How to Fix a Stuck Whirlpool Tub Pump
The Whirlpool corporation makes a sizable number of products, from dishwashers to clothes washers and dryers, to refrigerators and cooking appliances. Whirlpool also manufactures hot tubs and spas. These fixtures are designed for user comfort and relaxation. Whirlpool tubs work by pumping in heated water and streaming the water into the bath with jet sprays. The water circulates in the tub and is pulled into a filter, then re-circulated into the tub. On occasion, the lines may clog and the pump may stick.
Unclogging the Lines
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Squirt a small amount of liquid dish soap into the clogged line to lubricate it, making removing the blockage more easy.
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Press a sink plunger over the clogged line and plunge it several times to remove the obstruction from the line. If the line remains clogged, go to the next step.
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Remove the jet nozzle with pliers then insert a small pipe auger into the line. Crack the handle to push the blockage out of the line. Once clear, replace the jet nozzle.
Fixing the Tub Pump
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Turn the Whirlpool bath off and power off the pump as well. Let the pump cool to room temperature if recently used.
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Remove the Whirlpool's pump cover using a screwdriver and pliers. Locate the motor and impeller assembly inside the pump housing. The impeller assembly looks like a shaft with small propeller blades.
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Examine the impeller assembly to see if something is blocking it, making the pump stick. If the blades are damaged, remove the impeller assembly and replace it.
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Check the motor to ensure it is working using a voltage reader. Connect a voltage reader to the Whirlpool tub pump motor and take a reading. If it is bad, that is the source of the problem. Remove and replace the motor.
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Replace the pump cover after making the necessary repairs. Turn the power back on and use your Whirlpool bath as normal.
References
- "Plumbing"; Carson Dunlop; 2003
- "The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair"; Creative Publishing international; 2004
Writer Bio
Owen Richason grew up working in his family's small contracting business. He later became an outplacement consultant, then a retail business consultant. Richason is a former personal finance and business writer for "Tampa Bay Business and Financier." He now writes for various publications, websites and blogs.
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