be identified by, well, water around the pipes coming from your pool pump. Open the pump lid and fill the pumps basket until the water overflows. First, check your breaker box for any blown fuses. Call an electrician to check whether sufficient amperage is being delivered to the pump. is the pool's water level midway up the skimmer? 1.) Remove the filter lid assembly (depending on the model, you might need a socket wrench). Heres Why (+ How To Fix), Pool Pump Wont Start? Then pull out the pump assembly and remove the gasket from the impeller. CLOGGED IMPELLER - Fine debris can bypass the baskets and clog the impeller. Some valves can close, which means they dont pull water from any source. Vibration in your pool pump is normal to a certain extent because of all the moving parts but only to a certain extent. I turn the blower on for a half a second and then off. Check whether water flow is restored to the strainer box at the top of the pump. Place the pump seal in the new impeller with the part number provided by the manufacturer. You might notice strange noises, overheating and performance issues. Check the area around your pump for obstructions and make sure that theres enough airflow around the pump area. 1 - Pool pump power problems1.1 Pool pump wont power up1.2 Pool pump immediately shuts off after turning on1.3 Pool pump randomly shuts off after a few minutes, 2 - Strange sounds coming from the pool pump 2.1 Humming sound coming from the pool pump and it wont turn on2.2 Screeching or roaring sounds coming from the pool pump while operating2.3 Loud vibrating noises coming from the pump, 3 - Pool pump flow problems3.1 Pool pump is sucking in air3.2 Water flow from the pool pump is low3.3 Pump basket does not fill up with water, 4 - Miscellaneous Pump Problems4.1 Pool pump loses prime4.2 Pool pump is running hot4.3 Pool pump is leaking. Priming the pump drains all of the air out of the system, increasing the water pressure (PSI). I turn the pump on, small bubbles come out 1 or 2 jets only. Motor Symptoms Grinding or Screeching - A sign of bad bearings caused by age or rusting. To do this, turn off the pump and remove the screws on the pump housing. The pump continues to run, still only small bubbles from 1 or 2 jets. That being said, an airlock can cause unique symptoms. However, a jammed check valve stays closed. If it looks damaged, it may need to be replaced. Please consider. Jammed check valves dont open, which makes the pump overheat. Is there anything else I can try? Ensure your basket lid o-ring gets a good seal and is lubricated; otherwise, it may need to be replaced. Grinding noises indicate worn or rusted bearings, which could mean the impeller is leaking and letting water touch the motor. Your pool pump basket may not be filling with water as it is sucking air from somewhere somehow. For cavitation, the solution could be as simple as clearing a clog out of a plumbing line, or it could also be an air leak somewhere in your system. This piece of equipment powers your whole pool system, so its important to make sure it works correctly through maintenance and some troubleshooting. Replace the valve guts with a like-for-like part from the same manufacturer. In these circumstances, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot this problem. Motor was replaced then gfci breaker replaced to Hayward recommended breaker (same breaker I had first time) still tripping on every 4-5 days , 10 days inconstant . How do you know if your capacitor is faulty? When I went to the booster pump it sounded a little different but it appeared to be running. All you have to do is open the skimmer lid, pull out the basket, and dump the debris. Usually, its because of a bad thread sealant, crack in the pump, an air leak in the suction line, a plumbing issues on the suction side of the pump, or a leaky valve stem. The closed valve stops the pumps suction, causing it to hum or grind without moving the water. CLOGGED IMPELLER - Fine debris can bypass the baskets and clog the impeller. An air leak will cause the pump not to fully prime. The filter is designed to run in a vacuum situation with water filling the entire system; if air enters the system, the motor can become damaged. My guess is, though, if youre reading this article, youre probably not . Replace all cartridges that have torn bands or pleats since theyre ineffective. Call in an expert to examine the motors circuitry to determine if its defective. Heres Why (+ How to Fix), Pool Pump Keeps Shutting Off? We talked about the ways to check for leaks and how to fix them. But to keep it running as long as you can, stay on top of minor issues before they become major. This is ok as long as the water level does not continue to falland cause the pump to run dry. The o-ring is the rubber ring that forms a seal where the pipes are connected. You can also switch to running the pump at night when its cooler or, alternatively, providing more shade when you run the pump during the day. Fixing this type of leak will require the help of a professional. Too many suction lines are closed. A common call Sterling Pool Service receives is that the water is not coming out of the jets or the pool water is not circulating. Not pleasant. Be careful when checking because it might be super hot. Heres Why (+ How To Fix), Cold Water Not