Replace Pool Pump Motor or Whole Pump Itself – Find Out
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Replace Pool Pump Motor or Whole Pump
Sometimes I wish my grandpa was here to see that his dear grandson had managed to make a new identity for himself, even without a degree in electrical engineering. I must admit that whatever I know about wires, circuits, and repairing gadgets would not have been possible without his help.
My grandfather was a competent electrical expert, and deep down, he wanted me to follow his footsteps. But he never forced his decision on me or either of his grand children for that matter. So, when I told him that finance is what I want to have my career in, he encouraged me in every possible manner.
I still remember the days when I used to visit my grandparents’ home during summer and winter vacations. We had only two tasks. The first was to eat amazing dishes that my grandma used to cook, and the second was to watch my grandpa with his tools, working in his workshop and doing all the small and big chores of his home.
It was here that I held a screwdriver for the first time. Of the two brothers, I had an extreme interest in these things. So, my grand old man was too happy to take me in as an apprentice. It was his training that increased my interest in these matters. I had no idea that his teaching will come in handy after so many years.
Replace or purchase: Which is a better option
Here, I will not talk about any repair work that I had accomplished in the recent times. I will share my thoughts and experience with pool pumps and its motors, which, if not maintained properly, can give you a sleepless night. Not to forget that their repair will burn a hole in your pocket. As I am not a certified expert, I have learned from my personal experience. Last week I went to visit my in-laws home. They too have a pool, and as a normal pool owning family, they too were having problems with it. I teased my wife by saying that her parents invited me so that they can save the cost of repair specialist.
The First Look Says It All
As soon as I looked at the pool pump, I was sure that my father-in-law takes good care of the pump, at least the exterior parts. I guess the older generation understands that if you maintain a machine, it will give better results. We have a thing or two to learn from them. Last time we built a pump shed and it was just new, and the outer surface was dirt free. There were no signs of any damage.
Enquire About The Age Of The Pump
It is an essential factor that will play a pivotal role in deciding whether to change only the motor or to opt for a new pool pump. If the age of the pool pump is more than ten years, then the chances are high that you need to replace the entire pump set, provided all the parts have issues. If the pump is relatively new, but still it does not run smoothly or does not filter water well, then it is time to consider replacing the motor.
Finding The Right Parts
Each pool pump has different motors and parts. With the advent of new pool pumps, some older models are no longer manufactured. According to me, if the pool pump motor you require is not available in the market, then it is better to change the entire pump. If you fail to get the motor from the spare part market, then the chances are high that the other parts are also not available. Search the regular stores and online portals before taking the final decision.
The pool pump that my in-laws have is only six years old. Still, it was creating a lot of noise. The filter was also not doing its job a well. I asked my father-in-law about the last time he cleaned his pool pump filters. Thanks to my experience with pool filters, I was able to fix the filter issues in a jiffy. It meant that once I fixed the motor, the pump will be as good as new.
Analyzing the cost of repairs
If you ask me, you should only consider replacing the pump motor or any other part if the entire replacement cost will be less than 75% of the total price of the pump. I will never repair my pump if the restoration costs are too high. I can use the money to install a new pump. So, I took a quick look at the motor model and searched the online stores. The price was well within $800.
My mother-in-law had already slipped in the message that she was only ready to shell out $800 on the motor. I had a fair idea about the repairman they had in mind. Frankly speaking, I want to lead a peaceful life. If I had declined to offer my assistance, my wife would have driven me out of my own home. I believe in the saying “happy wife…happy life!”
All these points will assist you to make the final decision – whether it is better to replace the motor or to get a new pool pump. It primarily depends on the problem. If a quick motor replacement fixes the issue, then you need not worry about installing a new pool pump. But if the pool pump requires a number of changes, then it is better to contact a specialist who can install a new machine.
If you do not have any issues with screwdrivers, wires, and do not mind putting in some elbow grease, then you can do it yourself. Just read some step by step guides online or follow the handbook that comes with the pool pump. If you still have any doubts, you can get in touch with your “friendly neighborhood pool man.” I don’t mind dropping by for a few minutes. LOL!!
