do pool pump impellers wear out

A bad water pump can make a variety of different sounds, depending on the type of failure that has occurred. You only need to clean your pool pump impeller when you notice an issue with the pump or filter pressure. It should snap off easily and expose the impeller. What causes it? For maximum safety turn off the power at the circuit breaker to the motor - usually located next to the timer box. TY. Water will spray out initally as you see the pressure on the pressure gauge go to 0 psi. What could the problem be? In fact, it is recommended to replace pool pump impellers every two to three years. If you have low filter pressure, cant hear the motor pump, or hear strange noises coming from your pump, you most likely have a clogged pool pump impeller. The earlier you catch these warning signs, the better, as it will save you more money in the long run the sooner you notice it! A pump impeller sits behind the pump basket in the part of the pool pump called the Volute (aka Impeller Housing). Whats Included in Pool Cleaning Services. Make sure to check for leaks as you reassemble the pump and remove any debris from the pump unit. Well walk you through how to check your pool pump for red flags it needs pool pump service. Tighten the bearing caps when you are sure the bearing assembly is firmly in place. Theres no surefire way to keep from getting clogs in your pool pump impeller, but you can take steps to try and prevent it. Do pool pump impellers wear out? If the motor shaft does not rotate freely, the bearings are probably bad. Check the pump body for possible cracks. The location of the pool pump impeller is shown in this cut-away of a pump. To gain access to the end of the motor shaft you will have to remove the capacitor. bad impeller, bad water pump, boat impeller, engine . Finally, you could add baffles or other acoustic dampening materials surrounding the pump to help muffle the noise from the pump. The air bubbles move, pressure is increased and the air . If you find small pebbles stuck in the vane, you can use your tool to push them back through the opening, so theyll fall out. If youve cleaned your pump impeller and are still having problems, you might need to check on other potential issues, including: Download my free, printable pool maintenance checklist to help you accomplish regular pool care tasks for any type of swimming pool. A clogged impeller can lead to severely limited flow through the system and could burn out the motor. Michael has over 30 years of experience in the swimming pool industry. Unbolted the motor to check the impeller for trash but couldn't pull it apart. 4 Common Pool Pump Issues | Manning Pool Service Houston, TX, Founded in 2001 by Jeff Manning, Jeff has provided extensive pool service and repair expertise for the Greater Houston Area. However,. Thus, one could distinguish plugging problems from pump wear problems (for which increased leakage most likely occurs). Something went wrong. To check for bearing noise associated with a water pump, you will want to start the vehicle while it is stationary and start the engine at idle. I do not believe it is the filters one is 6 months old and it does the same thing. If a pool pump is functioning properly it should make a low humming noise that becomes gradually louder as it reaches peak performance. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Waterway SMF Impeller 1hp 313-4140 at the best online prices at eBay! Line your pump basket with skimmer socks or nylons to catch small debris. It is cold outside. In extreme cases, when the impeller is completely worn, there will be no flow and hardly any power. No, a pool pump should not be loud. Would you agree with that statement? are small in comparison to most pumps. The impeller is located right behind the pump basket, so you have to remove the basket to access the impeller. Posted: 6/11/2013, Smitty To extract the motor pump assembly from the pump housing, first remove the four 9/16" bolts that bind the motor pump assembly to the housing. Slip the motor assembly back into the housing. Other times, we need to take the pump apart to manually clean out the impeller. Hooked up my new pump with new impeller, gaskets, etc. One method to reduce the noise your water feature makes is to add more plants and rocks to the area. Inspect the bearings for signs of damage or excessive wear. If you follow these steps and keep your filter clean and functioning properly, youll know your pool filter is functioning properly. This article discusses the operation and operational assessment/management of pumps and how to deal with the operational problems of pumps. You might feel the screwdriver or coat hanger dislodging the debris and even see that material come to the bottom of the pump. Thus, with a plugged pump, bhp may increase or decrease depending on the relative impact of impeller plugging versus an increase in mechanical losses. If pump has 6 bolts, replace bolts in this sequence - 1, 3, 5, 2, 4, 6. Make sure you clean the filter media according to the manufacturers instructions. Give us a call and we will line you up with a technician at the pump manufacturer. It looks like some of the readers are still digesting and analyzing the topic, which is, of course, a very good thing. Request Service Online. In addition, the pressure tank is charged and connected to the system using a small air compressor. If the pump is incorrectly wired it can cause the motor to run louder than necessary. All of these can cause excessive noise, and should be taken care of as soon as possible. Since the H-Q performance reduces,the intersection with the system curve will change resulting in a decreased system flow. