A pool pump can overheat in two ways: because of an electrical problem or friction. ... Even a closed valve that should be open can be enough to cause a pool pump to catch on fire — although this is a rare problem in comparison to electrical failures in pool pumps.
What happens if pool pump overheats?
So What’s the Problem with Overheating? Additional heat generated over and above what the pump is designed for can , and most likely will, cause a pump failure. The thermal disconnect will shut your pump off—and remember: your pool pump is central and essential to your cleaning system.
What causes a pool pump to catch fire?
The moving parts of a pool pump naturally create a lot of friction while the pump is active and have bearings to reduce friction and subsequent heat buildup. However, these bearings can become worn and damaged over time. ... This is one of the most common causes of pool pump overheating.
Why did my pool pump start smoking?
If your motor is smoking of cycling on and off, it is severly overheating . ... If this problem isn’t corrected, it will burn out your motor’s windings and cause it to fail. Note: A running motor that is too hot to touch is not necessarily overheating.
Is it OK to leave pool pump running?
Generally running your pool pump for 12-hours a day is a good option. ... That means that the total volume of your pool water will filter through your system 2 to 3 times per 24-hour period. For a residential pool the water should turn over at least once per day.
Why does my pool pump get hot and shut off?
A pool pump can overheat in two ways: because of an electrical problem or friction . While electrically related failures are by far the most common cause for pump overheating, as we will discuss at length, there is also the potential for a friction fire to develop if a pump is starved for water.
Does a pool pump motor get hot?
All electric motors run hot and pool pumps are no different. ... Under normal operating conditions, the motor end of the pump is hot enough that you can barely touch it — but not searing hot. If you check your pool pump motor and find it is far too hot to be able to touch with your hand, that’s not good.
How long does a pool pump motor last?
Pumps should last through the initially installed motor and perhaps as many as two or three replacement motors, usually 10-12 years . Modern pumps are made of hard plastic and will over time warp. If you still have an older cast iron or bronze pump on your pool, it’s time to budget in a new pump and motor complete.
How do I know if my pool pump is bad?
- The Pool Pump is Making a Loud Screeching Noise or Sounds Like it’s Full of Rocks. ...
- The Pool Pump is Leaking Water. ...
- The Pool Pump Basket Does Not Fill with Water. ...
- The Pool Pump is Making a Humming Noise and will not Start. ...
- The Pool Pump is Sucking in Air.
Can a pool pump be repaired?
Most of the new generation of pumps are already equipped with automatic controls and safety features. In fact, if you take enough time to learn the manual, you might find yourself able to repair some of the problems on your own. Of course, there are repairs and replacements are best left in the hands of professionals.
How does a pool motor burn out?
When a pump loses prime , or stops pulling the water to itself, this reduced or nonexistent flow of water causes the motor to run hot. If this happens for long enough, parts on the wet end (basket, trap, etc.) may warp and the motor is susceptible to burnout.
Can I leave my pool pump off for a week?
So if you have to leave it running for a week it shouldn’t make a big dent in the electric bill. Having to spend the money on getting the pool back in shape will probably cost more than leaving it on anyway. I would make sure you fill the pool water as high as you can though since you will be gone for a week.
How long can I leave my pool pump off?
This is called turnover rate. It’s simple: in order to run your pump effectively for eight hours , your pump should be able to process all of your pool water during that time. If you find that your pump is made for a much larger pool, you’ll want to run it for less than 8 hours a day.
How many hours per day should a pool pump run?
Overall, the lessons learned today is you should run your pool pump an average 8 hours a day to properly circulate and clean your water. The pump should push your entire pool in gallons in this 8 hour period of time. Residential pool water only needs to be turned over once daily to have proper filtration.
