This "How to" guide explains you how to read a motor label to help you track down a new replacement. When first reading a pool pump motor label the mix of numbers, letters and ratings can be confusing, Hayward's motors are no exception to that rule. Hayward's motor labels follow the same basic traits as others but they also offer a nuance that sets them apart.
1. Tools you may need: 1. A cloth and cleaning solution is needed to remove any dirt or grime causing your pump motor label to be unreadable 2. A Shaft Seal or GOKIT when replacing your motor. Working seals and gaskets are vital to the health of your pool pump. A malfunctioning shaft seal will cause water from the pump to leak into your electrical motor causing it to fail prematurely. A GOKIT includes the complete set of your pump gaskets and O-rings, including the shaft seal.
2. When searching for a replacement pump motor the key piece of information is the motor model number. If this number is available the search becomes as simple as entering it into Inyo's search engine and clicking GO. Luckily, most motor labels come with two searchable model numbers. Hayward labels normally have a layout of the Motor Manufacturer model number listed at the upper left and Hayward's proprietary motor model number normally listed at the bottom left.
3. We will focus on Hayward's proprietary motor number first; usually found on the upper or lower left of the label. You can identify this part number by its distinct format (example, SP-1620-Z1). Beginning with 'SP' followed by four numbers, sometimes ending with a suffix of numbers and letters, is how Hayward identifies most of their products. After you've found and copied down this number enter it into Inyo's "Keyword or Part #" search, the result will be the direct replacement for your pump motor. If this identification number is unreadable, you can move onto the second model number. Note - the motor being shown in pictures is a display model, the 'DIS' would not be present on the standard motor label.
4. Now we will focus on the motor manufacturer's model number; this will be found in the upper left hand corner of the label. The format of this number normally begins with a prefix of C48, C56, K48 or K56 followed by four to nine numbers and letters. An example of this format is C48K2N140A1. Tip: this number may be preceded by an 'X', disregard this letter when completing a search. Once again this number entered into Inyo's search can provide a drop-in replacement for your pump motor.
5. In cases involving a dual speed pump the manufacturer may be Century which does not use a model number. To identify their motor you will need to locate the "Part #" on the label. The format for this is a nine digit number in the pattern of 'X-XXXXXX-XX'. Search this model number by removing the first and last two digit sets leaving the middle six. These six digits can be searched using Inyo's site for a direct replacement.
6. A search of the numbers listed above will return with results that though they should be accurate will still need to be matched to your current motor. The information most necessary to confirm compatibility is Horsepower (HP), Service Factor (SF) and Frame (FR).
7. The horsepower (HP) in a pump motor measures the power output generated similar to a car engine. The higher the horsepower the more water volume that is moved. Keep in mind that if you choose a replacement motor with a different HP then you currently have that you will need to replace the impeller and possibly the diffuser.
8. The Service Factor (SF) of a motor helps you determine the "Total HP" of its output. This is done by multiplying the horsepower by the service factor the product is the true HP of your motor. There are two separate categories of service factor ratings, Up Rated and Full Rated. An SF listed at 1.27 and below is considered Up Rated, anything above is Full Rated. When considering a motor replacement makes sure the service factor matches or there could be an incompatibility with your pump.
9. The Frame (FR) is how the flange of the pump and shaft side of the motor are configured. Most pool pumps have a frame of 48Y, 56Y, 56J or 56C. The "48" and "56" describe the diameter of the motor casing and the suffix letter is the shape of the flange. A "Y" frame is square, a "J" and "C" are round flanges. When confirming a replacement motor's compatibility be certain that the Frame does match or it will not bolt on to your pump housing.
10. Other information on the motor label that cannot be searched but still good to know: Volts - Can be listed at 115v, 230v or be dual voltage 115/230. A motor listed as dual voltage can be run at either voltage. As a rule a dual voltage motor comes preset at 230v, if you are running 115v to it change the setting before operating. Amps - This measure the power usage of your pump, the higher the amps the higher the power bill. Your specific pump model may have an Energy Efficient (EE) motor option. An EE motor can save you up to a third in electricity costs. Duty - Pool pump motors are universally rated a CONT (continuous duty). Meaning they run constantly without needing to be shut off. RPM - This stands for Revolutions Per Minute, single speed pumps run at 3450 rpm with dual speeds running at 3450 on high and 1725 on low.
11. If for some reason you are unable to read a label and these numbers listed above cannot be used you may have to go a different route. In this case we suggest you read How to determine your Pool Motor without the label.
If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!