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What is the pool pump, its installation and its most common breakdowns

Pool pump: heart of the pool, which centers all the movement of the hydraulic installation of a pool and moves the pool water. So, on this page we basically tell you what the pool pump is, its installation and its most common breakdowns

Pool pump

En Ok Pool Reform and in this section within Pool filtration We offer you all the details, doubts, etc. most common about pool pump.

What is a pool pump

Solar pool pump

Pool pump

Pool water pump It is the pool equipment responsible for absorbing the pool water to maintain and clean the pool water and then return it to the properly filtered pool glass.

How the pool pump works

The operation of the pool pumps ensures that the filter does its job of distilling the water from impurities.

So, the pool water pump is like the heart that centers all the movement of the hydraulic installation of a swimming pool and move the water from the glass so that it passes through the filter and returns through the pipes filtered and completely suitable to enjoy the joy in the pool.

It must be clarified that the pool motor does not transmit the water at a super pressure, nor quickly, but rather does its filtering work for four to six hours a day so that a large amount of water recirculates through the filter mechanism but without pressure being felt.

This slow programming of the circulation of the filter pool water pump, allows the filter to retain the particles in its bed of sand or of ecofiltrante or glass (filter glass) in a suitable way so that the water is very clean and crystalline.


What type of pool motor is the ideal

How to choose a pool water pump

Firstly, you must find the exact pool motor that offers us the necessary benefits according to our power, such as: power, diameter and among other characteristics the flow rate of the filter.

Indeed, it will depend on the choice of the pool water pump to ensure hygienic measures that are required to keep the water crystal clear.

swimming pool motor

Factors influencing the choice of pool pump

To a large extent, the factors that will influence us in the choice of motors for swimming pools are mentioned below, although we are going to break them down and detail them below:

  1. Know what volume of water (m3) has our pool.
  2. Know the capacity of the pool filter (it directly influences how the pool treatment pump should be); In other words, the pool purifier motor must be manufactured for the filter of one size or another.
  3. Swimming pool purifier motor flow (m3 / h) must be adequate to guarantee proper cleaning of the pool water.
  4. We will have to look for the pump power adequate.
  5. Manufacturer of the pool purifier motor.
  6. Type o pump model (for example: if we want a variable speed pool motor model).
  7. Type of current supply for swimming pool motors: single-phase system (one phase), two-phase (two phases) and the three-phase (three phases).

What size pump do I need for my pool?

To begin with, we should be clear about the concept that the The size of the pool pump itself must be proportional to the size of our pool filter..

We must never install a filter that does not support the flow of the pump.

In general, when referring to the size of the pool motor, we refer to the power of the equipment.

Normally, when talking about the size of a bomb reference is made to your power

Pool pump flow

To clarify the above, When choosing the pool pump, we must set the capacity it has to pump the pool water and how long the water can recirculate for this task.

Therefore, the definition of recirculation time en: period that the entire pool filtration system needs to purify all the water in the pool glass.

The concept of flow is the magnitude measured through the International System, which refers to the capacity of the amount of water to be displaced m³ / h (cubic meters) for a preset unit of time (hour).

So in short, Depending on the flow of water we need and the filter we have, we are going to choose a purifying motor for the pool or another.

Calculation of the recirculation capacity of the pool water

In this way, the recirculation capacity of the pump can be calculated with the following formula:

Minimum required pumping capacity = Pool volume / filter duration.

Then click on the link and discover:

Problems caused by an inadequate expiration of the pool motor

Pool pump power

The higher the pool motor power (pump pressure) of the pool, the higher the pool water flow result

On the other hand, it is very important to consider the necessary pressure of the pool pump very well, since The further away you are from the pool, the greater pressure it will require to be able to carry out a correct recirculation of the water.

In order to ensure proper cleaning and aspiration of the pool water, we recommend that if it is not a very strange case, the power ofl engine de the pool is equal to or greater than 0,75CV and the pool filter is equal to or greater than 450mm.


