I think my pump might be dead......

[PopcornGirl]

Hey Farmgirl,

This may seem like a dumb question, but did you remember to prime the pump before starting it (add water to the pump basket so you are not starting with a dry pump)? That was my first thought from your description...

As for size, I have an inground, 12,000 gallon pool and we use a 1 HP pump (only one speed, though), which I have been told is oversized for my pool.
However, I will say that I use an automatic pool cleaner and it works GREAT with the suction provided by the 1 HP.
I hope that helps!

[farmgirl]

no, it was primed and all, DH said it was seized but he disconnected it, turned it by hand, reconnected the power, and she fired right up! I remember it doing the same thing after being stored last winter, which makes me think it might be ready to go at any time. I am shopping for a replacement so i will know what to get in the event of the pump's demise.

[badutahboy]

no, it was primed and all, DH said it was seized but he disconnected it, turned it by hand, reconnected the power, and she fired right up! I remember it doing the same thing after being stored last winter, which makes me think it might be ready to go at any time. I am shopping for a replacement so i will know what to get in the event of the pump's demise.

From what I've seen/been told here, find a 3/4 or 1 HP 2 speed pump. You need to check the pump's output and make sure it doesn't exceed the capabilities of your filter, but if you haven't had problems with your current pump, I doubt downsizing is going to present new filtration issues.

Tell us more about your filter so you can get some better advice.


(FYI, I'm a total noob with NO practical knowledge. I'm just regurgitating what I've read over and over on this board.)

[Poconos]

Since the pump started again it sure sounds like just dirty contacts for the starter winding. If the contacts are dirty and not making a good contact the motor will hum/buzz and won't start. When the motor is up to speed the contacts open. They are usually located insode the back cover where the power goes in. If you find them just take a little piece of fine sandpaper to them. Another trick, when it won't start, while power is applied and it's buzzing try rapping the case with a short 2x4. Sometimes the shock will cause the contacts to make momentarily.

Check this thread. All pumps are similar. Oh...the speed is going to be either 3450 or 1725 for the 2-speeds. That's fixed by the line frequency and motor design.

http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?t=4800

Al

[farmgirl]

HAHAHA! Thank you Poconos....Yes, we have used the "rap" method before. I do not know if the pump will need to be replaced this year or not. It is only 4 years old, i think. How long do they usually last? Where can i get another 2 speed pump? They do not seem to be easy to find. Or am i just looking in the wrong places?

[badutahboy]

HAHAHA! Thank you Poconos....Yes, we have used the "rap" method before. I do not know if the pump will need to be replaced this year or not. It is only 4 years old, i think. How long do they usually last? Where can i get another 2 speed pump? They do not seem to be easy to find. Or am i just looking in the wrong places?

http://www.poolsupplies.com/parts/waterway-hiflo.asp

[matt4x4]

Dirty brushes will do that every time, since the pump's outside all summer in the elements, dirt and moisture is a common factor, after winter storage, likely some oxidation buildup happened on the brushes and when you first fire it up, it doesn't allow for the startup current needed to pass through since they are somewhat insulated by the buildup and oxidation.
What your husband did is the right thing to get it going, this will likely happen every spring, once it runs for a bit the contacts will clean off again and you should not have any issues over the summer, just remember it for next spring.
After 4 years, you probably should check the brush condition, they could be getting low, and replacing them before total wearing could save you a few $ in other repairs or complete pump replacement - brushes are cheap and really easy to do.