Pool care is a major aspect of ownership, but there is more than adding chemicals, cleaning the water and checking the filters when it comes to maintenance. One often taken for granted and neglected aspects of your water respite is the pool pump. As the heart of your system, regular maintenance is a must to keep the water clean and to extend the life of your pool pump.
What Does a Pool Pump Do?
One common questions about pool equipment we get is, “What is a pool pump, and what does it do?” Pool pumps are what keeps the water pushing through the pipes that circulate around the system and ultimately flow into the pool. Before the water cycles through the pump, it goes through a filter to help keep debris out so your pool is sanitary and inviting. Essentially, its functions are similar to those of the human heart, and pool pumps cycle thousands of gallons weekly, making regular maintenance essential.
Pool Care Tips to Keep Its Heart Beating Longer
1. Tend to Exteriors
About once a week, you should sweep or rake the areas around your pump. Ideally, you can place it within an indoor shed or space, but if it’s outdoors, avoid placement near trees or bushes that source debris that can hinder proper circulation of cooling fans. Clean the entire exterior of the pool pump by wiping down its shell and removing any algae, dirt, or foreign debris that can cause clogs.
2. Inspect and Clean the Filter and Motor
Follow the manufacturer’s directions that came with your pump and open the area to access the interior basket filter. Thoroughly clean the filter to allow for optimal water flow and to reduce stress on the pool pump’s motor. Take a peek at the motor to check for any cracks or signs of excessive wear. If you spot any concerns, give a pool professional in Gig Harbor a call for advice.
3. Check the Seals and O-Rings
With the pump nice and clean, lubricate the seals and o-rings with an approved lubricant. Look for any torn seals or rings and check for leaks near connected parts, and replace any suspicious ones before restarting the pump.
4. Pressure Gauge Checks
Each week, check the pressure of your pool pump. There’s no one size fits all number to shoot for, as pressure levels will depend on the pool pump’s horsepower and pool size. A number is typically suggested in the owner’s manual, but there’s no need to panic if yours is a few psi off. However, if your numbers are 10 psi higher than recommended, your filters might need backwashing.
5. Address Noisy Pump Issues Right Away
If you hear excessive noise or high-pitched squealing, there’s likely an issue that can cause the demise of your pool and decrease your pool pump’s energy efficiency. Noisy pumps typically indicate worn parts such as bearings or impeller issues, and you’ll want to have any culprit parts replaced immediately to prevent pump failure.
A Checklist of Tips for Maintaining Your Pool Pump
- Clean the surface of your pool pump and surrounding areas regularly.
- Inspect the motor for signs of wear and thoroughly clean the filtration unit.
- Evaluate and lubricate the o-rings and seals on the unit and replace and damaged ones.
- Perform a weekly pressure gauge test to reduce the chances of damaging pipes.
- Address noisy pumps right away to avoid costly replacements.
Contact Aqua Spas & Pools
Keeping your pump maintained ensures that your pool will be ready for enjoyment anytime, and you’ll extend the life of your pool pump and other essential mechanisms that rely upon it. Contact Aqua Spas & Pools online, or call us at 877-775-3442 for all of your spa and pool needs.