What type of pump is used for a swimming pool

Next, we present the most representative models of pumps for pool filtration and we also tell you what the pool purifier motor pre-filter is for.

self-suction pool pumpSelf-suction pool pump

Main characteristics Self-suction pool pump

  • The self-priming pool pump is the most common pump.
  • This pool motor sucks the water into the filter and then drives it back into the pool.
  • In addition, its use is suitable for both private pools and pools for public use.
  • On the other hand, comment that this type of pool pumps can be found made of materials such as: bronze, cast iron, plastic ...
  • And, finally, they have some particularities of fixed activity determined by CV: 1 / 2CV, ¾ CV, 1CV, 1 1 / 2CV, 2CV…).

centrifugal pool pumpCentrifugal pool pump

Main characteristics Centrifugal pool motor

  • The pool pump is the most common type and used in large and medium sized pools.
  • The centrifugal pool purification motor uses a rotating rotor that draws the water towards its center and that, due to the centrifugal force, rejects it outwards through the rotor blades and out of the pump. 

variable speed pool pump Variable speed pool pump

How a variable speed water pump benefits your pool

  • Variable speed pool pumps are a revolutionary and innovative product.
  • The variable speed system of a swimming pool motor is based on a variation of the operation that is not continuous, therefore it adjusts the speed, flow and energy consumption according to the requirements of the pool and only turns on when it is strictly necessary.
  • Variable speed pool pump they have several built-in programs that are used for many types of use.
  • So no type of calculation will be needed either since it will regulate itself as required.
  • We obtain a better filtration of the pool water, thanks to the reduced speed and adapted to the algae they grow more slowly and they reproduce more quickly in rough waters.
  • The noise from the variable speed pool motor is almost soundless.
  • The life span of the variable speed pool pump is longer than the others as it runs less time than the others.
  • For this reason, electricity consumption is greatly reduced compared to other pool treatment plants.

pump espa silenplus variable speedESPA Silenplus Variable Speed ​​Pump

Characteristics ESPA Silenplus Variable Speed ​​Pump
  • Ultra-silent pool motor.
  • Variable speed filtration pump for recirculation and filtration of water in small, medium and large swimming pools.
  • Self-suction pool motor up to 4m.
  • Management of the pump through an application connected to the Internet.
  • Longer life than other pool motors.

Pool blower pumpPool blower pump

Main characteristics water pumps for blowing pools

  • To begin with, it should be noted that these types of pumps are also often referred to as: discontinuous use blower pump.
  • The pool blower pump is normally used in spaces such as spa, relaxation or wellness; that is, in places that combine functions of air and water.
  • Although there are also specific self-priming pumps exclusively for the functions described above.

Solar pool pumpSolar pool pump

Main characteristics Solar pool pump

  • The operation of the solar pool motor is a great proposal to purify the water.
  • Solar pool motors use solar energy to run and it can offer a water flow of up to 10000 to 16000 liters / hour without having to spend a lot of electricity consumption.
  • On the other hand, evidently solar pool pumps are environmentally friendly.
  • LSolar pool motors trap the solar energy that is captured in solar panels to purify the pool water with a voltage of 24v, 60v and 72v with an automatic gear that is activated by the sun's radiation.
  • The winding of the solar pool pump is different from conventional pumps and its operation also, since its motor is activated with the solar irradiation it receives from the panel and adjusts to a fully automatic system with the intensity of sunlight, with higher speed at noon hours, they can work more hours each day, saving energy, time and money.
  • In addition, does not need any battery and the water is purified all year round.
  • The solar pool pump with its use of sustainable energy is capable of run for 8 hours a day in midsummer and about 5-6 hours a day during winter.
  • Likewise, the new models of solar pool pump include their installation kit and a regulator so that the pool motor works perfectly with solar panels. As we have already said, they are a purification system that is powered by photovoltaic solar energy. In other words, the pool is purified without using electricity and the system is powered by the energy contained in the solar panels.
  • Finally, for more information, consult the specific page of: solar pool treatment plant.

