Safety first. Keep people out of the water while the circulation system is off. Do not remove covers, open a filter, touch wiring, bypass a breaker, or work on a pressurized system unless you are trained and qualified.
Start with observations
- Check whether the pump is scheduled to run. Verify the timer, automation panel, or app shows the expected schedule and that the clock is correct.
- Look at the breaker and any local disconnect from a safe, dry position. If a breaker has tripped, do not repeatedly reset it. A repeated trip needs a qualified electrician or pool technician.
- Check for obvious conditions around the equipment: standing water, damaged cords or conduit, burning smell, unusual heat, or a flooded motor. If you see any of these, keep clear and call for service.
- Note what happens when the pump is commanded on: silence, a click, humming, a brief start, or an error message. Record the make, model, and exact code; do not guess at a repair.
Stop before the hazardous steps
Do not open a junction box or motor housing, test live voltage, remove a filter lid, loosen plumbing, or disassemble the pump from this checklist. The U.S. Department of Energy pump guidance calls for disconnecting and verifying de-energization before electrical work and warns that trapped air can create an explosion hazard during start-up.
What to give a technician
- Equipment make and model, controller type, and any displayed code.
- Whether the breaker trips immediately or after running.
- Recent storms, power interruptions, leaks, freezing weather, or maintenance.
- Photos taken from a safe distance, with labels visible and covers closed.
Sources and limits
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Follow the equipment manual and local electrical code. For chemical and circulation safety, see CDC pool safety guidance.