Pump Diagnostic

Why is my pump noisy?

The motor has an internal cooling fan that can be heard. When installing your pump, it is advised to carefully consider the location; under a bedroom window may not be an ideal location.
Vibration from the pump’s feet and the base (where the pump rests) can cause the pump to be noisy. A piece of old carpet or rubber between the pump’s base and equipment pad might reduce the noise.
Ensure the pump is level and the suction lines are not higher then the pump.
The bearing(s) might be noisy due to age or high concentrations of chemicals and heat. A leaky pump seal could damage the front motor bearing. It is very important to quickly repair any leaks around the pump to prevent extensive damage. It is recommended that you replace the bearings or the entire motor. Contact Excel Pool Service for repair.
Many times a noisy pump can come from cavitation. Cavitation has two possible causes, which are both hydraulically (water flow) related. The first is that the suction piping is undersized. If this pipe is undersized, the amount of water the pump requires to operate properly is reduced. Increasing the pipe size (increase water flow) or dropping the size of the impeller (decrease water flow) can quiet the pump. The second is that there is little or no backpressure on the pressure side of system (water feature pumps are a good example). Adding a valve or something to increase backpressure is advised.

For all of the above, it may be necessary to contact Excel Pool Service for assistance.

Why are there air bubbles flowing into the pool from the return fitting(s)?

If air is returning into the pool there might be a leak on the suction side of the pump. Check the following items that maybe causing air to enter the system: It may be necessary to contact Excel Pool Service for repair.

The strainer cover and O-ring. Tighten if loose or replace gasket if damaged.
Level of water in the pool is low causing water and air to mix into the skimmer..
The skimmer weir may be stuck in the up position causing water and air to mix in the skimmer.
Check the drain plugs on the pump strainer housing.
Check all of the threaded fittings for leaks from improper sealants or sealing procedures.
Check glued fittings for bad glue joints.
Check all valves for possible leaks. Valve stem O-rings are a common suction leak point.
Check and ensure the pump is not cavitating.
Check pump housing for cracks.

Why won’t my pump fill with water (prime)?

An air leak on the suction side of the pump.
Check to make sure the suction line is free of obstructions.
Check to make sure the impeller is still attached to the shaft of the motor. If the impeller has broken off, it will need to be replaced.
If the pump is installed a distance from the pool or is elevated above the normal deck level, the time needed to prime the pump could be longer. For elevated installations, a check valve may be needed on the suction line to allow for easier priming.

Can I run my pump without water?

Hayward Pool pumps should never operate without water. The pump seal assembly in the pump volute (The area between the strainer basket and the pump motor) protects the pump motor from pool water. This seal assembly gets hot and is cooled by the pool water. If the pump is running without water, the seal will overheat and melt, If left running without water for a long period of time, the heat generated could damage the PVC pipe and other system components.

Do I need to keep grass, shrubs, and vegetation away from my motor?

Always keep the pool equipment clear and ensure that there is nothing growing over the motor. If insects are a large problem in your area, treat for insects. The air circulation around the motor is crucial for proper operation. Failure to ensure proper air circulation will reduce the life of the equipment.