pool pump pre-filterPool pump pre-filter

Main characteristics Pool blower pump

  • Generally, pool pumps include a pre-filter that feeds the water through the turbines and prevents oversized elements from reaching the turbines and a basket that retains large particles that cannot circulate through the turbines.
  • In addition, It incorporates a lid that makes it possible to extract the basket where said filth is retained.
  • This pre-filter for swimming pool motors They are located before the water inlet to the turbines.
  • In this way, the pool motor pre-filter It helps to extend the cleaning of the filter and in turn to extend the useful life of the turbine.
  • Finally, We recommend that in high bathing season the pre-filter of the water pumps for swimming pools be cleaned weekly and in this way you can get a greater pool maintenance.

Videotutorial explanatory course for swimming pool motor

Explanatory course content for swimming pool motor

  • Pool motor operation = 1:36
  • Centrifugal electric pump = 2:55
  • Multicellular = 3:19
  • Pumps for Hot Water = 3:41 -
  • Cold Water Pumps 4:47 -
  • Pool motor flow = 5:40
  • Manometric height (Pressure) = 6:04
  • Pump selection -
  • Characteristic curve of the pump = 7: 13 -
  • Constant speed pumps = 8:10 -
  • Variable speed pumps = 8:31
  • Cavitation = 9:02
  • Pressure groups = 9:44 -
  • Set the Pressure Switch = 10:08 -
  • Electronic controller regulation = 10:34 -
  • Variable speed regulation = 11:06
Videotutorial explanatory course for swimming pool motor

How much does a pool pump cost

From screening and determining the possibilities that we have discussed for pool pumps, we can obtain a price for it.

Actually, we can find pumps for small pools from € 75 and pumps with features and sophistication of even € 500.

Generally speaking, A pool pump with the correct quality and requirements for a private medium-sized pool would be around: € 275-€ 350.


How long does a pool pump last?

Approximately, the estimated useful life according to the different manufacturers for swimming pool pumps is around 10 years.

In order to extend the maximum working time of the pool motor and foresee the solution to future problems, we recommend that you carefully read our page about the most frequent problems that usually appear over time.


How to install a pool pump

How to install a pool pump

Steps to follow for the installation of the pool motors

  1. The first step is to check that the ground where we are going to place the pump is level.
  2. Check that we have an electrical outlet.
  3. Next, connect the motor to the pool treatment plant.
  4. Connect the pool water inlet pipe.
  5. Then connect the filter to the water return to the pool.
  6. We must leave the pool motor cover loose (this is how we tolerate the air outlet).
  7. Open the filtering air valve to ensure that the water can enter the chamber of the same.
  8. Start the pool motor.
  9. Remove any remaining water bubbles as the water recirculates.
  10. Subsequently, close the pool safety valve and no more air will enter the installation.

Pool pump installation video

pool pump installation

Where to place a pool pump

To begin with, comment that many people believe that the location of the pool motor is indifferent; which is not true.

The ideal placement of the pool pump for proper operation would be either at the pool level or up to 4 meters below the pool level.

On the other hand, it is also not appropriate for the technical room to be too far from the pool Neither by channeling issue nor by channeling issue nor by the pressure nor consumption of the pump.

All this will also be conditioned according to the type of pump selected and the filter that we have in the purifier.

And finally, it should be remembered that The technical room where the pump is located must have a level floor.


How to change a pool pump

Steps to follow to know how to change the pool pump

Next, we specify how to disassemble the pool pump and then later change it for a new one.

  1. Lower switches
  2. Disconnect cables
  3. Disassemble fittings
  4. Empty pump
  5. Removing the motor from the pool.
  6. Exchange of connections
  7. Exchange of fittings
  8. Electric connection
  9. Socket connection
  10. Check tightness (put pressure with the taps closed)
  11. Purge some of the air
  12. Electric connection
  13. Open keys and test
  14. Purge again

Video how to change pool pump

Next, you can view the video with the previous steps described that tell us how to change the pool pump.

how to change pool pump

Common Pool Pump Malfunctions

Pool pump breakdowns

Pool motor problems due to flow

Pool pump flow

To clarify the above, When choosing the pool pump, we must set the capacity it has to pump the pool water and how long the water can recirculate for this task.

