Your pool pump and filter play a significant role in keeping your pool clean. However, they can be sluggish after sitting all winter long. If you do not give these pieces of equipment the necessary TLC, you risk system failure that can grind your backyard barbecue to a halt. Spending the time now to get your pump and filter ready can make certain that you avoid any unnecessary stress and high repair bills.

Giving Your Pump a Fresh Start

Your pump has likely been home to a few spiders or even a stray mouse over the winter. So the first thing you need to do is clear out the debris. Open the pump lid and pull out the plastic basket to give it a good scrub with a garden hose to remove any dried leaves or hitchhiking bugs.

You should take a close look at the rubber O-ring under the lid. If it looks flat or has tiny cracks, your pump will struggle to prime and might pull in air bubbles. Rub a bit of silicone lubricant on that seal to keep it soft and ensure a tight fit before you flip the power switch back on.

If the pump starts making a loud, grinding noise that sounds like a bag of rocks, those are your bearings crying out for help. You should address that before the motor seizes up entirely.

Deep-Cleaning the Filter Media

Whether you have a diatomaceous earth (DE), sand or cartridge filter, you must give it a deep clean. Running it under a hose will not be enough to remove the dirt, grime and other buildup. Over time, body oils, sunscreen and minerals turn into a sticky mess that glues the filter media together and makes your pump work twice as hard to push water through. The harder your pump works, the more your electric bills can increase since the motor uses more energy. Soak your cartridges in filter degreaser or sand cleaner overnight to get rid of all that buildup.

Checking the Plumbing for Leaks

While the system is running, walk around the equipment pad and look for any tiny drips coming from the PVC joints or the heater connections. Winter temperatures cause plastic to expand and contract. This can easily loosen a union or crack a small valve that was fine last September.

You might notice a small puddle forming under the main return line. While it seems minor, that constant leak can wash away the dirt under your equipment pad and cause the whole system to tilt. Use a bit of pool-grade pipe sealant on any threaded parts that are weeping water to keep the pressure where it belongs. Keeping the water inside the pipes instead of on the concrete helps your yard stay dry and prevents your pump from running dry and melting its internal seals.

Once you can confirm your pump and filter are running well, you can put away the tools and cleaning solutions and grab your favorite floaty. Then you can use your time to relax with family and friends. If you live in Naples, FL or a surrounding area and need pool equipment services, make your first call to Pool Service Unlimited.