Pump Motor Failure / Not Priming
major severitycommonDIY: yesPro repair$200–$300LA-area, parts and labor
DIY cost$15–$150parts and supplies
Typical time1 hrfor a pro
Difficulty2 / 51 is easiest
What you'll notice
- Weak water flow from return jets
- no flow at all
- pump hums but doesn't start
- water level in pump basket rises
Likely causes
- Capacitor failure preventing motor startup
- clogged or damaged impeller
- loss of prime due to suction-side air leak
How to keep it from coming back
- Keep strainer basket clean weekly
- maintain water level above skimmer
- inspect suction lines for leaks
- use variable-speed pump to reduce wear
Ranges are estimates; see How We Estimate. Affects: all.
This one can get worse if it waits, so plan to deal with it soon. If you're in the LA area, R.D. Pools offers free quotes.
Equipment involved
Maintenance that prevents it
Related costs
- Annual Pump Operation (Variable-Speed, 1.5HP, 8 hrs/day): $400–$600
- Annual Heat Pump Operation (electric heating, 6 months): $300–$600
- Pump Replacement (variable-speed, 1.5-2.5 HP): $1,200–$2,500
- Pump Motor Repair (capacitor, seal, bearing): $50–$600