Stuck or Noisy Pump

A pump that won’t start or has started making noise is telling you something specific — here’s how to read the signs before calling a professional.

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Pump Won’t Start or Hums

Check the breaker and any pump timer settings first, since a tripped breaker is the most common cause of a dead pump.
Look for a stuck impeller by checking if the pump motor hums but the shaft doesn’t spin; debris can jam it.
Let the motor cool down for 30 minutes if it feels hot to the touch, since many pumps have thermal overload protection that shuts them off.
Call an electrician or pool professional if the motor still won’t start after these checks, rather than opening the motor housing yourself.

Safety note: Always shut off power at the breaker, not just the pump switch, before doing any hands-on inspection.

Check the pump lid O-ring and lid seal for cracks or debris, since a bad seal is the most common cause of losing prime.
Inspect the strainer basket and skimmer baskets for clogs that could be starving the pump of water.
Listen for a grinding or squealing noise specifically at startup, which often points to worn pump bearings needing replacement.
Check that the water level in the pool is high enough to keep the skimmer from sucking air.

Safety note: A pump that grinds loudly should be shut off and inspected before continued use, since a failing bearing can damage the motor shaft.