If you are lucky enough to have a pool, you know it takes several pieces of equipment to keep it clean and healthy. One critical piece of equipment is your pool's pump. Whether you have an above-ground or below-ground pool, the pump is important. When it doesn't work, your pool can become a health hazard. Keep reading to learn more about signs of a bad pool pump and the common causes.
Signs of a Failing Pool Pump
Pool pumps usually show signs before they fail. Here are some of the signs your pump is about to go.
Noise
Strange humming, screeching, or grinding noises are signs of a problem. Other signs are if your pump is louder than usual or doesn't make any noise at all.
Pump Shuts Off
If your pump keeps shutting off on its own, then you may have an internal electrical problem. A bad pump may also trip breakers.
Pool Gets Dirty Fast
If your pool seems to get dirty quicker than usual or never seems to be clean, it could be due to your pump. It can also be due to other issues like a dirty filter.
Pump Leaks
Pumps are self-contained and should not leak. If a pool of water forms around your pump, then you may have a pressure-side leak.
Causes of a Failing Pool Pump
Knowing the cause of a bad pump can help you prevent future problems. Below is a list of common causes of a failing pool pump.
Age
While pumps are long-lasting, they don't last forever. If your pump is more than a decade old, have a professional check it out.
Poor Maintenance
Lack of maintenance, such as failure to remove debris or not vacuuming, can lead to pump failures. Another example is not cleaning out the pump pot basket can cause it to break.
Poor Water Flow
Your pump needs good water flow to keep it primed and running correctly. If your water level is too low or you have too much debris, your flow may not be sufficient. Poor suction from a leak near the pump can also cause priming problems.
Clogged Impellers
The impeller is the part that circulates the water. If debris gets past the basket, it could damage the impeller. Do not leave pool toys floating alone in the pool, and skim leaves and branches off the surface as much as possible.
When your pool's pump doesn't work well, it could lead to other problems with your pool. If you think you might have a pump problem, have a professional check it out. Your pump may only need repairs instead of replacement. Contact a pool equipment repair contractor for more information.
When your pool has seen better days, there are a lot of things you should do to take steps to remedy the situation. The right pool should be clean, crisp, and fun to use, and while this isn't always the case, the fact of the matter is that it is crucial to keep your water up-to-date so that it can always function in the best capacity possible.
The purpose of this website is to help other people to know when it is time to get their pool cleaned. By taking steps now, you can ensure a healthy, beautiful pool for longer, which could dramatically improve your chances of enjoying an excellent, spa-like experience.