Pool pump not starting

TAandH

New member
Jun 1, 2019
3
Tennessee
Pump: Hayward Super Pump Self Priming 1.5 horse

Ok. We had a similar issue last year, and replaced the capacitor and it seemed to fix the issue. Basically, when we turn our pump on, the motor humms for a few seconds, then trips the breaker. Sometimes the impeller will start spinning, sometimes not, but I can freely turn the impeller by hand. I replaced the start capacitor again, but my problem persists. Also, the pump/motor is getting really hot.
 
Pump: Hayward Super Pump Self Priming 1.5 horse

Ok. We had a similar issue last year, and replaced the capacitor and it seemed to fix the issue. Basically, when we turn our pump on, the motor humms for a few seconds, then trips the breaker. Sometimes the impeller will start spinning, sometimes not, but I can freely turn the impeller by hand. I replaced the start capacitor again, but my problem persists. Also, the pump/motor is getting really hot.

Sounds like your motor may be shot. I'll get an expert to advise @Bama Rambler @mas985 .

Welcome to TFP! You have a lot of options if this is the case. Motor replace is cheapest. Most will advise a least upgrade to 2-speed and best is to upgrade to a variable speed motor. Also an option for the last two is to replace the pump and motor. We need more details to be more specific.

I hope this helps.

Chris
 
Also helpful is to fill out your signature with the additional information. Click on your screen name above right. Click "signature" then add the information about your pool type, capacity, and all equipment including brand and model. Then press SAVE. This information will appear at the bottom of all your posts which saves a cycle or two of questions from our experts so you get answers more quickly.

I hope this helps.

Chris
 
If it isn't the start capacitor then I would next suspect the bearings but you said the shaft turns freely so maybe not. Otherwise, the centrifugal is another possibility (if it has one).
 
I’ll have to get my son to help me with the signature thing. I wouldn’t call myself particularity techy. How would I know if my pump has a centrifugal?
 

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That motor does have a centrifugal switch. You can see the governor with springs attached. Sometime the contacts (copper strips) get corroded which prevents starting.

Also make sure both springs are working on the governor.
 
Last edited:
It looks like the motor got flooded.

You can see the heavy corrosion on the centrifugal switch weights and springs.

The capacitor looks bad.

The switch contacts are probably corroded.

The motor is about 10 years old. I suspect that you're about due for a new one.

Unless you need a lot of flow, I would recommend that you downsize the impeller and the motor or go to a variable speed pump.
 
Thanks for all the input guys. I got in there and worked the thing with the springs back and forth, then manipulated the centrifugal switch a few times manually. After that the pump turned over just fine. We know we are just biding our time with this pump, and will eventually need a new one. I need to do some more research into the pumps to decide if we need to go to a variable speed pump. We currently have a timer set on ours, so it only runs 12 hours a day, but I know I am loosing a lot on efficiency. Our pool is about 42,000 gallons.
 
12 hours per day is very likely way more run time than you need:

 
Pump: Hayward Super Pump Self Priming 1.5 horse

Ok. We had a similar issue last year, and replaced the capacitor and it seemed to fix the issue. Basically, when we turn our pump on, the motor humms for a few seconds, then trips the breaker. Sometimes the impeller will start spinning, sometimes not, but I can freely turn the impeller by hand. I replaced the start capacitor again, but my problem persists. Also, the pump/motor is getting really hot.
Looks like you need to replace the motor. Mine did the exact same thing this year. I have learned that pool supply stores mark up is very high. Try looking online if you have to buy a new one.
 

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