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Why is My Pool Pump Not Working Efficiently?

4 Filter Pump Troubleshooting Tips

Efficient water circulation is crucial for maintaining the cleanliness of your above ground pool. When issues arise between your filter pump and pool, it can lead to long-term problems that affect your water quality and the lifespan of your filter pump.

Whether your water flow isn’t as strong as it used to be or the water is struggling to circulate at all, there are a few things to check to resolve the issue:

1. Filter Cartridge

A dirty filter cartridge can prevent proper water flow. Take out your filter cartridge and inspect it thoroughly to see how much dirt and debris is trapped in the folds. If you see trapped dirt, grab your garden hose and clean the filter to remove all debris.

If your filter cartridge looks “beyond repair” and isn’t getting clean no matter what you do, it may be time to replace it with a new one. Filter cartridges should be checked every week and replaced every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how often you’re using your pool.

2. Strainers

Next, check to see if there’s any debris that’s caught in the inlet and outlet strainers and the strainer basket. Remove these parts from your filter pump, empty the basket and rinse them thoroughly with your garden hose to ensure all debris is gone. After they’re dry, reinsert the parts into the pump.

Cleaning your strainer basket should be part of your weekly routine since a clogged strainer basket forces the pump to work harder to cycle the water, which in turn decreases the water flow.

Cleaning the inlet and outlet strainers should be part of your regular pool maintenance routine, ideally every 3-6 months.

3. Hoses

If cleaning the filter cartridge and strainers doesn’t improve the water circulation, check to see if anything is blocking the hoses that could prevent water flowing through.

If there’s blockage in one or both hoses due to a buildup of dirt, debris or algae, disconnect the hose(s) from the pump and follow these steps:

A. Put on latex gloves and a mask and grab some bleach

B. Grab a container that’s capable of containing the entire length of the hoses

C. Fill the container with a 1:4 solution of water and bleach (diluting the bleach with water reduces harmful fumes and the strength of the bleach to create the ideal cleaning and disinfecting solution)

D. Submerge the hoses in the solution for 20 minutes

E. Rinse the hoses thoroughly, both inside and out, with a garden hose

After following these steps, if you’re still seeing buildup, repeat the steps as necessary.

4. Leaks

Lastly, you’ll want to check for any leaks that may be affecting the water pressure. If there’s any water leakage from the hoses or any of the connection valves, investigate to find out what is causing the leak.

Do a full inspection of your filter pump and all the individual parts. If you find any cracks or damage, replace the parts as needed.

If the filter pump appears to have extensive damage, you’ll need to replace the entire pump.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you can ensure your pool pump operates efficiently, keeping your pool water clean and clear, summer after summer!