One good thing about most of the systems in or around your home is that they start making noise when things are going wrong. Your pool pump is no exception. When it’s in good order, the only thing you should hear is a pleasant little hum and the burble of running water. Here are some noises to pay attention to and what they might mean. If you hear them, don’t hesitate to call your pool service for help. Letting problems go for too long can cause your pump to fail, and replacing a pool pump is expensive.
Screeches and Squeals
As with screeches and squeals you’d hear from your AC, these noises usually mean that your pump’s motor bearings are in bad shape. This can be because they’re old, or moisture has gotten into them and caused damage.
Choking Sounds
If your pump sounds like it’s being strangled, it’s probably because water isn’t getting into it, and it’s just pulling in air. Noticeable gurgling and whining sounds also mean that air, not water, is coming into your pump. This can happen because the water level in your pool is too low, there’s a leak in the pump’s suction, or there’s some obstruction that’s not letting enough water in. By the way, air coming into your pump is properly called cavitation.
Humming That’s Too Loud
Gentle humming is a normal sound for your pool pump, but if you can hear humming from the other side of your yard, there’s a problem. It’s even more worrisome if you don’t hear the rush of water. Loud humming noises can mean that the breaker in your circuit box tripped, or the impeller has a jam. The impeller is supposed to spin and push water through the filter. Another problem may be that the electrical capacitor isn’t working. This is a tiny part that stores electric energy and releases it when it’s needed. When it doesn’t work, your pump’s motor can struggle to turn on.
Rattles or Grinding
Rattling or grinding are signs that there’s trash in the pump. Debris such as pebbles, dead bugs or plant material may be caught in the blades of your pump’s impeller. The fittings inside the pump also cause a racket when they come loose. They may even cause the pump to vibrate.
As with your HVAC system, fridge, washing machine or dishwasher, weird noises mean your swimming pool pump needs attention. Contact your pool contractor for diagnosis and service. When you need pool equipment services in Tallahassee, FL, contact Terry’s Pool Service.