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A well-maintained, correctly sized pump lasts eight to 12 years. Help it reach the upper end of that range by cleaning the strainer basket, monitoring for unusual sounds, and verifying that the pump’s flow rate matches the filter's specifications. Address leaks or pressure dips quickly—minor fixes now cost far less than a premature replacement later.

Listen for grinding or screeching, watch for breaker trips, and keep an eye on sudden spikes in your electric bill—any one of these signals the pump needs attention. If repairs continue to accumulate or the unit is older than eight years, replacement often makes more financial sense. Contact a qualified pool repair professional immediately to diagnose the issue and prevent further damage to the filter or plumbing.

It’s best to keep your pool pump on while swimming. Keeping the pump on while you swim allows the filter and skimmers to catch debris in real-time, maintaining water features flowing. It’s not mandatory, but weaving swim time into your regular eight-to-12-hour schedule helps maintain crystal-clear water and consistent chemical levels without extra effort.

Start by shutting off the power at the breaker and verifying with a voltage meter. Close the water valves, bleed pressure, and unbolt the old pump. Wire the new unit according to the manufacturer's diagram, glue in the PVC unions, prime the housing, and tighten everything securely. Open the valves, flip the breaker, and watch for steady water flow and quiet operation. If any step feels beyond your expertise, consider hiring a licensed electrician or pool technician.