Learn How to Install a Doheny Pool Pump in 6 Simple Steps

If you’re tired of paying high energy bills and want to keep your pool in top condition, installing a new pool pump is the perfect solution. Installing a pool pump may seem intimidating, but with a little knowledge and the right tools, it can be an easy DIY project that can be done in just a few hours.

At Doheny’s, we offer a wide range of high-quality pool pumps that are easy to install and built to last. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to install a Doheny pool pump in just 6 simple steps.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting out, our step-by-step guide will make the process of installing a pool pump simple and stress-free. So, let’s get started!

Keep reading to learn more about each step and get started on your own pool pump installation today!

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before installing your new Doheny pool pump, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You don’t want to get halfway through the installation process and realize you’re missing a crucial item. Here are some tools and materials you’ll need for the job:

• Socket Set: A socket set is essential for removing and installing bolts and nuts. Make sure you have the right sizes for your pump.
• Plumbers Tape: Plumbers tape will help ensure a tight and leak-free seal on threaded connections.
• Wire Cutters: Wire cutters will be needed to cut and strip wires for the electrical connections.
• Phillips Screwdriver: A Phillips screwdriver will be needed to remove and install screws on the electrical panel.

Make sure you also have any additional items that may be required for your specific installation, such as PVC glue or a new pool pump base. Once you have all the necessary tools and materials, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Note: Before beginning any pool pump installation or repair, make sure to turn off power to the pump and electrical panel to avoid any potential hazards.

Next up is Step 2: Turn Off Power to the Pool Pump, where we’ll go over the necessary steps to turn off power and make sure it stays off while you work on the pump.

Don’t rush through the installation process. Take your time, follow each step carefully, and soon you’ll have a brand new Doheny pool pump ready to keep your pool crystal clear!

Make Sure You Have Everything You Need Before You Start

1. Pump specifications: Make sure you have the correct pump specifications for your pool size and type.
2. Tools: You will need a screwdriver, pliers, PVC cutter, Teflon tape, and a wrench to complete the installation.
3. Gloves and safety goggles: It is important to protect your hands and eyes while working with electrical equipment and plumbing.
4. Clean work area: Before starting, ensure that the work area is clean and free of any debris or hazards that could cause accidents.
5. Electrical safety: Make sure to turn off power to the pool pump before starting any work to prevent electrical shock or injury.

By having all the necessary tools and equipment, you can complete the installation process smoothly and efficiently, ensuring your pool is ready for the summer months.

Step 2: Turn Off Power to the Pool Pump

Before you start working on your pool pump, you need to turn off the power. This is important for your safety, and to prevent any electrical accidents. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the pool pump and turn it off.

Once you have turned off the power, you can move on to the next step. If you’re not sure which circuit breaker controls the pool pump, you can turn off the main power to the house to be safe.

It’s also a good idea to test the circuit with a voltage tester to ensure there is no electricity flowing to the pump. If you don’t have a voltage tester, you can purchase one at your local hardware store.

Remember to never touch any wires or electrical components without first turning off the power. Safety should always be your top priority when working with electrical appliances.

Once you have turned off the power and tested the circuit, you can move on to the next step of removing the old pump.

Switch off the Circuit Breaker

• Locate the circuit breaker: It is usually found near the pump motor. If you cannot locate it, consult your owner’s manual.

• Turn off the circuit breaker: Flip the switch to the off position to cut off power to the pool pump. Make sure the switch stays in the off position to avoid accidental electrocution.

• Check for power: Use a non-contact voltage tester to verify that there is no electrical current running through the wires before proceeding.

Turning off power to the pool pump is crucial before starting the installation process. Failure to do so can result in electrical shock or even death. It is essential to follow these steps carefully to ensure your safety and prevent damage to your pool pump. Once the power is off, you can proceed to the next step with confidence.

Disconnect the Electrical Wiring

Step 1: First, locate the electrical conduit that connects the pool pump to the circuit breaker.

Step 2: Turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the pool pump.

Step 3: Remove the cover from the electrical conduit and disconnect the wires from the pool pump.

Step 4: Using a screwdriver, loosen the screws that hold the wires in place and carefully remove them.

Step 5: Once the wires are disconnected, use electrical tape to cover the ends and keep them from touching each other or any metal surfaces.

Remove the Conduit

Step 1: Locate the conduit where the wires are connected to the pump.

Step 2: Remove the screws that hold the conduit in place.

Step 3: Pull the conduit off the pump.

Step 4: Cover the exposed wires with wire nuts to prevent electrical shocks.

Step 5: Store the conduit and screws in a safe place to use later when reconnecting the electrical wiring.

Step 3: Remove the Old Pump

Turn off the water valves: Before you can remove the old pump, you need to turn off the water valves. This will prevent water from flowing into the pump and causing a mess when you remove it.

Disconnect the pipes: Once the water valves are off, you can disconnect the pipes from the old pump. Make sure you have a bucket or towel handy to catch any remaining water in the pipes.

