New Pentair Challenger 3hp Pump Motor from Inyopools Won't Turn

Installed a new Pentair Challenger 3hp single speed pump from Inyopools to replace the same model.  The voltage at the timer output is 225 (across 2 and 4) and is 223 at the motor (across L1 and L2).  The motor does not turn.  After powered on at timer switch a humming occurs at the motor for about 20 seconds and then the 220 breaker flips.  Any ideas why a new pump motor won’t turn?

Hello Darrin - Sorry to hear about your pump not working. There are a couple things you can check. If neither one is the issue, it may be a defective motor/pump. In that case, you can contact our customer support at 407-834-2200 and they can assist you with a replacement.

  1. The issue may be a bad capacitor. If so, that part can easily be replaced without having to replumb. Check out our article titled “How to Test a Pool Pump Capacitor”.

  2. Check the gauge of the wire being used to power the pump. 12 gauge should be used on runs of up to 50’. 10 gauge should be used on runs of up to 100’ Anything beyond 100’ should be wired with 8 gauge wire.