Therefore, the definition of recirculation time en: period that the entire pool filtration system needs to purify all the water in the pool glass.

The concept of flow is the magnitude measured through the International System, which refers to the capacity of the amount of water to be displaced m³ / h (cubic meters) for a preset unit of time (hour).

So in short, Depending on the flow of water we need and the filter we have, we are going to choose a purifying motor for the pool or another.

Calculation of the recirculation capacity of the pool water

In this way, the recirculation capacity of the pump can be calculated with the following formula:

Minimum required pumping capacity = Pool volume / filter duration.

Problems caused by an inadequate flow of the pool motor

To begin, comment that eIt is very important to carry out a correct pool filter cleaning maintenanceAs it is logical, with the passage of time the flow decreases due to the presence of dirt in the filter.

So, we must get into the routine of backwashing the filter weekly in high bathing season and monthly in low season to always be able to enjoy treated and hygienic pool water.

And, obviously, the problems related to the flow of the pool motor have a lot to do with the size of the pump, its power ... Well, if you need it, click on the following link to find out What pump do I need for my pool?

Excessive pool motor flow

  • In the event that the flow rate of the pool purifier motor is excessive, we will find the problem that the pool water will flow so quickly through the pool filter that it will be unable to retain the unwanted particles properly, so we will find insufficient cleaning or put another way with a low pool water quality.

Insufficient pool water pump flow

  • On the contrary, in the event that the flow rate of the swimming pool purifier motor is insufficient, perhaps we can find the case that when performing the periodic washing of the pool filter, they are not carried out properlyTherefore, due to lack of flow, they cannot remove the particles from the filtering load (sand, filter glass ...).
  • Finally, lack of flow caused by an excess of filth in the pool filter.

Most frequent problems in the pool motor pump

Pool pump problems

1- Deterioration of swimming pool pumps: The pool motor pump does not start

  1. First of all, for these swimming pool pump failures, the electrical system of the pump must be checked.
  2. Check for any obstructions.
  3. On the other hand, it should be checked if there is overheating of the pool pump and if there is, place the pool motor in another place.
  4. Check that the filter house is not flooded.
  5. In some cases it may indicate that the pool motor has reached the end of its useful life.

 2-  Detriment pool pumps: Pool pump stops or stalls

  • Check that there is no presence of sand that prevents the rotation of the pump turbine.
  • Check that the voltage of the pump connection is adequate.

 3-Most frequent problems in the pool motor: the pool pump does not turn off

  • Check if the automatic control of the pump is supplied with power.

 4- Most frequent problems in the pool motor: Pool motor pump does not suck

  • Examine the water level.
  • Examine the skimmer.

 5-  Pool pump failures: The pool pump does not deliver enough water

  • To start, check that the filter is not dirty.
  • Check that the skimmers do not have any plugging.
  • Check that the pool purifier motor basket is clean.
  • Clean the filter sand if it has not been done for a long time.
  • Check that no valve in the return line is closed.
  • Check that there is no traffic jam on the return line.
  • Check that the impeller is not stuck or has any cracks.
  • Examine the pressure switch or automatic flow switch on the pump.
  • Check that the pool pipes are of the recommended size.

6-  Pool pump malfunction: The pool pump loses water

  • Check the seal of the pump motor seal.
  • Check the pool pipes.

7- Most frequent problems in the pool motor pump: The pool pump is noisy but does not work

  • First, in this type of pool pump failure, it must be verified that there is no blockage in the pump.
  • Check that there is no gap in the pump.
  • If there are disturbances in the pool motors, it is a sign that the pool pump has air mixed with water.
  • On the other hand, if there are vibrations in the pump, it is necessary to make it more stable.
  • If the pool motors make screaming noises, the diffuser and impeller should be checked, it is also a symptom that some part of the motor is not working properly.
  • If the pump whistles it should be emptied and refilled as it indicates that it contains air.

