Noisy Pool Pump? Here's How to Get Some Peace and Quiet

Posted on: 20 July 2017

A pump is an absolutely essential part of your pool setup – unless, that is, you want unhygienic, discoloured water that will quickly be overtaken by algae, which isn't something that most people find very appealing.

Most of the time, the pump will sit there doing its job and you're likely to forget it even exists. Unfortunately, sometimes they're so loud, you can't ignore them. Which is less than ideal if you use your pool to relax, as the noise of the pump is more likely to increase your stress than form a part of its reduction.

If your pool pump is operating at an annoyingly loud volume, there's a chance there's something wrong with it, especially if it used to be quieter. And there may be something you can do to reduce its racket.

What's the pump sitting on?

The easiest problem to fix is one that's often overlooked. As a pump vibrates while it's operational, it can make a startlingly loud noise if it's on a hard surface. This is especially the case if the surface is uneven or if there are loose stones or gravel. All you need to do is put some sort of sort mat underneath it – linoleum works well, or even a sturdy mouse mat.

Clean out the filter

A dirty filter can sometimes stop the filter from sucking in as much water as it should, which can make it operate much more loudly. The filter should be easy to locate and clean, which may just fix your problem.

Check for blockages

Look at the impeller for any blockages or bits of debris that could be rattling around. Also, check all the lines for blockages that could be impairing performance.

Check the bearings

The bearings inside the motor can wear away over time, which will make it a lot louder. This can be difficult, so if you're not sure what you're doing, make sure you get a professional who does pump repairs to look at it for you. If the bearings can't be replaced, it might be time for a whole new pump.

Build some housing

If you've managed to ascertain that there's nothing wrong with the pump, constructing a simple wooden surround for it can be surprisingly effective at making it quieter. It doesn't have to look pretty if you're no master craftsman, as long as it does the job. Just make sure you leave gaps or holes for the lines and don't fully enclose it as it will need some ventilation to prevent overheating.

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