Pool pumps are an essential piece of equipment for keeping your pool water clean. When a pool pump begins to falter or wear out, you’ll need to replace it. This often means finding and purchasing the proper pool pump shaft seal. But if you’re unfamiliar with your pool pump’s components, you might struggle to pick the right one.
In this guide, I’ll explain what the pool pump shaft seal is and how it works. I’ll also address when you might need to replace your pool pump shaft seal and how to find the right one for your swimming pool.
Main Takeaways
- You can usually find your pool pump shaft label on the exterior pump to ensure that you get the right model number.
- You’ll need to replace your pool pump shaft every time you replace your pool pump motor.
What is a Pool Pump Shaft Seal?
A pool pump shaft seal is a small circular piece of metal and rubber that adheres to the pool pump’s impeller and motor shaft. Here’s an example of one that I sketched.
This small part is essential, as it keeps water from entering the pool pump motor. Without the right-sized pool pump shaft seal, your new pool pump motor will likely flood and malfunction.
When To Replace Your Pool Pump Shaft Seal
You should replace your pool pump shaft seal every time you replace your pool pump motor. Sometimes, a worn pool pump shaft seal could lead to motor failure. Consequently, replacing your pool pump shaft seal at the first sign of damage might also be a good idea.
While pool pump shaft seals are made to withstand high speeds and moisture, they’re not infallible. These components can begin to tear, flake, and deteriorate after prolonged exposure to chlorinated water or fast-moving motor shafts. When this happens, the seal no longer keeps water from getting inside the motor, causing the motor to take on moisture and eventually break down.
Maintaining your pool pump components, including the shaft seal, could be the best way to extend your pool pump motor life. However, you’ll need to find the proper replacement shaft seal when maintaining your pool pump. Choosing a shaft seal that’s the wrong size or shape can be disastrous.
Fortunately, most pool and pool pump manufacturers use specific components for each make and model. This practice helps eliminate accidental pairings and motor failures. However, to pick up the right-sized shaft seal, you’ll need to have your pool pump’s make and model information on hand.
How To Find the Right Pool Pump Shaft Seal
Generally, you’ll only need to do two simple things to find the proper pump seal:
- Locate your pool pump’s label
- Order a replacement pump shaft seal
You might know the make of your pool pump but struggle to find the model number. That’s because a pool pump’s make is often painted along the outside of the pump, but the model number might be embossed or printed in far smaller text along the pump’s rims, body, or internal components.
In most cases, you can find your pool pump’s label on the exterior of the pump housing. This label often features the brand name or maker’s name, electrical information, and helpful specs. It should also list the make and model of the precise pool pump.
The motor model number isn’t particularly helpful when searching for a new pool pump shaft seal. That’s because pool pump motors aren’t nearly as specialized as pool pumps.
For example, you could find a shaft seal that fits a wide range of popular pool pump motors, but struggle to find one that neatly attaches to your pump’s impeller. That’s why it’s crucial to find the pool pump model number, not the pool pump motor identification number.
If you can’t locate your pool pump’s label, you may struggle to enjoy a quick and easy pool pump repair. Luckily, you might be able to find the identification number you’re looking for by taking a closer look at your pool pump’s parts.
How To Find a Pool Pump Shaft Seal Without a Label
If you can’t find a label on your pool pump, you can still find a replacement shaft seal that works. You’ll simply need to examine your pool pump’s various components and look for a series of identification numbers.
Most pool pump parts are stamped with helpful model identification numbers. You might be able to find this number multiple times while looking at the following:
- Plastic pump housing
- Pump strainer lid
- Pump strainer basket
- Impeller
- Diffuser
If you’re planning on replacing your worn-out pool pump motor and shaft seal without professional assistance, you’ll likely end up disassembling the impeller and diffuser from the body of the motor.
After all, your new shaft seal connects to the motor impeller, necessitating a little bit of disassembly on your part. However, you could also hire a professional pool technician to help you find your model identification number, order the correct replacement seal, and install the new components.
Need Some Maintenance Help?
Send me a message! I can answer any of your pool maintenance, equipment, or other questions.
Final Thoughts
The pool pump keeps water circulating throughout a pool’s filtration system. Motors power these helpful devices. However, these motors can break down and refuse to work, especially when their internal chamber gets waterlogged.
The pool pump shaft seal prevents pool pump motors from getting wet. If you’re replacing your pool pump motor, you’ll also need to replace your pool pump shaft seal. Otherwise, you might end up with a soggy, broken pool pump motor. Also, if you’re having other issues, I have a complete guide on what to do if your pool pump is not working and research on the top pool pumps if you need to replace the entire unit.
Questions about finding the right seal replacement? Shoot me a message; always happy to help.
