While some people might think that a pool is a hole in the ground with water, standing water has something to say about that. Instead, the complex filtration systems inside the pool give it the clean and beautiful look we know. But for those not in the know, it’s only natural to wonder how swimming pool pumps work.
Pool pumps, otherwise known as centrifugal pumps, use electrical energy to run a motor that activates a hydraulic system. An impeller inside of the system spins, which drives the water through the system. A vacuum inside the system forms with the addition of water. The vacuum then opens, forcing through the filtration system.
While this provides a good general idea of how a centrifugal pump works, we will break down the details throughout this article.
A Breakdown of the Different Parts of a Pool Pump
To understand much of what is said above, you need to understand the parts of a pool pump:
What is an Impeller?
The impeller is the only moving part of the pump. Like a washing machine, an impeller uses the water force in combination with energy from the motor for movement.
Modern pools typically use a closed-face impeller, as their advanced technology has a higher flow rate. A higher flow rate means more water goes through the filtration system with less energy.
Different Parts of a Pump
Pumps have four different parts to be aware of:
- Motor
- Seal
- Housing
- Basket
What is a Pump Motor?
A pump motor takes electricity from another source to rotate a shaft. The rotating shaft transfers energy to the impeller, which allows it to spin.
The most efficient motors have an alternating electrical current which creates a magnetic field. The magnetic field uses the additional energy to create rotation, which results in greater efficiency.
What is a Pool Pump Seal?
Pool pump seals (o rings) are the most likely item you need to replace when a pump breaks. That’s because they are under constant pressure, as these seals’ job is to maintain the vacuum. The o-ring seals the strainer (housing) cover, preventing air from entering the pump housing and ruining the vacuum.
Water leakage is relatively common in seals. This standard replacement comes from improper alignment of the o-ring or accident dry running.
What is the Pump Housing?
The pump housing contains the pump, which is where your vacuum is. Water is forced through the pump housing while the seals and cover prevent any air from entering. If any air enters, the pump will not work correctly, and you will have leakage.
What is a Pump Basket?
A pump basket is a net that catches debris to prevent them from entering the impeller. If the impeller has any foreign objects inside of it, the entire system will malfunction.
Final Thoughts
Swimming pool pumps are what prevent your swimming pool from turning into a swamp-like fixture. Unless you are planning on turning it into an aesthetic garden, this won’t help you out. If you need help finding out what kind of pool pump will be best for you, give us a call for details.
