A pool pump is a vital part of your pool system and is integral to keep your pool clean and well-maintained. A pool pump pulls water from your pool, pushes it through the filters, and funnels in back into the pool. Luckily, this important device is fairly self-sufficient and does not need a lot of full-time maintenance, as long as you follow a few important rules.
Protect from Moisture
The number one rule any Mesa, Chandler, or Gilbert pool repair service will tell you is to check your pool pump frequently for any water leaks in the pipes. If one is present, repair or replace the seals and joints. Never splash or spray the motor with water. Make sure that the motor is mounted away from any standing water or damp spots, and that it is positioned to be protected from heavy rains.
Maintain Air Flow
The motor of a pool pump often runs at a very high temperature of over 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to this, it is imperative that the pool pump is in an area with proper air circulation which will prevent the unit from overheating. As the number one pool maintenance service in Mesa, Chandler, & Gilbert we strongly advise you take special care in ensuring no debris builds up in the motor vents as this is the main cause of many pool pump issues. Occasionally, you may need to clean the air inlets on the motor, but make sure that the unit is turned off before you do this to prevent injury. If there is an external motor cover, ensure that there is enough space between the motor and the motor cover for proper air circulation.
Off Season Maintenance
If you are planning on shutting down your pool pump once swimming season is over, make sure to take proper precautions. Make sure that the unit is dry to prevent rust build up. If the motor is outdoors, make sure to cover properly to prevent debris such as dust and leaves from building up and clogging the air vents, however never cover any part of your pool pump with airtight seals, as this will cause condensation to build up. When you finally restart your pool pump, make sure that the suction is flooded so that the pump seal is wet. If you attempt to restart the pool pump without a wet pump seal, it may damage the seal.
Cleaning
When all the proper precautions are followed, your pool pump should not need to be cleaned. However, if you wish to wipe dirt off of the unit, you may use a damp cloth. Never use a hose to clean the motor, as the water will flood the motor and may cause damage.