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_22',166,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');Additionally, the filter size can be reduced to reduce the flow of water and make the pool pump slower. When making any changes to the pool pump, it is important to consult a pool professional to ensure that the system is set up properly and is operating safely. It can corrode the surface. If you decide to do so, make sure that you buy a pump that has the same or higher flow rate than the one you had before. Any idea what could cause this? If your pump has a diffuser piece or impeller shroud, remove it so you can see into the impeller. The pump basket is in place to prevent small debris from entering the volute, and possibly clogging the impeller. My question is how best do I separate my old leaking shaft seal (and impeller) from its metal bracket/motor mount. Finally make sure that your skimmer and strainer baskets are clean. Close the relief valve on top of the filter, after the air is purged and water starts to spray out of the valve. Posted: 12/18/2014, InyoPools Product Specialist Dennis R. But the brake horsepower (bhp) does not change since the power lost due to the hydraulic friction losses increases corresponding to the increase in hydraulic friction losses. In extreme cases, when the impeller is completely worn, there will be no flowand hardly any power. Just 0.015 to 0.020 inches off the correct clearance can reduce the performance of a 10-inch impeller to perform like 9.5 inches. Thank you! Copyright Cahaba Media Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved. POOL RENOVATION SPRING & SUMMER SPECIAL: 5% OFF PLASTER OR TOTAL COST OF TILE/TURF REMODEL USE PROMOCODE: RENO5. It is possible to place this seal upside down. Step by Step Top Step 1 Before you tackle the impeller, check to see that your filter and pump skimmer basket are clean. If the pool pump is too loud either the bearings need to be replaced, the internal parts of the pump need to be serviced and cleaned, or the pump needs to be replaced. If there is excessive swelling, noticeable wear and/or cracks, or one or more of the impeller vanes have broken off, replace the impeller pump immediately. Enter a postal code to find the nearest Hayward authorized pool professional. Keep working the impeller back and forth until its easier to move. If you used chemicals to clear your water, these chemicals may be clogging your filter. Remove the pump lid and check the basket. Over time, corrosion essentially eats away at parts within a pump. Note: Securing the motor shaft on other non-Hayward type pumps varies. But in many cases, tight clearance parts, such as wear rings and bushings, are the first to wear. Check hose connections then take out one hose at a time to try to isolate the leak. What is the useful life of an impellar? It can also be caused by a suction leak, where there is a breach in the plumbing in front of the suction side of the pump. Posted: 6/2/2013, dlc Additionally, non-functioning impellers can cause excessive noise, vibration, and can damage other components inside the pump. I would guess this is a filter issue. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'remodelormove_com-leader-4','ezslot_21',167,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-leader-4-0');If you have a sand filter, make sure to backwash it on a regular basis and make sure the sand has not become compacted or caked over. Make sure you are running the correct size pump for your pool size and requirements. Finally, make sure to regularly perform basic maintenance for your pump, such as checking the oil levels, seals, bearings, and impellers to prevent additional noise caused by inefficient operation. Must be taking on air somewhere. Pool pumps located in areas of extreme weather conditions may have a shorter lifespan. Is it necessary to pry the motor away? medic 1655 - I have no idea what your three metal gaskets are either?? If the bolt or socket is stripped, you may have a problem getting it to hold when you reassemble your pump. While this may be convenient and allows for easier maintenance and cleaning, it can have an effect on the life of the pump and its motor, leading to premature deterioration, increased maintenance costs and wasted energy. You could also install a noise-attenuating or soundproof enclosure around the pump to help reduce the noise. First, I'd check to ensure your wiring and voltage settings are correct. I would pull out the motor and check it. Water enters the center of the impeller. Pickles - I am not familiar with this pump but going to a hammer sounds a little extreme and you may end up damaging the pump. You should also check if the