Pool Pumps are the driving force behind every pool’s filtration system. At the center of every pool pump is a pump motor.
Pump motors are the workhorse of your pool: creating a strong suction to pull water into the pool filter, which then pushes filtered water back into the pool. Wear and tear over the years may eventually lower the efficiency of your pump, making it time for a change!
The complex world of pool pump motors can deter people before they ever begin the search. Many opt to purchase a completely new pool pump instead of simply replacing the motor.
Here at PoolSupplyWorld, we recommend that you contact us with the following information to find the exact motor for your pool pump. This information will not only take the guesswork out of finding a pool pump motor. It will guarantee that you have everything you need to make your pump as good as new!
What information do you need?
- Pump Model Number – The Pump Model Number is located on the “wet end” aka front housing of the pool pump. This is typically stamped in the pump housing or on a sticker label.
- Motor CAT Number – The CAT (catalog) Number is located on the motor itself. The CAT number will match the Product SKU number on PoolSupplyWorld.
- Motor Model or Part Number – The Motor Model or Part Number is also located on the motor label. This number will help narrow down the search when speaking to a trained expert at PoolSupplyWorld.
- Send a photo of the entire pump and motor label – Take a photo of the entire pump, including the pump housing, strainer pot and lid. This image will also provide important information when searching for the correct motor model. If possible, include an image of the motor label, as well. When speaking with an expert at PoolSupplyWorld, please send the photos to: [email protected].
What else is needed to change a pump motor?
Always change the seals/o-rings (shaft seal, mechanical seal, etc.) when installing a new motor into your pool pump. To make this process easier, PSW offers Go-Kits with every seal needed for your pool pump. Keep in mind that these seals are specific to your pump model, not the motor. O-rings can deteriorate over time and will begin to crack or leak. All you need to know is the pump model name, not the motor, to find the correct Go-Kit.
Here is an example of the Pentair WhisperFlo Go-Kit:
- Seal Plate O-Ring (O-304)
- Diffuser O-Ring (O-359)
- Impeller O-Ring (O-186)
- Shaft Seal (AS-1000)
- Lid O-Ring (O-108)
- Seal Plate O-Ring (G-143)
- Lid O-Ring (O-318)
Some of the most common Go-Kits are:
- Hayward Super Pump Go-Kit – Only K1024
- Hayward Super II Go-Kit – Only K1013
- Pentair WhisperFlo Go-Kit – Only K1027
- Polaris PB4-60 Booster Pump Go-Kit – Only APCK-1070
- Pentair Challenger Go-Kit – Only K1046
Pool Pump Illustration
Keep in mind that Pool Pumps have many moving parts. Below is an example of a dis-mantled Pool Pump, including the seals.
Can I upgrade my motor from single to dual-speed?
This is one of the most common questions we hear regarding pool pump motors. Motors and pumps need to be appropriately matched to perform properly. Many of the internal parts (ie. impeller and possibly the diffuser) are sized to fit the original motor. That being said, we highly discourage upgrading the motor size due to potential mechanical issues. Another factor to keep in mind – can your pool filter handle the increased horsepower? If you are interested in more horsepower or a Dual or Variable Speed Pump, you may want to invest in an entirely new pool pump.
Need help finding the right motor? Contact Us!
Now that you have found the correct information, please contact our experts with PoolSupplyWorld to ensure you have everything you need to replace an old pool motor.