PRACTICAL TIPS FOR MAINTAINING POOL PUMPS AND MOTORS

Your pool pump and motor are the heart of your swimming pool, keeping water clean and circulating. Without proper maintenance, this essential equipment can quickly lose efficiency, leading to higher energy bills, costly repairs, and a shortened lifespan. Regular inspections, cleaning, and prompt repairs will not only improve performance but also maintain proper water flow, saving you money on costly replacements.

Inspecting and Cleaning the Pool Pump

Inspect and clean your pool pump weekly, with a more thorough maintenance routine every three to four months. During weekly checks:

1. Remove debris from the pump basket, skimmer, and filter.
2. Check for leaks, cracks, or loose fittings.
3. Listen for any unusual noises.
4. Ensure that the water flow is strong and steady.

For more in-depth maintenance, follow the proper steps for your specific filter type. First, always turn off the pump and open the air relief valve before working on it to prevent damage or injury.

1. Cleaning a Sand Filter: Backwashing is the primary cleaning method. Turn the multiport valve to “Backwash,” and run the pump until the water in the sight glass runs clear. To rinse, turn the valve to “Rinse” and run the pump for about 30 seconds. Finally, turn the valve back to “Filter” and restart the pump.
2. Cleaning a Cartridge Filter: Open the filter housing and carefully remove the cartridge. Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to rinse off dirt and debris from the pleats. For a deeper clean, soak the cartridge in a filter cleaning solution as per the product instructions. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any residue before placing it back in the housing and securing the lid.
3. Cleaning a DE Filter: Follow the same backwashing procedure as a sand filter, but be aware that DE filters may require more frequent backwashing. Turn off the pump and release pressure. Open the filter housing, remove the grid assembly, and rinse the grids with a hose. Soak them in a cleaning solution if necessary. After replacing the grids and securing the filter lid, turn the pump on and add the appropriate amount of DE powder through the skimmer.

Priming the Pool Pump

After cleaning your pump basket or if the pump has stopped circulating water, you may need to prime it. Priming ensures the pump housing is full of water, allowing it to create the suction needed to circulate pool water. Running a pump dry can cause it to overheat and damage the motor or seals.

How to Prime a Pool Pump

1. Turn off the pump to prevent injury.
2. Open the air relief valve on top of the filter to release any trapped air.
3. Fill the strainer pot by removing the lid and filling the basket housing with water using a bucket or hose.
4. Replace and seal the lid securely, ensuring the O-ring is properly seated and lubricated.
5. Turn on the pump. It should begin pulling water from the pool within a minute or two, indicated by a steady stream from the return jets.
6. Close the air relief valve once a steady stream of water flows from it.

Troubleshooting a Pump That Won’t Prime

If your pump is running but not priming, check the following:

1. Water Level: Ensure the water in your pool is high enough to cover the skimmer.
2. Loose Connections: Check all connections on the suction side for leaks that could be letting air in.
3. Clogged Impeller: With the pump off, inspect the impeller for any debris that might be blocking water flow.
4. Clogged Baskets: A full skimmer or pump basket can restrict water flow, preventing the pump from priming.

Pump Efficiency

An efficient pool pump should have a consistent, low hum. Unusual noises, vibrations, or weak water flow can indicate a problem.

Unusual Noises to Listen For:

1. Grinding or Screeching: May indicate a blockage or failing bearings.
2. Hum sound: A loud hum could signal motor problems or a clogged impeller.
3. Vibrating: Can be caused by a loose connection or an unlevel base.
4. Gurgling or Rattling: Often indicates air leaks in the suction lines.

Lubricating the Pump’s Moving Parts

Parts like O-rings and seals require lubrication to reduce friction and prevent wear, which helps maintain a tight seal and prevents leaks. Motor bearings also need lubrication to ensure longevity and efficient operation.

Types of Lubricants:

1. Silicone-based lubricants: Ideal for rubber or plastic components like O-rings and seals.
2. Petroleum-based lubricants: Best for metal parts, such as bearings.

Always check your pump manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct type of lubricant and the proper application frequency.

Conclusion

The best way to maintain your pool pump is through regular, proactive checks and cleaning. This includes emptying the pump basket, inspecting for leaks, and ensuring proper water flow. Setting seasonal reminders for tasks like cleaning the filter and checking the pump motor can save you from costly repairs down the line.