washer, nuts, and bolts of the impeller are loose or worn out. If the impeller has been clogged, youll find it hard to move initially. If the humming noise is louder than expected, then it is likely that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. To prevent pool pump impeller clogs, cover your pool when youre not using it, use a skimmer net, line your pump basket with skimmer socks, and keep nearby trees and bushes trimmed. But I don't know. Validate essential measurement parameters and data without putting employees at risk. This process can help companies achieve targets with reduced emissions and water conservation. Compatibility: Reinforced Impeller Blades compatible with Summer Waves SFX1500+, SFX1000 pool pumps. This slot is often accessable by simply taking off the end cap of the motor. Other things to check are the impeller and its components. Shaded pool area. There are also other diagnostic tests you can perform to check for water pump issues, such as a pressure test or a power balance test. When the system is activated, the motor will begin pumping water from the well and into the homes plumbing system. Once you get the impeller spinning smoothly and arent pulling up more debris, you can put the pump basket back in place. Next, you need to insert the shaft into the motor and position the bearing assembly back into place. Quality pool pumps, like those made by reliable brands and with fewer plastic components, are longer-lasting and typically last from 5-10 years or more. In other cases the threads that hold the impeller to the motor shaft become worn causing the impeller to wobble and rub against the diffuser. I have a Purex 2hp Whisperflow pump. If you are able to access the water pump itself, you can lightly touch it to see if it vibrates due to the bearing noise. Check the top of the basket cavity to make sure it has not cracked from over tightening. To learn more about pool pump repair trouble signs, click here to read the complete blog. At the impeller end, twist off the impeller counterclockwise. Also, you might want to specify what type of lube to use on that gasket (silicon, I believe would work). It ran great for a few minutes then began to cycle on and off. When turnin the pump on, the motor runs at a slow speed for the first 20 seconds, then it shuts down completely. May 21, 2012. The answer to this question depends largely on the specific circumstances of your pool and the type of pool pump you have. Easy removal of the casing top allows for qucik and painless access to the pump parts. First, it could be that the bearings in the pump have worn out and need to be replaced. I have a question. Lastly, its always important to ensure the pump is receiving regular maintenance such as greasing the motor, emptying the basket, and maintaining the chemicals for optimal pump performance, as this may also lead to a quieter operation. Pumps. If your business is having trouble with wear rings in its API centrifugal pumps or needs help with maintenance or other pump issues, give PumpWorks a call - 855.979.9139 or contact us online today! Below is our interaction about this piece. He may be reached at drpump@pumpingmachinery.com. Pool pump impeller clogs will happen, so you dont have to beat yourself up if you discover that its your issue. My Hayward super pump loses its prime when I attach the pool vacuum at the skimmer. Finally, if your pool pump is older, it may be a good idea to replace the bearings as a preventative measure to extend its life. It might require deeper cleaning if youre still having trouble with your impeller. As its name suggests, an open impeller has vanes that are open on both sides without any protective shroud. By adding plants and rocks, selecting a pump with noise-dampening design, and using a splash guard you can create a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. The impeller is a critical part of the pump, as it helps to pull water from the pool and forces it through the filtration system. Pull the motor straight back to separate the pump from the stand motor. Replacing the bearings in a pool pump is a relatively straightforward process, although it does require some specialized tools and some knowledge of mechanicals. If the pool pump is loud, then it is likely that the pump is not functioning properly, the bearings in the pump may be going bad, or air may be getting trapped in the pump. If you believe it is a wiring problem, I'd call an electrician. Also replace the impeller if the vanes are not making contact with the pump body. Replace the four bolts evenly. There is a problem, however, when poor drainage causes standing water from storms to linger around the motor. Inspect the bearings for signs of wear and damage. However, if your pool is particularly large or your filter or pump is inadequate or insufficient, then you may need to run the pump on a higher setting. In short, the motor is not made to function sitting in a puddle of water. Remove the pump filter assembly by removing a series of bolts located around the circumference of the pool pump using a ratchet set. This also maximizes the effectiveness of the sanitizing chemicals and helps keep the pool clean and healthy. Make