A pool pump is needed to keep the water in a pool clean. The pump pulls water through the filter so that it can be cleaned and then returned to the pool itself. While the pump needs to be in good working order at all times in order for your pool water to be cleaned, it can also break down easily due to its constant wear and tear.

While in some cases a pool pump may need to be replaced when it fails to work properly, there may be some quick fixes you can handle on your own. Simple maintenance can also keep the pool pump in good working order. Note the following.

1. Water is leaking from the pump

Very often this is caused by a defective O-ring that is under the plugs of the pump. You can undo the plug and note if the O-ring is thin or has even slipped out of place. If so, you need to simply replace the o-ring and be sure to tighten the plug. The plugs may have also simply come loose, so if the o-ring looks to be in good repair, give the plugs a good tightening and note if this addresses the problem.

2. The motor doesn't work

If the pump doesn't come on at all, this may be because the strainer basket is full and is preventing the proper flow of water. Shut off the pump and remove the basket and clean it of any excessive debris. Remove anything that may have gotten stuck in the opening to the strainer and then replace it, and turn the pump back on. Be sure you keep the strainer clean to keep the motor from shutting off this way; check it every day or at least every week so you know it's always clean.

3. Excessive noise

When bearings in any type of motor begin to fail, they often make a very irritating, high-pitched squealing sound. Your pool pump motor has bearings and if you notice excessive noise from the motor, this is usually the fault of the bearings. It's good to keep the pump properly lubricated so the bearings do not get worn too quickly, but once they begin to squeal like this, you usually need to have them replaced.

A grinding noise can mean that something has gotten caught in the motor. Open the valves to the pump and note if there is any debris; if not, you may need to call a repair company like Shenton Pumps to determine the cause of the grinding sound.