8- Most frequent problems in the pool motor: Air enters the pool motor pump

  • The mechanical seal of the sewage motor is damaged = consider purchasing a new one.

9-  Pool pump failures: Presence of air bubbles in the pump

  • Check the pool water level.
  • Also, it will be necessary to verify that the pre-filter of the pool purifier motor is not loose or cracked.
  • Check the condition of the pool pipes.

 10  Damage to swimming pool pumps: The pump heats up when it is running

  • Check if there is sufficient ventilation for the motor.
  • Check with a professional if the amperage and voltage of the motor when it is running is normal.

11- Most frequent problems in the pool motor: The water circulates through the house and inside

  • The mechanical seal of the pool motor is damaged = consider purchasing a new one.

12 Most frequent problems in the pool motor pump: Bad bearings

  • This is the most common problem that pumps always run into. Bearings are vulnerable to shock, vibration and corrosion. Once the engine sound experiences an abnormality, such as a humming noise, it is time to replace the bearings.
  • We recommend calling the maintenance technician every 4 years to do a check, although this problem is easy to detect by the noise of the engine. In addition to the increase in noise, unfortunately electricity consumption also rises, so we pay more at the end of the month.
  • It is common to replace both bearings (rear and front) if you find that only one bearing (which is always the front) is faulty. The bearings are the most vulnerable parts of the motor, as they are the ones that are subjected to more stress than any other part of the pump system.
  • The bearings also need lubrication so as not to accumulate rust, especially when the pool and pump are rarely used. In the new models of pool pumps that are now on the market, the bearings are lubricated.
  • When the mechanical seal loses its tightness, a slow process of water seepage begins to the bearing that is closest to the wet part of the pump. Over time, this bearing ends up rusting and nailing the pump.
  • In principle, the bearings are lubricated and are prepared to function for about 4 years without problems. Even when they are not used for long periods of time, winter. But they have also limited the time frame and require minimal maintenance. Better check the Owner's Manual for instructions.
Video of changing the bearings of a swimming pool water pump

The following video shows in a practical way how to disassemble the change of bearings of the pool water pump and put it back together again.

Changing the bearings of the swimming pool water pump

13- Pool pump failures: Dirty impeller

  • Impellers are also vulnerable to clogging, especially if the water you are pumping is full of large debris that can accidentally pass through the pump body basket and into the impeller plugging the water outlets.
  • The result is that the flow of filtered water drops and we lose pressure in the filtration. This can be detected in the water outlets of the pool.
  • Excessively dirty water and the broken basket can block the rotation of the turbine, causing the motor, if it is not well protected, to burn and even break the turbine on its shaft.

14- Motor winding short circuit

  • A short circuit occurs when liquid (such as water) is present inside the motor windings. This water (possibly from worn shaft mechanical seal or faulty o-rings) that can seep out during heavy rain overnight.
  • A power surge or micro-cuts in motor power can also occur during a storm or in summer with fires. In this case it is urgent to stop the pump, since the start-up process is very easy to damage with these mains power cuts.
  • If the starter winding burns out, the entire motor would have to be rewound, as it is not possible to wind just one coil when they are together.

15 Most frequent problems in the pool motor pump: Engine overheated

  • When a motor is overloaded (such as a sudden increase in the amp reading or a sudden increase in mains current, overspeed due to knocking, poor bearing and short circuits, etc.), it is more likely to the engine burns out. Faulty bearings can cause the stator to rotate, forcing the motor and triggering consumption, which overheats the windings and consequently burns the coils.
  • A capacitor that does not have the necessary micro farad capacity makes the start longer by forcing the starter coil. If the capacitor lowers its value too much, the pump starts to hum, but does not turn.
  • At the first symptoms of difficulty in starting, the technician should be contacted to check the capacitor and replace it.

