The equipment needed for a hot tub, spa or swimming pool can be mind-boggling to the novice pool owner. When you work with a swimming pool and hot tub service professional from Express Pool Care in Phoenix, Arizona you can rest assured that he is well-versed in the proper operation of the pool equipment and that includes the hot tub pump and motor. What you need to know about hot tub pumps and motors your pool contractor can explain on his next service visit.
At a minimum there are some items you should be aware of with the hot tub pump and motor – this will let you be aware of any changes in operation between service visits and may let you know that you need to call for a service visit.
The hot tub pump and motor work to draw water from the structure, force it into the filter, and pull it back into the water. It will be returned to the hot tub, spa or pool having had bacteria removed from the water. The hot tub pump and hot tub motor are two different pieces of equipment that work together cohesively to keep the water clean and bacteria free. The pump and motor perform separate tasks in your hot tub.
What you need to know about hot tub pumps and motors
The hot tub pump is housed in a metal case, has a motor, impellor and a strainer basket. The pool motor powers the pool pump and creates movement in the hot tub. The pool pump is generally self-priming and this means that when it starts up, it releases air from the system, creates a vacuum and continually maintains suction. If the pool pump has lost its ability to prime, it could lead to the motor overheating and damaging the pump. We will check the status of the equipment during service visits.
A variable speed pump is the friend to the pool owner! It saves money and operates only at the peak speed necessary rather than with the older single speed pumps which operate at a single speed, no matter the task.
The hot tub motor isn’t something that most owners think about… until it stops working. Here are some items to look for and to let you know when to call us for a service visit.
- If the motor is damaged by heavy rainfall, such as that we see during monsoon season. If it gets waterlogged, let it dry for at least 24 hours before you start it up. Moisture in the motor can lead to shorts in the electricity.
- If it won’t start, check for loose connections or call us to inspect it for you.
- If the motor starts, but doesn’t run this could mean the impeller is blocked or the capacitor has gone bad. We will use a multimeter to test the voltage supply at the motor and troubleshoot from there.
If you want a quick lesson on your pool or hot tub pump and motor, ask us the next time we pay a service visit.