Equipment upkeep in the winter.

First things first, let’s talk about motors. How long do we run them, How long do they last and when is it time to replace the motor? This is an unpopular answer.

One hour for every 10° is the suggestion for all motors. Whether it is variable speed, single speed, circulation needs to be made within that time. It is best to run your pool during the day while there is sunlight because the sun plays a significant role in depleting chlorine. The circulation activates either your salt system, or circulates the chlorine from sitting stagnant, causing quicker depletion.

How long do they last? The lifespan of your motor is going to be defined by several things. If your chemicals are very far off of balance, and the filtration is weak, as in low flow. That will add wear and tear on a motor. Age and then Bad weather, often a lot of lightning in the area can cause a motor to burn out. Low water with the skimmer on and the water being below the skimmer line causing the pump to suck air for a prolonged Periods of time can shorten the life of your motor.

The time to replace a motor is going to be year-round, when the motor fails or you can hear a loud grinding noise and feel that the pool motor is overheating. The grinding noise is almost always going to be the bearings going bad and this will cause the motor to overheat and trip the breaker until it finally it goes out. Immediate replacement is suggested, considering the pool can turn green at any time of the year in Florida.

In the state of Florida, it requires a licensed contractor to legally, do repairs. When the time comes to replace your pool motor, see to it that it is done by a licensed contractor in that field.