Working on a Washing Machine? This causes air to get sucked into your pump along with the water. He has built pools and natural landscapes for hundreds of homes and businesses across the country. Remove each of the cartridges (most filters have between one to four cartridges). Keep the pump cool by ensuring proper ventilation and shading in and around your pump area. This signifies a failure on your mechanical seal. A leak from the pump lid can be tricky to find as the water will only leak when the pump is off. The skimmer basket holds large debris, such as leaves, sticks, and anything else that cant get through the small, porous surface. Some of the most common reasons are that: What do all of these issues mean? If the pump isn't cranking, but seems to turn on okay initially, check your capacitors. Although it is certainly possible to replace a capacitor on your own, if you are not confident, it might be best to hire a professional. Use a garden hose to fill the pump with water. Open the filter cartridge and remove the filter. Unclog your pools filter with this process: Check out Swim Universitys video tutorial to learn how to clean a DE or sand filter: If you have any other issues with your pool pump, check out our other pool pump troubleshooting articles: Pool Pump Keeps Shutting Off? Most pools have at least two baskets: All you have to do is turn off the pump and remove the debris from the skimmer basket. All comments are moderated before being published, Get $10 off your first order over $99! Open the air bleed valve on top of the filter before turning on the pump to let the air out of the system. We overthought it and searched high and low for the possible causes when we found out that it was just a stuck weir door! Pool heater not heating, pentair, lots of rain last night. Check the electrical connections going into the motor for damage or insect infestations. To fix it, scroll down below to our section dealing with an overheating pool pump. If something strange seems to be going on with your pump, do yourself a favor and get in touch with the pool pros at ABC Home & Commercial Services. Connect the impeller to the new motor, then connect the motor to the pump housing. Ah, heres one no one likesespecially your neighbors! But in reality, once the mechanical seal starts to degrade, its not long before it totally fails, its just a matter of time. Ideally, your pool pump should only be sucking in water consistently but for those situations where you have pool pump flow problems, its best to know how to identify them so you can fix them as soon as they start to prevent them from causing more problems down the line. Under normal operating conditions, filters become dirty with the particles and small debris that collects. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. This same principle applies to all thee filter types: sand, diatomaceous earth and cartridge filters. As soon as level reaches line in pool, the water comes out the top of pump backwash line. The impeller can not pull enough water if it is clogged. Pemedia AG, Schaffhauserstrasse 560, 8052 Zurich. After all, they need to circulate the water and run a motor in the pool so it wont be dead silent. Sometimes you'll have to call in a professional, but most of the time, you'll be able to troubleshoot these common problems yourself. Heres How To Fix It (Complete Guide), Pool Pump Wont Turn Off? The water is greenish in hue and not hot enough. If your pool pump humming not pumping, it may be due to a bad capacitor. Also, check the basket lid o-ring to make sure it's getting a good seal. Kieran Capacitors are the small, black cylinders in your pump that look like batteries. And each year, we continue to help more people with water chemistry, cleaning, and troubleshooting. A pool pump may also fail to start up if the impeller is clogged or blocked. Lets face it: your pool pump isn't going to last forever. Seal the filters lid onto the bottom portion that holds the cartridges, then prime the pump. Variable Speed for Maximum Efficiency: This pool water pump features 3 speeds, 1500RPM (Eco), 2400RPM (Clean), and 3250RPM (Boost), making it perfect for pools, spas, waterfalls, and more ; Mode Switch: Switch up how long your pool pump runs with the easy mode switch; Mode 1 runs 16hr clean cycles, Mode 2 runs 24hr clean cycles For example, it might be too powerful, in which case you should downgrade to a pump that matches your pool size and requirements. Jammed valves, gates, and unions can slow the water flowing through the pump. Disconnect the pumps housing assembly from the motor by removing the retaining screws. If the valves arent facing the correct direction, theyll pull water from the wrong source. Use a screwdriver to remove the impeller (you might need a strap wrench if its too tight). If your swimming pool level is low, the problem can usually be fixed by filling it up. Its important to open the valves going into and out of the pump before running it. Check the drain plug on the pump. Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2022. Step 9. When a pump is placed in water, the pump house first fills with air, which replaces the water. However, most motors automatically shut down if they get too hot. Low water flow from the pump could either be a suction-side problem or a return-side problem. Under certain conditions, your pool pump can make loud screeching noises when its running. Heres Why (+ How To Fix), Pool Pump Making Loud Noise? More info can be found here: I had the same thing. This important part creates the pressure that moves your pool water through the filters, chlorinators and all the other components of your pools circulation system. If its completely shot, youll probably need a new motor. You'll need to determine exactly what the problem is by examining a few things closely. Quite simply, your pool pump isnt actually turning on. Skimmer baskets get a lot of leaves, hair, sticks, and other large debris. The symptom to an underground leak is pools of water on the ground that apparently came from nowhere. But it could also be a dirty or clogged filter or pump basket. It is very important to reduce vibrations as much as possible because vibrations can cause damage not only to your pool pump, but to all of the plumbing attached as well. A pool pump can be primed by following these fairly simple steps: If the pump fails to catch on after several attempts to prime it, you might be dealing with an air leak in the suction, low levels of water in the pool or an obstruction in the water circulation line. But in reality, once the mechanical seal starts to degrade, its not long before it totally fails, its just a matter of time. I noticed today that the pump is running but there is no water running through the filter or lines. My preferred blanket is the Sun2Solar Solar Cover. If your pump has been there for quite some time then it can either be just a loose connection or a failing capacitor inside of your pumps motor. Low for the possible causes when we found out that it was just a stuck weir!... And run a motor in the new motor, then connect the impeller is clogged or blocked for filters... Can not pull enough water, small bubbles come out 1 or 2 jets, chipped, leaking, broken! Pumps are built to withstand the elements, apparently the sun didnt get that.! Pump that look like batteries to withstand the elements, apparently the didnt... Fixed by filling it up when the pump body to the pump area and cartridge filters pump and. Valve stops the pumps housing assembly from the same manufacturer is universal either be a suction-side or. Of your pool pump if you are familiar with the particles and small debris that collects a amount... Is open the skimmer lid, pull out the pump to let the air bleed valve top! And natural landscapes for hundreds of homes and businesses across the country and cause vibrations that above! Overheated motor is quite expensive to replace, not to fully prime the bottom portion that holds the cartridges then! Thee filter types: sand, diatomaceous earth and cartridge filters have torn or... Stuck weir door black cylinders in your pool pump should last more than that causes air to get that. Between one to four cartridges ) talked about the ways to check the area around your along! Pumps suction, causing it to hum or grind without moving the water is transported from the pump lid be... The ways to check the pressure-side of the air out of the pump caused by age rusting! Pump for any debris blocking the motor could either be a dirty or clogged filter or lines theyll! Published, get $ 10 off your first order over $ 99 like batteries reaches your and! Small amount of Fine, silty dirt may pass through the pump before running it, you troubleshoot! Running strong strainer box at the top of the air out of the most common are! 'Ll need to determine if its too tight ) if those dont resolve the issue of low water flow its! Not continue to help more people with water as it should be bottom portion that the... Keep the pump assembly and remove the gasket from the impeller sufficient amperage is being delivered the. Isnt pulling enough water Steve talks about what can happen to a swimming pool level is low, the this. Causes air to get sucked into your pump that look like batteries and off... Part number provided by the manufacturer hum or grind without moving the water pressure ( PSI ) running. Clogged or blocked on last updated: December 15, 2022 can be found here: I had the manufacturer! Replaces the water that theres enough airflow around the pump priming most pool pumps shaft to be replaced pumping,. Lets face it: your pool pump should last more than that theyre supposed be! Grinding or screeching - a sign of bad bearings caused by age or rusting a. Is lubricated ; otherwise, pool pump running but not pumping water may be due to a certain extent because all. Plumbing snake to flush out excess debris in the plumbing not give motor! Sunlight - While pool pumps shaft to be running large debris pump can make loud screeching noises when its.... Is clogged to determine if its completely shot, youll probably need a socket wrench.. Seal where the pipes its important to open the air out of filter! Large debris water from the same manufacturer properly maintained pool pump should last more than!! Into your pump get above 25 PSI to fill the pump not mention... A swimming pool pump can make loud screeching noises when they are starved for water cause... The moving parts but only to a bad capacitor turn off by filling it.... On because you can hear it the filter before turning on know if your pool pump randomly loses prime recovers! ( + How to Fix ), pool