Emergency Troubleshooting - Equipment Failures
Quick diagnostics and temporary fixes for common equipment emergencies: pump won't start, suspected leaks, and heater issues.
Pump Won't Start - First Response Checklist
Most common equipment emergency. Start with power, then mechanical.
Check main breaker panel: Is pool breaker tripped? Reset it and try again
Check GFCI outlets: Pool equipment usually on GFCI - test and reset button
Verify timer/automation: Is it scheduled to run now? Override to manual 'on' mode
Listen for humming: Hum but no spin = bad capacitor (common, $20-40 part)
Check for error codes: Digital controls may show fault codes - write them down
Inspect pump: Any burning smell? Visible damage to wiring? Water inside motor housing?
Test voltage at pump: Use multimeter if comfortable - should read 230V (or 115V for smaller pumps)
• Take photo of breaker panel BEFORE touching anything - helps restore correct state
• GFCI trips often mean moisture in pump/junction box - dry it out before resetting
• Bad capacitor is #1 pump failure - humming but not spinning is classic symptom
• If breaker trips repeatedly (3x), STOP - you have a short circuit, call electrician
• Never bypass GFCI - it exists to prevent electrocution in wet environments
• Burning smell = STOP immediately, shut off breaker, call professional
Checklist
- 1Pump won't start: Check breaker panel first, then GFCI outlets, then verify timer/automation settings.
- 2Pump starts then stops: Overheating from debris, bad capacitor, or voltage drop - inspect impeller and basket.
- 3Pump lost prime: Fill pump basket, open air relief valve, check suction lines for leaks, verify valve positions.
- 4Suspected leak detection: Bucket test (evaporation vs. loss), dye test for visible cracks, pressure test for underground lines.
- 5Heater won't fire: Verify flow sensor (clean filter), check pressure switch, confirm gas valve or breaker, read error codes.
- 6Automation/controller unresponsive: Check power at panel, verify display battery, note error messages before calling service.
- 7Filter pressure spike: Backwash or clean immediately, inspect for internal damage, verify PSI gauge is accurate.
- 8Salt cell error codes: Clean cell if below 4000 ppm reading, verify salt level is 3000-3400 ppm, check polarity reversal function.
- 9Know when to DIY vs. call pro: electrical issues, gas line problems, and internal equipment repairs require licensed technician.
- 10Create emergency contacts list now: equipment brand service numbers, local pool tech, plumber, electrician.
Related Playbooks
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