If you’ve had your pool for a while, chances are you’re overdue for a pool pump replacement.
Pool pump technology is improving at a breathtaking pace, so if you’re looking to do a replacement anyway, you might consider upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient pool pump.
Pool pump repairs and replacements are extremely technical, so we don’t recommend most pool owners attempt them in a DIY fashion. If it’s time for a repair, consider giving us a call, and we’ll come out to perform a professional pool pump installation. Here’s an overview of the pool pump replacement process, so you can understand what’s involved and what to expect.
Step 1: Select a New Pool Pump
Choosing the right pool pump for your upgrade is a critical step.
The closer the new pump is to your current pump’s size and layout, the less complicated the installation process will be. Pump size, shape, and orientation are, therefore, one important consideration.
If energy efficiency is on your mind—and it should be—we recommend variable speed pool pumps, especially Pentair variable speed pumps. The Pentair Intelliflo pump is an incredibly quiet, efficient pump that is fully compatible with Pentair automation systems that control pumps, heating, lighting, and other pool features.
Step 2: Shut Off Power to the Pool Pump
DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP!
Shutting off the pump’s power at the breaker is vital for making sure the rest of the removal and replacement process is safe.
This is also a good time to shut off the valves at the inlet and outlet pipes.
Step 3: Relieve The Pressure In The Pump System
This is another vital step for making the rest of the process safe!
Your filter will have a pressure relief valve, generally located near the pressure gauge. Open that valve to relieve the pressure in the system.
Step 4: Disconnect The Wires To The Old Pump
WARNING: Working with electricity can be extremely hazardous! If you’re in the Thousand Oaks or Conejo Valley area, we highly recommend you allow our technicians to handle this step. If you’re not in our service area, consider contacting a trained electrician to perform this step.
With the power off at the breaker box, you’re ready to begin disconnecting the electrical components of your pump.
Once the wires are disconnected from their terminals, you’re ready to begin disconnecting the pump itself.
Take a moment to position your new, energy-efficient pool pump next to the old pump so you can see how the new one should be oriented.
Step 5: Remove The Pump
Removing the pump involves unbolting the pump from its housing and disconnecting the pipes on both the suction and pressure sides. Depending on your pump’s configuration, pump removal may involve cutting the PVC pipes so they can be aligned to the new pump.
Be sure to save the bolts! You’ll need them when it’s time to secure the new pump.
Step 6: Clean The Filter Case Housing
Debur the pipes at the cuts.
Remove debris, grease, and grime from the housing so that it’s ready to receive the new pump.
Step 7: Position The New Pump
First, hook up the suction side. Once the suction is hooked up, you can see whether or not the pipes are properly aligned or whether you’ll need to make adjustments to their length or orientation.
Glue a union onto any pipe cuts you made. The pipe must be long enough to slide 1-1/4″ into each fitting and still leave room between the fitting and the union.
Step 8: Secure The Pump In Place
Bolt the pump into its housing (aren’t you glad you saved those bolts?). Secure the pipe fittings, if you haven’t already.
Step 9: Reattach The Wiring
WARNING: Working with electricity can be extremely hazardous! If you’re in the Thousand Oaks or Conejo Valley area, we highly recommend you allow our technicians to handle this step. If you’re not in our service area, consider contacting a trained electrician to perform this step.
Double-check that the correct wires are attached to the correct terminals! If your unit is damaged during this step, you will likely void your warranty.
Step 10: Open Valves and Restore Power
Wait 2 hours after gluing the last connection before turning on the pump. As the pressure builds, uncured fittings and unions can come apart, which will make a mess and possibly damage components.
That’s it! You’re now ready to enjoy your new, energy-efficient pool pump!
If all that sounded very complicated, that’s because it is. For this reason, we strongly advise you to consider calling us. Let our experienced technicians handle your energy-efficient pool pump replacement and installation, saving you a lot of time and stress.