Paul's Plumbing Tips

How to Troubleshoot Common Problems With Your Home's Pool Pump

A pool pump is very important for the safe and enjoyable use of your pool; that pump is what pulls water through the filter or skimmer of the pool, so that the filter can remove debris and contaminants. The pump also works to keep water in the pool moving slightly, so that chlorine and other chemicals can circulate and clean all the water in the pool.

This is why it's good to check out any problems you're having with your home's pool pump as soon as they arise, so you know the pump is always in good repair and is functioning as it should. Note a few troubleshooting tips for your home's pool pump so you can address these problems on your own, or call a repairperson as needed.

Noise

Vibration and banging are usually the most common causes of noise from a pool pump, and these usually result from loose connections. When the pump is not securely connected to its base, it may tend to move as it operates, causing some thumping and bumping. This lack of a secure connection can also allow those vibrations to get worse, so that you hear a loud humming or buzzing sound from the pump. Check the pump's base for loose nuts and bolts that need tightening or replacing, or slide small bits of rubber between the pump and its base in order to keep it in place, if needed.

Water isn't being pulled

If you put your hand over the pool's filter or skimmer and don't feel any suction, this often means the filter itself is clogged or needs cleaning. Over time, mud, silt, sand, and other debris can build up around the pool's filter, slowing down that flow of water. Try cleaning or replacing the filter and see if this corrects the issue.

Another potential cause for this slowdown of the water flow is air in the pump itself. If the pump has a loose or worn gasket, tiny air bubbles can get into the motor of the pump; over time, these bubbles build up so that air blocks that flow of water. If the pump has a glass lid, you may be able to see these bubbles forming. If not, try bleeding the pump according to the directions in your owner's manual, to release that air. If these fixes don't work, you may need an electrician to replace worn wires or other electrical parts, or the entire pump itself.


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