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Pumps & Motors
(cont.)
Make sure
the water level in the pool is high enough, and that the skimmer weir is not stuck in the
up position. Make sure that the incoming and outgoing valves are in the open position. If
you suspect a clogged line, you can purchase a
Drain
King at a local
hardware store, or from us (just click on the link) to pressurize the line backwards from the skimmer towards the pump and
remove leaf/debris obstructions.
Replacement of filter pump:
When
replacing your motor, you may opt to install a high efficiency pump (one that is sized
correctly for your filter). This will reduce energy consumption and/or increase skimmer
suction to make the pool easier to keep clean. Prices vary, however, in the way of
example, the 1 hp Hayward SuperPump will cost
$299, plus a few plumbing fittings and one hour labor. There may also be electrical costs
to upgrade or remove hazards.
To
replace or rebuild your motor?
For most all
rebuilds of your motor, expect charges
of $100 to have a motor shop rebuild a
motor (which you bring to them and pick
up). Theoretically, the motor will last
another eight years, but the warranty is
only 90 days. Replacing the motor
with new would cost $187 for a 1 hp AO
Smith motor, plus one hour labor. The
warranty on the new motor is 2 - 3 years for most
manufacturers. Whether rebuilding or
replacing the motor, the
Mechanical
Shaft Seal should also be replaced.
Booster Pumps
You may have an automatic pool cleaner (ex. a
Polaris) that requires a
booster pump.
It looks different from your filter pump because it doesn't have a
strainer basket. All
else is the same, however it should last longer if it's being used only a few hours per
day.
Never
operate the booster pump without the filter operating and providing it a constant flow of
water. If you have time clocks, synchronize them to ensure this doesn't happen. Otherwise,
you will probably burn up the shaft seal, and possibly damage the bearings.
Blower Motors
If your pool has an attached spa, you may
have a forced air blower motor sticking up above water level. This is connected into the
spa jets (return lines) to provide turbulence and air therapy.
If your blower motor is not working or is
very noisy, it may need rebuilding or replacing. Warranties and prices are very similar to
filter motors.
Before calling for service on any motor, check that switches on the motor are on, breakers
are on, spa side or indoor remote controls are on, and the timer is on.
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