I decided to check the timer myself and removed the center screw that holds the time pointer and the time wheel. There was this taupe color light in texture grease and dirt on the gears and all around the on off switch and some on the tripper pins I put on the other day. I cleaned a lot of it but couldn't reach some areas. I put it back together and set the time. The pump stayed on for about an hour then it shut off and came back on after seven minutes. Then it went back to shutting off and on again but at seven to ten minute intervals. I think if I dismantle it and clean it thoroughly it might work like it should. If the grease is supposed to be on the gears then I probably need to replace the timer.