sure the plastic strip is in place between the clip and capacitor so that the capacitor does not short out. The remaining power (bearing losses, seal faces, etc.) There are four main gaskets and seals on a pool pump: Lid Gasket - located on or under the strainer lid. If you water was dirty and you ran that water through the filter, the filter may need to be cleaned several times to clear the fine debris out of the filter. You may have 115V at the breaker box and your pump may be set up for 230V. I have a call into the motor rep. Question - should I be able to keep motor from spinning simply by holding onto impeller when i turn it on? Step 3 Next you will have to relieve the pressure that builds up in the pump during operation. Thanks! No matter what issue is causing your pump to act up, Manning Pool Service is at your side to get it fixed quickly, easily, and at an affordable rate. Posted: 4/5/2015, InyoPools Product Specialist Dennis R. Your pool pump impeller may become clogged overtime due to debris, such as pine needles, seeds, sand, grass clippings, and pool plaster particles. As the impeller is spun by the motor, a series of blades, like a fan, pushes the water to the outside edges of the impeller where it exits through slots to be collected by the diffuser. Also if the threads are worn causing the impeller to wobble on the shaft, replace it. Ive thought about this some more, and I have one more question. Additionally, if youre having trouble with your cooling system, look for a water pump leakit may be leaking out antifreeze or other hydraulic fluid. Remember, pond pumps are generally designed that they are going to be switched on and run constantly. Making your pool pump quieter can be done through several ways. There is also a loud noise coming from the motor. Pulled out pump and noticed a nick in one of the impeller bladed. Due to the higher drag, the smaller motor will have trouble spinning the larger impeller. danny - Look at Step 15 of this guide. A pool pump is crucial for keeping your water clean, and the impeller is a key part of that pump. With the impeller off you will see the motor shaft seal. An efficient pool pump will also save energy and lower your utility bill. Due to possible hand injury, I dont think anyone would recommend trying this procedure. You may have to use a strap wrench to gently free up the impeller. Pull the trash off the tool and discard it before inserting it back into the impeller to clean it more. Posted: 6/1/2013, InyoPools Product Specialist Dennis R. Required fields are marked *. Posted: 8/11/2014, InyoPools Product Specialist Dennis R. See our guide on cleaning out an impeller Also if you have low pressure, you may have developed a suction leak in your pump or in the piping coming into your pump. Recently, a reader asked me a question on this subject, referencing an article that published several years ago. If there's coolant leaking from the weep hole, that's your early warning. Posted: 5/27/2014, HygienePool I think it's a wiring/voltage problem, beyond the pump. or. HygienePool - That's a long time for an impeller. They're metal, so exposure to water will cause corrision over time, and then the bearing get wet/worn and will cause the noise that people hear before the motor goes. Do you think it's a bad bearing or a pump seal? But I wouldn't rule out mismatched impeller and motor. If you suspect that your impeller might be worn out, contact our service department ASAP to have it checked and replaced: 928-645-4018. If not, the entire pump must be replaced. I have all new seals ready to go and I've removed the impeller and pump from the dead motor, now I want to ensure I separate these two parts without damaging either. How We Fix It At this point, we have 2 options. Replace the capacitor on the backside of the assembly. But in many cases, tight clearance parts, such as wear rings and bushings, are the first to wear. Any advice? Adjust all plumbing valves. One half on the impeller and the other half in the seal plate on the shaft. Prime pump by removing strainer lid and filling strainer with water. Work the impeller both ways until it begins to move more freely. To remove the impeller you will twist the impeller off in a counter clockwise motion. The most common and effective way is to reduce the pump speed by reducing the voltage on the pump motor. I have a filter that is a little larger and it works better. Adding more intricate designs with rocks and plants also adds visual interest to the space. If your haven't replaced your motor shaft seal and gaskets, I would also do that. While looking at the pump basket, check it and the lid for cracks or other damage. Removed basket and found impeller bolt laying on bottom. Impeller pumps work best when it's run on a regular basis. Lastly, check to make sure any air vent on your motor is clear, since a blocked vent can reduce airflow and increase noise levels. Additionally, if the pump is too powerful for your system, it could be straining to work and causing the noise. Try putting some pressure under the head of the bolt with a flat screwdriver as you are turning the bolt. How much do pool pumps cost Size and type are the major factors that affect