|
If pumps are the hearts of pools’ circulatory systems, then pool motors are the hearts of the hearts. They are literally the engines that drive pools’ heating and filtration systems. However, the maintenance of pool motors is often overlooked until there is a major problem. Here are some tips on fixing the most common little problems with pool motors so that you can keep them from becoming big problems.
First, you should know that there is a time after which pool motors cannot be fixed, but instead must be replaced. Pool motors usually last eight to ten years before they must be rebuilt or replaced. Noisy, screeching front or rear bearings will let you know that it’s time to replace your motor. Noisy pool motors – loud screeching noises – are generally caused by damaged bearings. The bearings are inside of the motor and cannot be re-packaged or lubricated; they must be replaced. Most local motor shops can do the job relatively cheaply. Pool owners often complain about pool motors that won’t turn on only to find out that the problem lies not with their motors but with their sources of power. So, if your motor won’t turn on, first check the power. Make sure the breakers have not been flipped and that the time clock and all appropriate switches are on. Check that all electrical connections are in order – clean and tightly fastened. If the problem isn’t with the power, then the pool motor has probably shorted out and should be replaced. Sometimes pool motors hum, but don’t start. If this is the case with your motor, the impeller may be clogged. Turn off the motor and spin the impeller shaft manually. If it won’t freely turn, then it is probably clogged. Remove the motor from the pump and clean the impeller. If the impeller shaft does spin, then check the motor’s capacitor, which is usually the black cylinder on the end of the motor. If not, look for a silver cylinder mounted on the top of the motor. Check the capacitor for white residue, oily discharge or bulging. If you notice any of these things, the capacitor needs to be replaced. Be sure to get a capacitor of the same rating. It could be that the pool motor is not getting enough voltage, use a volt meter to make sure that your motor is getting 220 volts. When they get overheated, pool motors cycle. That is, they run for a brief period, turn themselves off and then turn themselves on again later. Normal motor temperature is 140 degrees, any hotter and the thermal overload will turn the motor off until it cools down. As soon as the temperature drops, the motor will turn back on, heating up too much, and then shutting down. This repeating pattern is called cycling. New pool motors overheat because of low voltage or inadequate ventilation. Old pool motors that overheat probably need to be replaced. |
Equipment for Upkeep 
