Single Speed/Two Speed Vs Variable Speed Pumps
SINGLE-SPEED/TWO-SPEED VS. VARIABLE-SPEED PUMPS
Just because you own a swimming pool and use it every day doesn’t mean you know a lot about the parts and components inside—after all, not everyone who owns and drives a car is a mechanic. Fortunately, the skilled technicians and electricians at Hawkins Service Company of Tampa know pools inside and out. Let us take care of your pool pump and motor needs to keep your pool sparkling clean and warm all year round. Call us at 813-871-6610 to learn more about our pool services.
If you have an older pool, you probably have a single-speed or two-speed pump. These traditional pumps have been used for decades, and although they are the least expensive to purchase they are also extremely noisy and inefficient. If you want to save money on your electricity bill and enjoy a quieter and more comfortable pool, contact Hawkins Service Co. about replacing your single- or two-speed pool pump with a variable-speed pump.
Variable-Speed Pumps
Variable-speed pumps utilize a permanent magnet motor, the same type of motor used in electric cars. These pump also automatically adjust themselves to the level of water flow necessary for your pool at any given time, which makes for a quieter and more energy-efficient pool pump. Here are some of the main observations our customers make about their new pool pump after installing a new variable-speed pump:
- Quieter
- More efficient
- Longer lasting
- Digitally controlled
- Big savings on electric utility bills
Pool Pump Troubleshooting Tips
Pool pumps and motors can last for up to a decade before needing to be replaced. However, depending on your maintenance schedule and a few other factors, you may experience problems with the pump and/or motor much sooner. Either way, here are some tips for troubleshooting some of the most common pump and motor problems.
Pump Performance – If the pump isn’t pumping water like usual, check the skimmer baskets for heavy debris. If the skimmer basket is clear, turn off the motor and reach into the pump basket to feel if it’s clogged with debris. If not, contact an electrician to disassemble and inspect the motor and pump assembly.
Noisy Motor – If your pump makes a grinding noise during operation, it probably means the pump is starved for water. Check inside the pump, if possible, to find the cause of the obstruction that is blocking water flow to the pump. A noisy pump can also be the result of internal components striking one another, which will typically require you to purchase a new pump.
Motor Cycling – If the motor runs for a short while, then shuts itself off and turns itself back on repeatedly, it may be overheating. Low voltage is one of the main causes of an overheating pump motor, so schedule an inspection with a residential electrician to check the electrical supply connectors and wiring.