The swimming pool contractors from Imperial Pools in Champaign, Illinois explain that your swimming pool pump is the “heart” of the entire pool operation. The water goes through the pump, is filtered, cleaned and pushed back into the pool. If it’s operating at its peak the water is clean, swimmable and bacteria-free. If it isn’t working as well as it should, there could be issues lurking beneath the surface of the water. There are many issues that could beset your pool pump but we want to cover 5 potential swimming pool pump problems you may encounter.

If you’re not fully versed in pool maintenance and equipment, you may not realize there is anything wrong with the pool pump, and as a basic, if you hear odd noises, or don’t see the water circulating, it’s time to pick up the phone and call us. The job of the pool pump is to “turn over” the water regularly and help keep it cleaned and circulated.

5 Potential Swimming Pool Pump Problems

When the pool pump is operating at its peak, you’re good to go. If you notice any changes the sooner you call us the sooner we can get you scheduled for a service visit. Our pool service clients can rest assured that we inspect the pump to ensure it’s working correctly every time we pay a service visit.

What are pool pump problems you should pay attention to?

  1. Look for leaks or standing water around the pump. If the pump is leaking it could have a bad o-ring, bad thread sealant or shrunken threats on the discharge pipe. This can be an easy and inexpensive fix.
  2. The water isn’t circulating as it should be. This could be because there is a clog that is impeding the flow of water. Check the pump basket, and the skimmer basket and remove any debris. Another reason the water isn’t circulating could be because the suction line is clogged.
  3. The motor won’t shut off. The motor won’t turn on. If this happens it’s usually a heating or electrical issue. Check the breakers if the pump motor keeps tripping them. Electrical issues likely require the service of an experienced pool contractor.
  4. The pump is getting noisy. The pool pump makes noise, but it’s usually more of a “background” noise. If it starts to get overly loud, give us a call.
  5. Air is getting pulled into the pump. The pool pump is designed to take in water — not air. The pool pump is an airtight piece of equipment and air in it is an issue. It could be an easy fix, like replacing bad thread sealant.

If you can’t easily and quickly locate the source of a pool pump issue, give your pool service contractor a call. You don’t want to run your pool pump if it’s not operating correctly because that could lead to a costly repair.

Skip to content