The pump is the most damage-prone equipment in your swimming pool, which isn’t surprising considering that you’re supposed to run it at least eight hours each day.
Knowing that your pool pump is prone to damage, you need to take extra care of it to prolong its lifespan. Otherwise, you may need to have yours repaired or replaced sooner than you expect. Energy-efficient variable speed pumps can range from $800 to $1,400, so a replacement will burn through your finances.
Certain pool conditions hasten the wear and tear of your pool pump. As such, you want to make sure your pool is in tiptop shape to prevent pump problems from occurring in the first place.
Weber Pools, a commercial pool cleaning service provider in Dallas, lists the common causes of pump damage you need to avoid.
1. Clogged Skimmer Basket
Clogging is one of the most common causes of pool pump problems. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can clog the skimmer basket, causing the pump to slow down. If the basket is dislodged, the blockage can travel to the suction side of the pump, which will then restrict the pool’s water flow and create sanitation issues.
Remember to clean your strainer basket at least once weekly to ensure proper pump filtration. You only need to take the basket out, remove the debris caught inside, then replace it in its original position.
2. Missing O-Ring
After cleaning the pump basket, be sure to replace the O-ring. Many pool owners forget this step since the O-ring is small and easy to miss. However, you want to be careful of making this mistake.
The O-ring is responsible for preventing air and water from entering your filtration system. Without it, your pool filter will likely suffer from water and air leaks, which spell bad news for the pump.
3. Running the Pump Dry
Running your pump dry can cause a chain of pool problems. A dry pump will pull air instead of water, causing the impeller to spin rapidly. This results in overheating, which can melt the pump basket, blow out the shaft seal, and damage the strainer housing.
One of the most common reasons for a pump to run dry is improper sizing. A pump that’s too big for a pool causes cavitation, which forces the pump to move faster than the pipes can handle. This can weaken the internal components to the point of complete pump failure.
Make sure that your pool has enough water to keep your pump from running dry. Also, double-check that you’re using the right-sized pump, the drain plug is secured, and the pump lid is lubed and tightly placed.
4. Flooded pool pump
You need to keep your pool pump motor dry. Submerging the pump in water can cause electrical problems, such as loose connections or short circuits that could burn the pool motor.
Place your pool pump in an elevated area, one that has good drainage to prevent rainwater from collecting. Additionally, make sure that there’s no vegetation around your pool equipment. Overhanging branches and bushes can trap moisture and drip water on the pump.
You also want to dig out soil that has washed up near your pool equipment to prevent moisture from reaching the pump.
Keeping Your Pool Clean and Efficient
Efficiency is important to commercial pools because it helps keep operating costs down. To keep your pool running efficiently, you need to invest in a careful maintenance routine. Weber Pools, a certified pool operator in Dallas, offers pool maintenance services to commercial clients, helping you run your business smoothly.
We also provide pool repair services so you can maximize the lifespan of your pool equipment, making sure you don’t buy a replacement unless absolutely necessary.
Fill out our online form to get a quote on our commercial pool services.