16 - Most frequent problems in the pool motor pump: Engine burned out due to negligence

  • Yes, this happens frequently. A 230 volt pool pump, but accidentally misconnected to the connection terminals. This is one of the common mistakes group owners or other users make when installing a power supply or testing the pump.
  • We recommend that a Schuko outlet be installed on the wall and that the pump be connected as it comes from the manufacturer, taking advantage of the supplied cable.
  • A typical cause of motors overheating and burning is when the owner removes the protective cover from the fan. The fan cap serves two functions:
  • 1-Protect the propeller rotation from damage.
  • 2-Channel the air that enters the propeller and direct it towards the engine.

17- Bearings without lubrication

  • The bearings also need lubrication so as not to accumulate rust, especially when the pool and pump are rarely used. In the new models of pool pumps that are now on the market, the bearings are lubricated.
  • When the mechanical seal loses its tightness, a slow process of water seepage begins to the bearing that is closest to the wet part of the pump. Over time, this bearing ends up rusting and nailing the pump.
  • In principle, the bearings are lubricated and are prepared to function for about 4 years without problems. Even when they are not used for long periods of time, winter. But they have also limited the time frame and require minimal maintenance. Better check the Owner's Manual for instructions.

18- Pool pump failures: Mechanical seal in poor condition

  • All pumps are equipped with a mechanical seal that isolates the wet part of the pump body from the electrical part of the motor. This seal, which is located behind the impeller, wears out over time.
  • Also the operation of the pump without water damages the mechanical seal, initiating a process of water leakage that will oxidize the motor bearing, in addition to losing water.
  • So with these swimming pool pump breakdowns there is a loss of water in a pump that is capable of emptying a pool if the pump is lower than the pool. It is not the first time that by fixing a small water leak in the pump, we have solved this problem of draining water with the consequent saving of water.

Video with a summary of the typical problems in swimming pool motors and pumps

typical problems in pool motors and pumps

How to clean a pool pump

Next, in this video you can see how to clean the pool pump and do the usual maintenance.

How to clean a pool pump

How to bleed the pool pump

Steps to put the pool pump

One of the most used ways to purge a pool pump is

  1. First, fill the pool
  2. Then open the drain, skimmer and return taps and except the cleaner key.
  3. Also, the filter cap or cap must be opened to let the air out.
  4. And then the swimming pool motor circuit is put into operation (which will take a few minutes).

Other ways to purge the pool pump

However, when the previous method described does not work for us to purge the pump, it can be tried with other solutions, such as:

  • Fill the pump basket with water and start the pump after having the basket full.

Video how to purge a pool water pump

How to bleed the pool pump

How to prime a pool pump

In order to have an adequate work of the pool purification system, the pool pump must be primed, since in this way its correct operation is guaranteed.

Remember that the pool motors are the ones in charge of activating the entire filtering mechanism so that the water circulates and stays clean and safe to bathe at home during a super fun vacation, this is why it is so convenient to keep it in its optimal conditions.

Steps to follow to prime the pool pump

To do the priming required to keep the pool motors working properly, the following actions must be taken:

  1. In this case of pool pump failures, the pool pump must be turned off at the circuit breaker or by disconnecting its cable.
  2. Close the valves on the pump and remove the cap to allow air to escape.
  3. Clean the filter basket and put it back in its place.
  4. Unscrew the cap to attach the hose and open it to fill the water pump until it overflows on the surface to avoid any air leakage and replace the cap.
  5. Run the pump until it is verified that the water is circulating normally, opening the suction side. But, when it is still blocked by an air point, it is necessary to repeat these actions to ensure that it works perfectly.

Video How to prime pool pump

The solution when you have to expel the air from the pool filter is to prime the pool pump by filling the circuit with water.

Some clues to know when to prime bamba pool and therefore this happens are:

  • When the cleaner does not suck.
  • The water level has dropped below the skimmer.
How to prime a pool pump