AstralPool
®
CTX, XP, XF and E Series Pumps | Installation and Operation Manual
14
Section 6. Maintenance
6.1 Routine Maintenance
Inspect the pump filter basket for debris by looking
through the clear pump lid. Remove all debris. As debris
accumulates, it will reduce the flow of water through the
pump. For CTX, E and XP-Series pumps, keep the basket
clean to improve the performance of the pump.
1. Turn off the power to the pump. If the pump is located
below the water level, close the check valves on the
suction and discharge sides of the pump to prevent
backflow of water.
2. Turn the locking ring counter-clockwise until ‘START’
aligns with the ports. Carefully remove the lid.
3. Lift the basket out of the pump.
4. Dispose of the debris and thoroughly clean the basket,
making sure all the holes are open. Using a garden
hose, spray the basket from the outside to help clear
the holes. Remove any remaining debris by hand.
5. Replace the basket in the pump by aligning the opening
with the suction pipe. If aligned properly, the basket will
drop easily into place. Do not force
it into place.
CAUTION
A misaligned basket will cause the lid to be improperly seated,
allowing an air leak, which could result in pump damage.
6. Remove the lid seal and remove debris around the lid
seal seat, as this can allow air to leak into the system.
Clean the lid seal and place it on the lid.
7. Replace the lid with locking ring. Hand-tighten the lid to
make an air-tight seal. Do not use any tools to tighten
the lid: Hand-tighten only.
8. Verify that all valves have been returned to the proper
position for normal operation.
9. Open the pressure release valve on the filter, and make
sure it is clean and ready for operation.
10. Turn on the power to the pump. Once all the air has
been evacuated from the filter, close the pressure
release valve.
6.2 Winterizing the Pump
CAUTION
The pump must be protected when freezing temperatures are
expected. Allowing the pump to freeze will cause severe damage
and void the warranty.
CAUTION
Do not use antifreeze solutions in the pool, spa, or hot tub
systems! Antifreeze is highly toxic and may damage the circulation
system. The only exception to this is Propylene Glycol. For more
information, see your local pool/spa supply store or contact a
qualified swimming pool service company.
1. Drain all water from the pump, system equipment, and
piping.
2. Remove the two (2) drain plugs. Store the drain plugs
in a safe location and reinstall them when the cold
weather season is over.
3. Keep the motor covered and dry. Do not cover
the pump with plastic, because this will create
condensation that will damage the pump.
NOTE AstralPool recommends having a qualified service technician
or electrician properly disconnect the electrical wiring at the
switch or junction box. Once the power is removed, loosen the
two (2) unions and store the pump indoors. For safety, and to
prevent entry of contaminants, reinstall all conduit and terminal
box covers.
4. When the system is reopened for operation, have a
qualified technician or electrician make sure all piping,
valves, wiring and equipment are in accordance with
the manufacturer’s recommendations. Pay close
attention to the filter and electrical connections.
5. The pump must be primed prior to starting (see Section
5.1).
6.3 Maintenance Recommendations
1. Keep the lint basket clean – empty it regularly. Blocked
lint basket or suction pipe and/or no water flow will
cause pump failure and meltdown.
2. Apply suitable waterproof grease to the lint pot “O” ring
to ensure positive seal.
3. Ensure electrical passage for cooling airflow to prevent
fusing or shock hazards.
4. Maintain clear passage for cooling airflow to the pump
to prevent overheating of motor.
5. Maintain water in good chemical balance.
6. Do not allow quantities of sand of grit to continuously
pass through pump to prevent “sand blasting” erosions
(use filter sock in lint basket if sand, etc. is being picked
up by vacuum).
7. Do not over tighten strainer lid. Never use a tool or
handle to tighten lid, the lid is designed to prevent this
from happening.
8. Do not add pool salt, chlorine, acid or other chemicals
directly to your skimmer. This may result in damage to
your pump and could void your warranty.
6.4 Maintenance Schedule
Pumps incorporate moving parts and withstand high
velocity water and chemicals. Some parts wear out in
the normal course of use and require regular checks and
maintenance. Performing these checks and maintenance
will identify parts that have worn and require repair/
replacement before damage occurs. Regular care will help
ensure long life and trouble free performance.