Smoking pool pump

Pool Equipment
1

My pool pump popped the circuit breaker, and when I reset it it popped it again and there was smoke from the motor.

I am going to check out the motor next, but I wanted to get an idea of replacement cost.

The main label on the pump body has:
MCenturion for PacFab
Part: 8.-168786-07
Serial: 8N11-214 (or BN11-214)
Cust P/N 35-5394

The front housing cracked a few years ago and I replaced it, so it is in good shape. There was a leak in a pipe and the motor may have gotten wet. I’m checking now. The motor is 2hp ( I suspect more than what is needed for 15k to 20k gallon pool?) and is 22 years old. If I need a new pump, what are my options? Are any of the new high efficiency dual or variable speed motors a drop in replacement for this pump? Our electricity is very expensive, so I would like a more efficient motor. Thanks.

2

Hello Prmiller - The replacement motor would be model B2843. That is a full rated 2HP motor. This should be more than enough for your pool size.

If you are looking for a more energy efficient option, we recommend the Pureline Prime model PL2606. This is a 2.7HP variable speed pool pump. It is Energy Star certified and rebates are available from most power companies.

3

I there a more efficient drop in replacement motor, or do you always have to replace the rest of the pump to match a different (dual or variable speed) motor?

Thanks.

4

The most energy efficient drop-in replacement motor is part number ECM27SQU. This is the 2.7HP Century V-Green motor.

5

The pump is only $160 more than the motor alone in this case. My existing pump is 20 years old. Do they last forever, or is it time to replace it?

Also, if I replace it do I need one that powerful? I think the existing 2hp was overkill for our 12K to 15K pool with spa. Is that still the best pump our should I go down a size?

Thanks.

6

The pumps can last a long time but 20 years is really good for a pump. The 2.7 variable speed is not overkill because you have a spa. Those spa jets require more flow. You’ll still save a lot of power by running it on low speeds the majority of the time.

7

What is the relative difference between the Pureline Prime model PL2606 and the Pureline PL2516?

I know it is 2.7hp compared to 2.0hp. Are there other quality differences? I do think our current 2.0 is probably overkill. Unfortunately our utility is not currently offering a rebate. I’m trying not to overbuy, but I want something that will last.

Thanks.

8

The motor and the pump housing on the PL2606 is a better design and more durable than the PL2516. I wouldn’t worry about the 2.7 being overkill. Chances are you won’t have to use the highest speed.