American Whirlpool Circulation Pump Failure

Circulation pump is not running; water surface is still and heater will not operate

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Burned-out circulation pump motor, Air lock preventing priming, Failed relay or output on control board, Clogged circ pump intake

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power at the GFCI breaker before working on the pump or plumbing.

The circulation pump must run for heating and filtration.

  • Listen for operation: With power on, place your hand on the circ pump. If it is silent and not vibrating, it may not be receiving power or is failed.
  • Bleed air: Turn power off, loosen the circ pump union until water flows, then retighten to remove air locks.
  • Check for blockages: Inspect the suction side plumbing and any small inline filters or strainers for debris.
  • Test voltage (if qualified): With power on and a call for heat, measure voltage at the circ pump terminals. If correct voltage is present and the pump does not run, replace the pump.

If no voltage is present at the pump when it should be running, the control board output or relay may be faulty and needs professional service.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Circulation Pump
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