Understanding Your Pool Pump

Think of your pool pump as the heart of your swimming pool's entire system. It does more than move water; it circulates it through the filter. This ensures that the water stays clean and clear for your swimming pleasure. The pump pulls water from the pool and pushes it through the filter, where any dirt and debris get trapped. It then sends clean water back into the pool.

This vital equipment keeps your pool environment healthy by circulating chemicals evenly. This process helps maintain the proper chemical balance and prevents algae from settling. But, just like a heart can have issues, so can your pool pump. It's prone to get clogged with leaves, dirt, hair, and other debris, which can affect its efficiency.

A clogged pump works harder and uses more energy. If not fixed, a clogged pump can shorten the life span of both the pump and the pool's filtration system.

To keep your pool pump running smoothly, understanding its components is crucial:

• Motor: Drives the pump and is the source of the humming noise you hear when it's running.
• Impeller: A spinning device that pushes water through the filter system.
• Pump Basket: Catches larger debris before water hits the impeller.
• Filter System: Cleans the water before it is pushed back into the pool.

Regular maintenance and inspections can prevent clogs and ensure that your pool pump continues to operate effectively. This makes your swimming experience safer and more enjoyable.

Signs of a Clogged Pool Pump

• Low Water Flow: If you notice the water in your pool isn't circulating well or the water flow from the return jets has decreased, it might be a sign that something is blocking your pump.

• Strange Noises: A clogged pump might make unusual noises. If you hear rattling or grinding sounds, it's time to check your pump.

• Pump Basket Overflows: When debris bypasses the pump basket and clogs the impeller, the basket may overflow or struggle to fill with water.



• High-Pressure Reading: If your filter's pressure gauge reads higher than normal, it indicates that the water is having trouble passing through the system due to a blockage.
  

Real Life Example: The Case of the Silent Pump

Last summer, one of our clients in Garland, TX, called us about their pool pump, which became very quiet all of a sudden and stopped moving water. Pumps usually make a steady humming noise when working the right way.

When I arrived, I found that a small toy had been sucked into the pump after escaping the skimmer basket. The toy was completely blocking the impeller.

Stept to Check for a Clogged Pool Pump

1. Turn Off the Pump: Safety first! Always turn off the pump before inspecting it.
2. Check the Skimmer and Pump Baskets: Remove and clean these baskets regularly. This prevents debris from reaching the impeller.
3. Inspect the Impeller: Open the pump housing to access the impeller. If there's debris, carefully remove it.
4. Look for Visible Blockages: Sometimes, you can see if something is blocking the intake or outtake valves without needing to open the pump.