Why does my pool pump keep overheating and shutting off?

Overheating. For safety reasons, many pool pumps are designed to shut off automatically if they begin to overheat. The mechanisms that perform this task are known as thermal overload switches. If your pump continues to shut off, it could mean that the thermal overload switches are going bad.

Is it normal for a pool pump to overheat?

A pool pump is no different than other electric motors in that most of the energy fed into the pump is not converted into useful mechanical energy, but instead lost from the system in the form of heat. Even brand new out of the box this would be normal operation for a pool pump (or any typical electric motor).

What happens if your water pump gets too hot?

An overheating water pump can shorten the life of the motor and cause damage to surrounding piping. Even a brand new pump can get too hot and suddenly stop working and have to be replaced. Save money and hassle. Know the warning signs of an overheating pump.

Why does my pool pump not have air flow?

Lack Of Air Flow – In order for an electric motor to stay cool it draws air into the motor which passes over the electric windings. This relatively cool air helps to pull heat from the motor before passing out the back side of the pump. This is the reason that pool pumps should only be installed in areas with sufficient air flow.

Why are the bearings on my pool pump bad?

If your bearings are bad it means your pump sucked air and burnt up the seal. If bearing go out on a pool motor we change the motor because most of the time your impeller melts. This could be your issue. If the motor sucked air and overheated, you probably burnt up a seal and impeller.

What happens if your pool pump overheats?

Combine that with the fact that most pool pumps operate in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the year and you have the potential for an overheated motor. Most electric motors have a thermal disconnect which is designed to cut the power if the pump overheats which prevents the pump from catching on fire…usually.

Is it normal for pool pump motor to be hot?

Under normal operating conditions, the motor end of the pump is hot enough that you can barely touch it — but not searing hot. If you check your pool pump motor and find it is far too hot to be able to touch with your hand, that’s not good.

What to do if your pool pump is too low?

Double check the terminals at the back of the motor to ensure correct voltage. If it’s too low, either the wiring to the motor is insufficient or the power to the house is too low. You also want to check the wiring diagram on the motor.