Should You Hire A Professional To Maintain Your Pool Pump?
Posted on: 21 June 2017
If you have a pool in your garden, you're probably already aware of the importance of having your pool pump professionally installed. DIY versions do exist, but they can be unreliable and at times even dangerous—so it's vital to get the experts in to make sure it's done properly. Once your pump has been installed, however, it can be tempting to think that you won't need professionals any longer! But is that actually the case? Read on to learn more about professional pool pump maintenance and when it's time to book an appointment.
When your pool pump is making an odd noise
Pumps can be noisy machines, but there shouldn't be any grinding or shrieking noises. If you're hearing something like that, it's important to get it checked out ASAP—it's probably an issue with the ball bearings, and it's very dangerous for most people to deal with them alone.
When your flow rate seems to have changed
You probably already know that bigger isn't always better when it comes to pool pumps—one with too much horsepower can risk damaging your plumbing. You do want enough horsepower to your pump, though, which is one reason professional advice is so important when you have a pump installed. If that flow rate changes, start by checking and cleaning the filters and looking for air in the pump basket. If neither of those things are apparent, call someone in to have a look for you.
When you can see air in the pump basket
Many pool pumps come with clear baskets that allow you to see what's going on inside. Air bubbles often build up inside them over time, and these can impair the pump's efficiency and potentially damage your pump or plumbing. If you discover that some of your drains are missing an o-ring or that your pool's water levels are down, dealing with those issues on your own will probably fix the issue; otherwise, get a professional in to deal with it for you.
When your pool pump is nearing ten years old
Pool pumps can keep working for fifteen or twenty years-—but the motors inside them only generally last 8-10. When the motor gives out, you'll see differences in the water flow, hear a strange noise and generally find that your pump is working much less effectively and possibly stopping altogether. Many people make the mistake of replacing the whole pump when actually only the motor needs to be changed, so get a pro from a company like Coastal Pumps & Irrigation in to have a look for you and tell you what needs to be done.
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