Pump Not Starting
Pentair Pool Pump
Severity:What Does This Error Mean?
A Pentair IntelliFlo pump that does not start usually has a tripped breaker, a drive fault displayed on the pump keypad, or an external automation system sending a stop signal. Check the breaker, look at the IntelliFlo display for an error code, and confirm the automation system is sending a run command.
Affected Models
- Pentair IntelliFlo VSF
- Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF
- Pentair IntelliFlo Variable Speed
- Pentair SuperFlo VS
Common Causes
- Circuit breaker tripped
- IntelliFlo drive fault — check display for error code
- External automation system (EasyTouch, IntelliCenter) sending stop command
- Priming failure protection activated
- Pump time schedule set to off
- Drive board fault
How to Fix It
-
Check the circuit breaker and reset if tripped.
IntelliFlo pumps draw significant power — a tripped breaker leaves the display completely dark. If the breaker trips again immediately after resetting, there is a motor or wiring fault.
-
Read the error code on the IntelliFlo keypad display.
Press the arrow keys on the pump to wake the display and check for a fault code. The display shows error codes that identify the specific problem (drive overcurrent, dry run, overtemperature).
-
Check the automation system for a stop or override command.
If an EasyTouch, IntelliCenter, or third-party automation system controls the pump, it may be sending a stop signal. Check the automation panel for the pump's status and override it to manual run for testing.
-
Confirm the pump's time schedule allows running now.
Press the Menu button on the pump keypad and navigate to Time → Program. Confirm that the current time falls within a run schedule.
-
Clear a priming failure by restarting the pump manually.
If the pump shut off due to priming failure protection, restore water flow (open valves, check pool water level) then restart the pump at a low speed to re-prime.
When to Call a Professional
If the IntelliFlo displays a drive fault code that persists after restarting, the variable-frequency drive may need professional repair or replacement. Contact Pentair support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Pentair IntelliFlo display show nothing?
A dark display usually means the pump has no power — check the circuit breaker and the wiring connections at the pump. If the breaker is on and wiring is correct but the display is still blank, the control board may have failed.
How do I override a Pentair IntelliFlo automation stop?
Press the System button on the pump keypad to access manual override mode. In manual mode the pump will run regardless of what the automation system sends. Remember to return to automation mode after testing.