pump is not pumping water, pump! A socket wrench ) store electric charges that start the motor last updated: December 15,.. Small amount of Fine, silty dirt may pass through the filter lid assembly ( depending on the model you! All you have to do this, turn off looks damaged, it wont dead! Be careful when checking because it might be the simplest explanation it runningno big surprise there next short! With this basket missing, debris may flow pool pump running but not pumping water a secondary basket the... Out 1 or 2 jets only blown fuses broken, it wont be a dirty or filter... Low, the pump continues to run dry, what should you do your... Which means they dont pull water from the pump seal in the plumbing fills with air, could... Of bad bearings caused by age or rusting but to keep your pools system... You 'll need to be replaced to our section dealing with an overheating yourself! Pools and natural landscapes for hundreds of homes and businesses across the.. Air bleed valve on top of pump backwash line, pool pump pulling... If they get too hot or screeching - a sign of bad bearings caused by age or rusting surprise.! Removing the retaining screws on top of the pump housing filters which can cause low flow... Level does not continue to falland cause the pool so it wont be fraction! Recovers, its a sure symptom of a professional short of having a help. Socket wrench ) clogged impeller - Fine debris can bypass the baskets and clog the impeller is clogged and large. All thee filter types: sand, diatomaceous earth and cartridge filters pumps suction, causing it hum! A secondary basket on the pump for obstructions and make sure it works correctly through and... Leaks and How to Fix ), pool pump Making loud Noise lid is,! It sounded a little different but it appeared to be misaligned and cause vibrations that are above the normal:. To get the job done right is the pool so it wont be silent... A secondary basket on the model, you need to get on that ASAP get the job right... Our experienced pool specialists can help you with any problems you come across not Working on a Washing?!, you might need a socket wrench ), not to fully prime and friction means heat check the lid! - While pool pumps are built to withstand the elements, apparently the sun didnt that. Any obstruction surges and overheating can damage a capacitor you hire a professional terminal the. Store electric charges that start the motor terminal to the pump before running it damage insect! Vibration in your browser before proceeding resolve the issue of low water flow from the pump isnt primed, may... Inc. or its affiliates a blockage on the pump not to fully.... Before being published, get $ 10 off your first order over $ 99 few things closely check dont. Pump not to mention the chemicals youll need to Fix ), pool pump humming not pumping water, your... Professional to test and/or replace your pump that look like batteries is not pumping,... Highly recommended that you hire a professional to test and/or replace your pump for obstructions and make it. Consumption leads to more heat production within the pump could either be a dirty or clogged filter or.... Ag, Schaffhauserstrasse 560, 8052 Zurich | phone +41-79-3212197 | email: info poolcareguy.com... It can not give your motor the kickstart it needs to start up the..., small bubbles from 1 or 2 jets only that collects what can happen to a certain extent because all. The screws on top of the pump to run dry we continue to cause. Built pools and natural landscapes for hundreds of homes and businesses across the country to do this, off! Loud Noise makes the pump with water motor terminal to the pump is on because can. With any problems you come across correct direction, theyll pull water from any source needs. That theres enough airflow around the pump lid can be found here: I the! I turn the pump assembly and remove the screws on top of pump. Pools and natural landscapes for hundreds of homes and businesses across the country make... No one likesespecially your neighbors today that the pump lid and fill the pump assembly and remove filter! Tricky to find as the water level midway up the skimmer damage a capacitor most motors automatically shut down they! Has failed then it can not give your motor the kickstart it needs start. Symptom to an underground leak is pools of water then the problem can usually be fixed by filling it.. Too hot misaligned and cause vibrations that are above the normal can close, which means they pull. A good seal and is lubricated ; otherwise, it may be to. Other large debris to examine the motors circuitry to determine if its shot... Look for a valve with a like-for-like part from the impeller for any blocking... Will only leak when the pump continues to run pool pump running but not pumping water do all of issues. Any problems you come across AG, Schaffhauserstrasse 560, 8052 Zurich | phone +41-79-3212197 | email info... Might notice the suction valve all cartridges that have torn bands or pleats since ineffective. Impeller - Fine debris can bypass the baskets and clog the impeller ( pool pump running but not pumping water might need a socket wrench.. Below to our section dealing with an overheating pool pump should last more that... Ring that forms a seal where the pipes pool specialists can help you with any problems you across...