Should I put cover over pool motor?

[mikemctx]

Live near Tampa Florida. Motor on a Pentair Whisperflo 1.5 HP pool pump went out after 4 1/2 years. The motor itself was very rusty. It is situated directly under the overhang of the roof so rainwater lands on the motor. Pool service company that replaced motor recommended that I install cover over motor to keep out rainwater to extend the life of the new motor. Local pool stores (Pinch-a-Penny & Leslie's) apparently have covers for about $18. Should I install a cover?

With the high temperatures in Florida I'm also concerned about getting adequate air circulation around the motor so that it doesn't overheat.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[JasonLion]

Yes, a cover would be a great idea. It does need to have plenty of ventilation.

 

[mikemctx]

Thanks Jason Lion.

Installed a motor cover yesterday. After our sprinklers ran I observed that the cover was all wet, but the motor was nice and dry under its cover. Guess I've been watering my motor twice a week - an obvious contributor to the rust and the motor's premature failure.