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How to Install & Replace a Pool Pump

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published October 14, 2024

A pool pump filters the pool water while regulating its flow and temperature. Over time, the pool pump may need upgrading or replacement. Here is a guide on the steps of pool pump motor installation and its replacement.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Different Types of Pumps

Let’s look at different kinds of pumps, there are so you can choose the best one for your needs, before we learn how to install a pool pump.

Single-speed pumps

These pumps only move at one speed. They cost less, but they use a lot of gas (electricity) and make a lot of noise.

Two-speed pumps

  • They can be manually switched between low and high RPM settings, providing a more energy-efficient option compared to single-speed pumps if utilized correctly. 
  • Two-speed pumps strike a middle ground between single-speed and variable-speed models. They offer a good mix of affordability and energy savings and they’re generally quieter than single-speed pumps when running in low-speed mode.

Variable-speed pumps

Thanks to their advanced motors and programmable digital controls, they are the most energy-efficient choice. Though they come with a higher initial cost, the energy savings over time can more than makeup for the investment. Plus, their quiet operation makes for a more peaceful pool environment.

Why Replace a Pool Pump

Before replacing the pool pump, you should determine whether the whole pump or just the parts need to be replaced.

  • If your pump is making weird noises like grinding and high-pitched screeching, there must be something wrong with the motor or bearing. 
  • If your pump is surrounded by water, it could cause a problem with the connections or seals. 
  • If the water flow is slower than usual, then the pump could be clogged or the motor could be damaged. 
  • An old pump can use a lot of energy, so check your bills to see if it's time for a new one.

Safety First

  • Wear gloves, masks and goggles to make sure any parts or chemicals do not injure you. 
  • Make sure to turn off the pump power from the circuit breaker. 
  • Use a voltmeter to make sure the power is completely off. 
  • Drain the pump from any water inside by opening its plugs on the housing. 
  • Keep the pump manual by your side to keep track of all the parts, then remove the wires connected to the motor or pump.

How to Install a Pool Pump : A Step-by-Step Guide

Remove the Old Pump

  • Safely remove the wiring from the motor and label the wires to help with reconnection to the new pump. Use a pipe wrench to remove the inlet and outlet pipes. Be careful not to damage the pipes in the process. 
  • After removing the pipes, lift the old pump and remove it. Dispose of it safely.

Caution

Make sure to turn off the pump power from the circuit breaker. Keep the voltmeter with you.

Installing the New Pump

Replacing the pool pump is only necessary when you are not changing any parts, like the motor; that is, when you do not want to repair or rebuild it any further.

  • If you are using the old plumbing, use a new connector pipe and tape it. When taping, hold the fitting in one hand and wrap the tape clockwise around it. 
  • Get a good amount of Teflon on the fittings, so when we screw it in, we won't have any leaks. If you just screw this in and if you don’t use Teflon tape, you will leak all over the opening. 
  • Put the new pipe in the openings where the plumbing is attached and tighten it with pliers to avoid any air or suction leaks. Don’t tighten it too much, as it can damage the body of the pump by squeezing it too tight, which may cause cracks to develop. 
  • Take out the new pump and attach the pipes to it. First, cover the motor or pump and use multi-purpose glue to attach it properly to the insides of the couple and outside the pipe. Wipe away the excess glue. 
  • Reattach all the wires, black (Hotwire), white (Neutral wire) and ground wire. Make sure they are not touching.

Caution

Wear rubber gloves while reattaching the wires to avoid any electrical shock.

Checking the New Pump

  • To check if it’s working well, fill the pump with water, put the pump lid back on and open the valves on the pipe one by one. Now, check if the pump is not making any unusual noises or if the pipes are leaking. 
  • The pump will automatically go to the highest setting, which is level 3 horsepower. Once the pump primes itself, it's automatically going to go back to the position we had set, by default.

Caution

Keep the power setting low at the start, as the new pump has just been installed and increase it slowly.

Maintenance

  • Inspect the pump regularly in winter for leaks, cracks or damage caused by freezing temperatures. 
  • Clean the strainer weekly to prevent debris buildup, ensuring optimal water flow and pump efficiency. 
  • Apply silicone-based lubricant to the O-rings every 3-4 months to maintain their flexibility and prevent leaks. 
  • Monitor the flow rate regularly to detect any issues like blockages or wear, ensuring the pump operates efficiently.

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