Pool Pump Problems

Even though it’s not overly complicated, a pool pump is the most important component of any pool. Over time, the combination of heat and vibration will eventually create problems, even in the best of pumps.

When your pool pump is not working properly, it’s important to complete a timely repair. Common problems include loud noises, leaks, low pressure, and failure to pull water from the skimmer.

 

Pool Pump Problems

1. Pool Pump Not Working

If your pump operates for a while, then shuts off, it could be overheating. When this is the case, the pump often fails the most on hot days. An intermittent pump may also be because the motor’s fan failed or a vent is full of debris.

If the pump does not work at all, you likely have an electrical problem.

Solution

If your pump cuts out, remove any leaves, dirt, and other debris from the vents. Use a motor cover to prevent sunlight from overheating the pump since air ventilation is always required.

Check the power supply, voltage, and electricity for pumps that don’t run to ensure enough power is being received. If necessary, reset the circuit breaker that powers the pump.

If power is not the issue, listen for a humming noise while the pump’s switched on. If you hear one, then the capacitor may be to blame.

Any motor or electrical issue is best addressed by a qualified electrician.

2. Leaking Pool Pumps

If you notice a water leak on the pressure side of your pool (where the water enters the impeller, travels through the pump, and then exits through your pool equipment), the leak can be from several causes. These include improperly sealed threads, a damaged impeller housing, and faulty shaft seal o-rings.

Solution

Inspect your plumbing system for water pooling around or flowing out of the pump. If you find that your pool pump is leaking from the o-ring, it’s recommended that you replace every o-ring simultaneously.

 

pool pumps

 

3. Pool Pump Low Pressure

A clogged skimmer basket may be the problem when a pool pump displays a consistently low reading on its filter pressure gauge.

Solution

Clean out your skimmer basket. If you continue to experience low readings on your filter pressure gauge, your impeller may need replacing.

4. Pool Pump Not Pulling Water From Skimmer

Your filter or pump basket could be clogged or dirty when your pool pump basket isn’t filling with water. Being blocked with debris prevents your pump from pulling water efficiently (or at all).

A suction line leak may also cause a pump not to pull water.

Solution

Clean any debris from the filter, skimmer, and pump basket. Prime the pump. If the pool pump continues to fail to pull water from the skimmer, contact a pool professional to inspect the suction line.

5. Loud Pool Pumps

Depending on the pump type, pool pump noises can vary in volume. However, they typically remain within a specific sound range while circulating pool water and operating a motor – even throughout temperature regulation, debris buildup, and chlorine regulation.

If your pool pump noises are consistent, they do not indicate a problem. But if they seem to occur sporadically, more water may be necessary in the pump basket, your pool pump impeller may be clogged, or the vibration pads may need replacing.

Solution

Clean the pool pump impeller and basket of any debris creating a clog. Place a rubber mat underneath the pump to soften the vibrations.

 

How To Troubleshoot When Pool Pump Is Making Loud Noises

Some common causes and solutions for particular noises from loud pool pumps include:

Pool Pump Is Making Rattling Noise

If your pool pump is making a rattling noise, the pump may be vibrating on the surface it sits on. Although vibration pads prevent pool pump vibrations from travelling into your pool base, they can wear out over time.

Another reason for a rattling pool pump is cavitation. This occurs when the pump is starved of water, resulting in a noisy motor.

Solution

Properly secure the motor to its base. If the vibration pads are worn down, replace them with new ones or place a rubber mat underneath to lessen the vibrations.

Correct cavitation by removing debris from the skimmer, suction strainer, and suction pipe.

Pool Pump Is Making Loud Whining Noise

A loud whining noise from a pool pump can mean worn or damaged bearings. The more the pump ages, the louder the sound will get until the motor eventually burns out.

Solution

Contact a pool professional to replace the bearings. Although the bearings are relatively inexpensive, the labour involved with taking the pump and motor apart can be substantial.

 

 

Pool Pump Is Making Loud Humming Noise

A loud humming noise from a pool pump can indicate debris buildup or a capacitor problem.

Solution

Inspect the impeller for any clogs by completing the steps below:

1. Turn the pump off, then remove the screws on the pump housing.
2. Remove the pump assembly and gasket from the impeller.
3. Take out any debris that you can view.
4. Reassemble the pump.

If your pool pump continues to make a loud humming noise, it’s best to hire a professional.