top of page
Writer's pictureSean Flanagan

How to Troubleshoot Your Swimming Pool Pump Not Working

Updated: Apr 17, 2023

If you're like most pool owners, you rely on your pool pump to keep your pool clean and functioning properly. So when your pool pump stops working, it can be a big problem! If your pool pump isn't working, you're probably wondering what to do. Don't worry - Sea Breeze Pools is here to help!

pump housing, common pool pump problems, air leak, motor shaft, pump lid, pump motor, water flow, ground pool pump

Does Your Pool System Need an Update?

 

Common Pool Pump Problems


Not everyone is a pool pump professional, and when you live in Central Florida, the excessive heat can really take its toll on your pool's circulation system. In this blog post, the pool maintenance experts from Sea Breeze Pools will walk you through some common causes of swimming pool pumps not working, as well as how to troubleshoot them. We'll also provide tips on how to prevent these problems from happening in the first place. Let's get started!


What is a Pool Pump?


A pool pump is a mechanical device that pulls water from your pool, sends it to the filter, and then pushes the clean water back into the pool.


The most common type of pool pump for older pools is a single speed pump. Most pumps nowadays are variable speed pumps. A variable speed pool pump is a type of pool pump that can adjust its speed to match the needs of your pool. This makes it more energy-efficient than a traditional pool pump and can also extend the life of your pool's filtration system.


If you are looking for more information about the different types of pool pumps, feel free to check out another one of our blogs: What Does a Pool Pump Really Do?


Check the Power Source of the Pool Pump


One of the most common reasons a pool pump stops working is that they're not getting enough power. This can be caused by a number of things, including a tripped breaker or a loose wire. If you suspect your pool pump isn't getting enough power, you should first check your home's electrical service panel to see if a breaker has tripped. If it has, simply reset the breaker and see if that solves the problem.


Inspect the Electrical Wiring


If your pool pump still isn't working after you've checked the electrical panel, the next step is to check for loose wires and blown fuses. Start by disconnecting the power to your pool pump at the circuit breaker. Then, remove the pool pump's access panel and inspect the wires for any signs of damage. If you see any damaged wires, they will need to be replaced.


Once you've checked the electrical panel and inspected the wires, you should be able to determine if your pool pump is getting enough power. If the wiring and fuses all look to be in good condition, check the pump switch to make sure it is operating properly.



Take a Look at the Pump Housing


If your pump is not experiencing any electrical connection issues, you need to inspect the pump assembly as a whole. You should hear a humming noise while the pool pump runs when the pump is on. You should be able to see that there is pressure building via the pressure gauge. Make sure the pump lid is fastened tightly to ensure there is not an air leak.


If the pump lid is on all the way, you may have an issue with the pump lid o-ring. The O-ring is made of soft plastic/rubber and can wear out faster than you would think in the hot Florida sun. Another thing to check is the suction lines and the shaft seal that is attached to the pump body.


Inspect the Pool Pump Impeller Housing


If your pool pump is getting enough power but still isn't working, the next step is to check the pool pump's impeller. The disc-shaped impeller is what moves the water through the pool pump, so if it's damaged or broken, the pool pump won't work. Check to make sure you don't have a clogged impeller. Turn off the power to your pool pump and remove the access panel. Once you have access to the impeller, inspect it for any damage. If you see any damage, the impeller will need to be replaced.


Check Out the Pool Pump Basket


If the impeller is not damaged, the next step is to check the pool pump basket. The strainer basket collects debris that can clog up the pool pump, so if it's full, it can cause the pool pump to stop working. Check the basket first, turn off the power to your pool pump, and remove the access panel. Once you have access to the potentially clogged skimmer basket, inspect it for any debris. If you see any debris, remove it and replace the skimmer basket.



Sea Breeze Pools: Swimming Pool Maintenance Help


If you've checked the electrical panel, inspected the wires, checked the impeller, checked the basket, inspected for air leaks, made sure you don't have a dirty pool filter, and your pool pump still isn't working, then it's time to call a professional. You may have a larger issue, like a damaged pool pump motor or a faulty air relief valve. Sea Breeze Pools has a team of experienced pool technicians who can help diagnose and fix any problems you're dealing with.


We hope this blog post has been helpful in troubleshooting your pool pump. Remember, if you ever have any questions or need help, Sea Breeze Pools is always here to help keep your pool water crystal clear and ready for swimming!

Call us at 407-385-2847 or fill out a contact form on our website for a free same-day quote from a pool technician.


 

Sea Breeze Pools services the following locations in Greater Central Florida:

コメント


bottom of page