Pump Overheats

[KevinH]

Just got my Caldera spa a week ago.

The pumps have always smelled a bit hot, but tonight one of the pumps quit.

I had been running the pump for 30-45 min.

The pump tripped on thermal overload. After about 30 minutes I was able to restart the pump.

Has anyone else had this problem??

Thanks

[Brewman]

Sounds like a service call is in order.  New spa = warranty = use it.
Brewman

[Chas]

Your spa has the same pumps as a HotSpring, and they are very reliable. From the sound of it, you simply got a bad one. It should be replaced under warranty with no problem.

No, this is not a common thing.

[newtubguy]

I have Caldera Elation and mine has done the same thing after 45-60 min

[stuart]

Your spa has the same pumps as a HotSpring, and they are very reliable. From the sound of it, you simply got a bad one. It should be replaced under warranty with no problem.

No, this is not a common thing.

Chas,
These aren't the VICO pumps are they?

[Spatech_tuo]

I have Caldera Elation and mine has done the same thing after 45-60 min

Typically there is programming involved to automatically turn the pump off after a predetermined amount of time. This is an added feature that is there so you don't leave the pump on when adding chems and then go to sleep or go off to work for the day and the pump is left running. Check your owner's manual or ask your dealer to see if this is the case for you.

[KevinH]

I at first thought it was the automatic turn off feature.
But I couldn't turn it back on. Also it smelled very hot!

After about 30min I was able to restart the pump.

I called the dealer about it a couple days ago, but can't get the service tech to return my phone call.

[Brewman]

If it was me, and my calls were being ignored, I'd visit the dealer in person.  Be persistent.  
Or at least contact the factory and let them know you are having trouble.  


Brewman

[PPOL]

Make sure the intake and exhaust from the spas "Q Chamber" are clear.  Located at the top of the black spa skirt.

Typically the pumps turn off by themselves after 2 hrs use. 30-45 mins may be a problem.  

I agree, visit the dealer to diagnose the problem.


Good Luck,

Neil O'Donovan
Phoenix Park Outdoor Living
Wilmington, NC

[Chas]

Chas,
These aren't the VICO pumps are they?

I don't think so - but I'm not sure. If I get some time I'll call the factory and ask.

[stuart]

Here is why I asked what the brand was. Several manufactures have had pump overheat problems this year, more in higher elevations. They found one problem already; a motor that was manufactured by GE (not labeled that way because of cal spa) changed how they built the armatures and windings. They not only added less copper to the windings but also used a cheaper, overseas copper. I addition to this Balboa and Gecko both had to make a change on thier boards to make the pumps on a 2 pumps system kick on a few seconds apart so as not to spike the voltage in the windings and cause the pump to superheat. This has effected many major manufactures.