Remove the mounting bolts: With the pipes disconnected, you can now remove the mounting bolts that hold the old pump in place. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts and carefully lift the old pump out of the way.

Clean the mounting base: Before you install the new pump, make sure you clean the mounting base thoroughly. Remove any debris, dirt, or old gasket material from the base to ensure a proper seal for the new pump.

With the old pump removed and the mounting base cleaned, you’re now ready to install your new Doheny pool pump. Follow the next steps to complete the installation process.

Drain the Pump

Before you can remove the old pump, you’ll need to drain any water left in the system. Start by turning off the valves on the inlet and outlet pipes of the pump. Next, remove the drain plug from the bottom of the pump to let the water drain out. You may need to tilt the pump or use a wet-dry vacuum to get all the water out.

Be sure to turn off the power to the pump before attempting to drain it. If the pump is still on and there is water in the system, it can be dangerous to handle. Also, make sure to put on gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from any residual water or debris that may come out.

Once you’ve drained the water, remove any remaining fittings, hoses, or pipes that connect the pump to the rest of the system. Keep track of which pieces go where so you can easily reassemble the new pump.

Now that the old pump is disconnected and drained, you’re ready to move on to installing the new pump.

Step 4: Install the New Doheny Pool Pump

Now that the old pump has been removed, it’s time to install the new Doheny pool pump. Follow these steps to ensure a proper installation.

Step 1: Position the new pump. Make sure it’s level and properly aligned with the existing plumbing.

Step 2: Connect the electrical wiring. Use wire connectors to connect the wires to the new pump. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct wiring diagram.

Step 3: Reattach the conduit. Slide the conduit over the electrical wiring and secure it in place using the screws or clips.

Step 4: Attach the plumbing. Reconnect the plumbing to the new pump, using PVC primer and cement to create a watertight seal.

Attach the Mounting Plate

Locate the mounting plate and use screws to attach it to the surface where you want to install the pump. Make sure it is level and secure.

Apply a thin layer of silicone to the bottom of the pump to create a seal with the mounting plate.

Use the bolts and washers provided with the pump to attach the pump to the mounting plate. Tighten them securely, but be careful not to over-tighten them.

Make sure the pump is level and the seal is tight. If it is not level, adjust it by loosening the bolts and repositioning the pump until it is level.

Step 5: Reconnect the Plumbing and Electrical Connections

Reattach the plumbing connections: Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the fittings and reconnect the pipes. Make sure the connections are tight and secure.

Reconnect the electrical wiring: Connect the wires to the corresponding terminals on the new pump. Make sure the connections are tight and secure.

Reinstall the conduit: Slide the conduit back into place and reattach it to the pump with the conduit connector.

Fill the pump with water: Open the valves on the suction and discharge lines to fill the pump with water.

Turn on the power: Turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power to the pool pump.

Reconnect the Plumbing

Step 1: Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the PVC pipes to create a tight seal when reassembling the plumbing.

Step 2: Reattach the PVC pipes and fittings to the new pump, ensuring that all connections are tight and secure.

Step 3: Replace any old or damaged O-rings, gaskets, or seals with new ones to prevent leaks.

Step 4: Turn on the pool pump and inspect the plumbing connections for any signs of leaks. If there are leaks, turn off the pump and tighten the connections as needed.

Step 5: Once the plumbing connections are leak-free, turn off the pool pump again and move on to reconnecting the electrical connections.

Step 6: Test the New Pool Pump

After installing the new Doheny pool pump, it’s time to test it out to ensure everything is working correctly. Before starting the pump, make sure the pool is filled with enough water to cover the skimmer.

Turn the power back on and wait for the pump to prime, which may take a few minutes. Check the filter pressure gauge to make sure it’s within the recommended range. If the pressure is too high or low, adjust the flow rate until it’s within the proper range.

Observe the water flow to ensure it’s moving through the pump and filter system correctly. Check for any leaks around the connections and make any necessary adjustments.

If everything looks good, turn off the pump and clean the pump strainer basket. Once the basket is clean, restart the pump and check the pressure gauge and water flow again.

Repeat this process a few times to ensure everything is functioning properly. If you notice any issues or concerns, consult the Doheny pool pump manual or contact a professional for assistance.

Prime the Pump

Before turning on the new pump, it’s essential to prime it. This process helps remove air from the system and ensure that water is flowing correctly. Locate the priming port on the pump and remove the cap.

Fill the pump with water until it reaches the brim, then replace the cap. Turn the pump on and watch the pressure gauge to ensure that the water is flowing correctly. You may hear air escaping from the system as it primes, but this is normal.

Once the water is flowing, check for leaks around the plumbing connections. If everything looks good, you’re ready to start using your new pump!

Note that it’s important to prime the pump each time you turn it on to ensure optimal performance and avoid damage to the motor.

Frequently Asked Questions