Pump Not Starting
Zodiac Pool System
Severity:What Does This Error Mean?
A Zodiac Jandy pool pump that will not start is most often caused by a tripped circuit breaker, an automation timer that has the pump scheduled off, or a failed start capacitor. Check the breaker panel first, then check the run schedule in the iAquaLink app or Jandy automation controller.
Affected Models
- Jandy VS FloPro Variable Speed Pump
- Jandy ePump Variable Speed Pump
- Jandy Pro Series Pump
- Zodiac iAquaLink Automation
Common Causes
- Circuit breaker for the pump has tripped
- Automation timer has the pump scheduled off during this time period
- Start capacitor has failed — motor hums but will not turn
- Thermal overload protector tripped due to overheating
- Impeller is jammed with debris
How to Fix It
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Check the circuit breaker panel. Find the breaker labelled Pool Pump or similar. If it is in the tripped (middle) position, reset it by flipping it fully off then back on.
A repeatedly tripping breaker means the pump motor is drawing too much current — this indicates a motor or wiring fault that needs professional attention.
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Check the run schedule in the Jandy AquaLink RS controller or iAquaLink app. Confirm the pump is scheduled to run during the current time period.
After a power outage, the automation controller clock may have reset to 12:00 AM, shifting the schedule. Verify the current time in the controller settings.
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Listen at the pump when you attempt to start it. If you hear a hum but the motor does not turn, the start capacitor has likely failed. The capacitor stores the energy needed for starting — a failed capacitor must be replaced by a qualified electrician or pool technician.
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If the motor ran recently and is hot, the thermal overload protector may have tripped. Allow the motor to cool for 30–60 minutes in a shaded area, then try again.
Ensure the pump motor has adequate ventilation. Do not run the motor in a closed pump box without airflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Jandy pump hums for 2 seconds then shuts off — what does that mean?
A hum followed by immediate shutdown almost always indicates a failed start capacitor or a jammed impeller. To check for a jammed impeller, turn off power at the breaker, remove the drain plug at the front of the pump housing, and manually try to rotate the impeller with a screwdriver — it should spin freely. If it does not spin, clear the blockage before restarting.