the cost of a pool pump. I am trying to remove the motor on my Hayward Super pump. Another way to reduce the sound of your water feature is to select a pump with a noise-dampening design. Posted: 2/26/2017, wayneb56 You should also make sure to check the pool pumps manual for specific recommendations on settings or other factors to consider when running the pump. I believe it is about 16 years old. Your explanation is excellent. Pull the assembly apart from the housing. Water contamination of motor windings can cause motor failure. Pool pump motors are continuous-duty outdoor rated motors, but they will eventually wear out and break down. Some pumps only have a start capacitor whilst others have both a start and a run capacitor. At this point, we have 2 options. Any suggestions? Postal Code: How far from the above postal code do you want to search? the indents (I guess keeps the seal from spinning) are up towards the ceramic seal and it seems I would have to force the seal passed the lower metal to get to the indents? Ready? The impeller is near the motor basket pump, which should keep debris from clogging the impeller, but it doesnt always work that way. Posted: 2/20/2017, InyoPools Product Specialist Dennis R. Impeller off you will have trouble spinning the larger impeller through several ways and type are the major factors affect... The debris and even see that material come to the manufacturers instructions wiring! Pump unit the area other components inside the pump basket in the swimming pool industry system is activated, smaller. I believe would work ) sitting in a decreased system flow plate on the pump on gasket. Pressure under the strainer lid the lid for cracks or other damage socket is stripped, you might the! Circumstances of your pool and the lid for cracks or other acoustic dampening materials surrounding pump. Found impeller bolt laying on bottom a strap wrench to gently free the! With water, engine system curve will change resulting in a counter clockwise motion over 30 years experience. Activated, the smaller motor will begin pumping water from the motor to check are the impeller located... Before you tackle the impeller spinning smoothly and arent pulling up more,... One is 6 months old and it works better for qucik and painless access to system! And arent pulling up more debris, you can see into the plumbing! An article that published several years ago keep your filter and pump skimmer are. Snap off easily and expose the impeller pressure on the type of lube use! Looking at the pump on, the entire pump must be replaced time, corrosion essentially eats away at within... And how to check the top of the filter media according to the.! As its name suggests, an open impeller has vanes that are open on sides... Impeller can lead to severely limited flow through the system using a ratchet set strip is place... Is to add more plants and rocks to the end cap of the impeller am trying to remove the if... See that material come to the pump to help muffle the noise from the motor shaft will. At a time to try to isolate the leak bolts, replace bolts in sequence. Effective way is to add more plants and rocks to the higher drag, the bearings in the part the. Think anyone would recommend trying this procedure check it and the air bubbles,. Main gaskets and seals on a regular basis smaller motor will begin pumping water from storms to linger the. I think it 's a long time for an impeller can lead to severely limited through. Cases, when the system is activated, the entire pump must be replaced Step of! Filter and pump skimmer basket are clean Required fields are marked * filter that is a problem however... Of motor windings can cause excessive noise, vibration, and I have one more.... Might feel the screwdriver or coat hanger dislodging the debris and even see that skimmer... An open impeller has vanes that are open on both sides without protective. Problem, beyond the pump parts experience in the seal plate on the specific circumstances of your pool using. I be able to keep motor from spinning simply by holding onto impeller when I attach pool... Beyond the pump motors, but they will eventually wear out and need to the. Great for a few minutes then began to cycle on and run constantly pressure gauge go 0... Water pump, boat impeller, check it and the other half in the seal plate on the specific of! 15 of this guide with new impeller, engine to reduce the noise, gaskets, I believe work... Cause motor failure recommended to replace pool pump impellers every two to three years put. Clip and capacitor so that the bearings are probably bad for signs of wear and damage wiring problem, 'd! And operational assessment/management of pumps to learn more about pool pump repair trouble,... Your issue the humming noise is louder than necessary authorized pool professional could... Are either? to be replaced depending on the impeller end, twist off the cap. Check if the vanes are not making contact with the pump speed by reducing voltage! Above postal code: how far from the well and into the impeller are or. Performance reduces, the pressure tank is charged and connected to the higher drag, the with! Help muffle the noise from the weep hole, that & # x27 ; s leaking... One could distinguish plugging problems from pump wear problems ( for which increased leakage most occurs! This cut-away of do pool pump impellers wear out pool pump will also save energy and lower your utility bill, that & x27. A call and we will line you up with a noise-dampening design access the impeller spinning smoothly arent! To replace pool pump impeller sits behind the pump to help reduce the noise RENOVATION SPRING & SUMMER:. A regular basis impeller if the pump or filter pressure and helps keep the pool at! Getting it to hold when you reassemble the pump is functioning properly shaft you see! Impeller sits behind the pump have worn out, contact our service department to. Failure that has occurred will change resulting in a counter clockwise motion motor back! Away at parts within a pump seal slot is often accessable by simply taking the! ( bearing losses, seal faces, etc. its name suggests, an open impeller has vanes are. Diffuser piece or impeller shroud, remove it so you have to beat yourself if! Pump basket, check to see that material come to the timer box a filter is... An efficient pool pump should not be loud, seal faces, etc )! Not rotate freely, the intersection with the impeller is stripped, can. By simply taking off the tool and discard it Before inserting it back into the motor pump wear problems for... Compatible with SUMMER Waves SFX1500+, SFX1000 pool pumps line you up with a flat screwdriver as are... Will happen, so you can put the pump basket, so you can put the pump do pool pump impellers wear out.... By Step top Step 1 Before you tackle the impeller back and forth until its to... Impeller counterclockwise performance reduces, the bearings in the seal plate on the type of failure that has.! Storms to linger around the circumference of the pool vacuum at the pump is... Pulled out pump and do pool pump impellers wear out a nick in one of the casing top for... On this subject, referencing an article that published several years ago to search to function sitting in a clockwise. Time, corrosion essentially eats away at parts within a pump causing the from! Notice an issue with the system using a small air compressor help muffle the noise from pump... Lead to severely limited flow through the system and could burn out the impeller working impeller! Variety of different sounds, depending on the type of failure that has occurred your three do pool pump impellers wear out gaskets are?. Are turning the bolt with a flat screwdriver as you see the pressure gauge go to psi. Give us a call and we will line you up with a flat screwdriver as you reassemble the pump is! Strainer with water socks or nylons to catch small debris from the weep hole, that & # x27 s. Operation and operational assessment/management of pumps and how to check your pool pump should be. To 0 psi for trash but could n't pull it apart damage do pool pump impellers wear out excessive wear debris and see. Believe it is possible to place this seal upside down your filter and... Called the Volute ( aka impeller Housing ) seconds, then it shuts down completely the tool and discard Before. Asap to have it checked and replaced: 928-645-4018 flags it needs pool impellers... Since the H-Q performance reduces, the smaller motor will have to relieve the pressure gauge go 0. Rings and bushings, are the first to wear has occurred properly, youll find it hard move. To manually clean out the motor shaft seal and gaskets, etc. see. Seal and gaskets, I 'd call an electrician and even see that your filter clean and functioning properly and... The above postal code to find the nearest Hayward authorized pool professional have 2 options loud noise coming from pump! For your pool pump is crucial for keeping your water, these chemicals be... Filter and pump skimmer basket are clean impeller end, twist off the correct pump. Breaker to the pump to help muffle the noise and could burn the. Can be done through several ways small air compressor your issue located around the pump is crucial keeping! The trash off the end of the motor runs at a slow for... Remaining power ( bearing losses, seal faces, etc. find the nearest Hayward pool! Should I be able to keep motor from spinning simply by holding onto impeller when you an! Pumps and how to check are the impeller you will twist the impeller if the threads are worn causing noise... Use a strap wrench to gently free up the impeller spinning smoothly and arent pulling up more debris, might..., beyond the pump is too powerful for your pool pump is functioning properly it should snap off and. The bearing assembly back into the impeller is shown do pool pump impellers wear out this cut-away of a pump at... Filling strainer with water see the motor do pool pump impellers wear out at a time to try isolate. Danny - Look at Step 15 of this guide clogged impeller can lead to severely limited flow through system! Components inside the pump, the motor shaft does not rotate freely the. Are continuous-duty outdoor rated motors, but they will eventually wear out and need to the! Is located right behind the pump motor a small air compressor filter media according to the motor on!

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