Swimming pool filter pumps not working

Causes

Circuit overloaded and fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped (often due to damp environment) 

Pump failed

Filters blocked

Common

Listed under: electrical, plumbing, health and safety, electrical safety, Section, swimming pools

Cause

Circuit overloaded and fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped (often due to damp environment) 

Repair

  • repair the pump without delay if you plan to keep using the pool. The pool pump takes water from the pool and puts it though a filter, allowing cleaner water to re-enter the pool. The movement of water through this process also help pool chemicals to be better distributed for good pool (and swimmer) health
  • call a registered electrician to check the pump and system and carry out any repairs as necessary
  • while homeowners can legally do this work themselves on their own property, you should only consider it if you have the knowledge, experience, skills and tools required for the job safely and effectively

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Cause

Pump failed

Repair

  • as for the repair above. Have the pump repaired or replaced

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Cause

Filters blocked

Repair

  • clean the filter following the recommendations of the filter manufacturer. Traditional filters contain sand that catches organic material such as dirt and dust, clothing fibres and hair. Sand filters typically need to be backwashed on a regular basis. Newer filter types contain a removable cartridge or a glass bead filtration media. Cartridge filters can often be cleaned with spray from a garden hose. Glass filter media are generally backwashed like sand filters
  • regardless of type, the filtration media will occasionally need to be replaced when it no longer functions properly
  • there are many steps that can help keep a pool filter cleaner for longer:
    • regularly remove debris floating on the water surface with a pool skimmer (a fine mesh net on the end of a pole)
    • regularly clear leaves or other debris out of the basket where water leaves the pool
    • use a pool vacuum to remove dirt from the floor of the pool
    • install a prefilter that catches larger particles
    • maintain a good chemical balance in the pool water. Test the water at least once a week

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