In this guide you will learn how to identify your pool motor without the label. If your pool pump motor is exposed to the elements there is a good chance that the motor label may become too faded to read. When that pump motor then fails it can be difficult to find a replacement without model numbers listed on the label. If this is the case there are a couple of ways to identify your pool pump and motor to find a match.
1. Tools you may need: 1. A basic tool kit, one that includes a screwdriver and a wrench. 2. A working knowledge of pool pump. If you are unsure about some pieces of this guide and how to complete a task, feel free to read one of our other guides linked in the steps.
2. The easiest way to determine your pump model is by finding the part number on the strainer lid. The lid may be unique to your style pump in that case you already have part of the equation. With that information you would only require the horsepower of the pump to determine a suitable motor match. In the meantime you can use the model information to search for any other parts of the pump you may need. Perform the strainer lid part number inquiry through Inyo's engine; this will bring up any results to be had. If the lid is not unique and is a universal part for a manufacturer's entire line of pumps then you will have to do more digging. Specifically we will need to remove the impeller. Information of this part will provide the make, model, and HP of your pump motor.
3. If the lid is not unique and is a universal part for a manufacturer's entire line of pumps then you will have to do more digging. Specifically we will need to remove the impeller. Information of this part will provide the make, model, and HP of your pump motor.
4. The next few steps are a brief overview of how to get to the impeller.
5. To remove the impeller you must disassemble your pump. Warning: Before disassembling your pump disconnect all power to the motor. This will prevent the motor from accidentally firing. Also spark the capacitor to relieve any residual charge.
6. Relieve the pressure that is on the pump by releasing the pressure valve on the filter. Water will spray from the valve for a few seconds, hold until the pressure gauge reads 0 psi.
7. Remove the bolts that connect the motor to the pump housing.
8. After the motor is removed you should see the diffuser and diffuser gasket. If not they may still be in your pump housing. Note: above ground pool pumps do not have diffusers. To access the impeller remove the diffuser. It should pop off by pulling it straight up.
9. Now we are presented with the impeller itself, these are the part of the motor that turns the spinning action for the motor into usable pulling force to draw the water.
10. Locate the impeller part number located on its face. This piece of info is the key to finding a motor replacement. Using Inyo's search engine input this part number and the result should the part which will be linked to info such as the manufacturer, pump model, and horsepower. With this information in hand you can then locate your motor number through our pump motor section.
11. Reassemble your pump by first inspecting the diffuser gasket, if warped our worn, replace. Add lube if necessary. Place diffuser into place over the impeller, before inserting into housing, check to be certain it is sitting securely in place.
12. Replace the capacitor on the backside of the assembly. Make sure the plastic strip is in place between the clip and capacitor so that the capacitor does not short out.
13. Replace the four bolts back into place. If bolts were numbered 1 through 4, replace bolts in this sequence - 1, 3, 2, and 4 - to ensure that the motor is set properly inside the housing. Loosely tighten bolts in this sequence, then go back and tighten them down again in this sequence. If pump has 6 bolts, replace bolts in this sequence - 1, 3, 5, 2, 4, 6
14. Prime the pump by filling the strainer basket with water using bucket or garden hose.
15. Check wiring connections for any loose pieces. If OK, reset the circuit breakers and start the pump.
If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!