Intermatic Pool Timer Wiring

[PoolDoc]

1. Don't run the pump with a wonky timer!

2a. Either fix the timer, and get enough tripper to run 3x per day for 30 - 45 minutes each time OR
2b. Get a new pump

3. You might want to consider keeping the filter. One of the nice things about cartridge filters is, you can't get one that's too big. With this filter, you'll likely only need to clean it 1x each year -- preferably before closing.

[sjeffers01]

I will do as you suggested and add two sets of tripper pins to run the pump three times a day. You Tube has a video on how to do just that. Running the pump three times should keep my electric bill down. I will keep the filter and pump. I may buy a bigger pool that is the appropriate size for the pump and filter next year.

I have some other questions about the timer that I'd like ask out of curiosity if you don't mind. Are there other timers that will run my pump other than the Intermatic T104? Does the timer have to specify for use on pool pumps or it has the same specifications as a pool timer? Can you bypass a timer and plug the pump directly to a GFCI outlet. It will be a few days before I can fix the timer. In the meantime, I will focus on the water quality.
Thank you for your time.

[PoolDoc]

Primarily, any pool timer has to be motor or inductive load rating; this will show up as a amps PLUS a horsepower (HP) rating.

[sjeffers01]

I decided to check the timer myself and removed the center screw that holds the time pointer and the time wheel. There was this taupe color light in texture grease and dirt on the gears and all around the on off switch and some on the tripper pins I put on the other day. I cleaned a lot of it but couldn't reach some areas. I put it back together and set the time. The pump stayed on for about an hour then it shut off and came back on after seven minutes. Then it went back to shutting off and on again but at seven to ten minute intervals. I think if I dismantle it and clean it thoroughly it might work like it should. If the grease is supposed to be on the gears then I probably need to replace the timer.

[PoolDoc]

Replace it!!

You're going to tear up a $400 pump, messing around with a $50 timer body.

[sjeffers01]

Will do. I will check out the one you suggested earlier. Thanks again.

[sjeffers01]

I bought the Intermatic T104 208-277 Volt Mechanical Switch from Amazon. It should arrive in two days. I also ordered 2 sets of on and off tripper pins. I forgot to mention that I can manually turn on and turn off the pump and the switch isn't loose, too easy or hard to push. I can hear the timer switch on and switch off by it self. I have to unplug it to stop the timer from turning on and off by itself at random. I have been keeping the pool clean from debris, vacuumed, and brush all sides of the pool. In the meantime, I will be working on getting the proper levels of chlorine and PH and whatever else I need to do to prevent problems. I will update this thread after I get the timer installed this Saturday.