5 Tips to Keep Your Pool Pump Working Year-Round

pool-pump-1283648_640

Backyard swimming pools supply homeowners and their guests with exercise, entertainment, and some much-needed relief from the Arizona heat. However, without routine maintenance, a pool can quickly start to show signs of decline. Adequate upkeep of a pool requires more than skimming leaves and debris off the water’s surface and involves taking proper care of all its parts and pieces.

One component that’s especially important to pay attention to is the pool pump. This piece of equipment is at the core of a pool’s plumbing system, propelling thousands of gallons of water a week into the pipes and playing an essential role in helping to keep pools debris-free and unclogged. Because of their continual hard work, it’s easy for pumps to become vulnerable to deterioration if not protected. By performing the following tasks on a regular basis throughout the year, homeowners can avoid unsavory swimming conditions and costly pump repairs.

Clean It

Algae can easily begin to grow in and around a pump, causing clogs to occur. Making sure to turn the motor off first so as not to stir up dirt, clean the pump and remove buildup with a few light sweeps of a dust broom to prevent the accumulation of debris.

Inspect for Leaks

After the pump has been cleaned, it’s a good time to inspect it for evidence of leaks or ripped seals. If any problems are found, the seals will need immediate replacement.

Check the Pressure Gauge

Though there is a recommended level of pressure that comes in the owner’s manual for every pool, what’s truly appropriate will be determined by the pool’s specific size, the pump’s horsepower, and a variety of other considerations. What’s important is that the pressure gauge doesn’t read 10 psi or more above the suggested marker. If it does, filters will need to be cleaned out or backwashed so too much pressure isn’t put on the pipes.

Provide Shelter

There are several box and cover options when it comes to sheltering a pump to keep it safe from outside elements. This will help to keep the inside free and clear of debris, as well as pool chemicals that can cause corrosion inside the motor. The key when picking something out is to make sure the motor will not be sealed in an airtight space.

Make Sure There is Air Circulation

Sufficient air circulation around the pump is crucial for keeping the motor cool. Air inlets should be cleaned periodically with the power off to ensure moisture is not trapped in the motor, which can damage bearings and insulation.

The average time a pool pump should be running a day is eight hours, meaning it’s putting in a lot of work. For optimal performance and water quality, it’s best for homeowners to implement a weekly maintenance schedule for their pool pumps.