AO Smith Thermal Overload Tripping

AO Smith pool pump motor overheats and shuts off after running for a short time, then restarts after cooling.

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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

Blocked ventilation around motor, High ambient temperature, Overloaded pump (wrong impeller or high head), Incorrect voltage or wiring configuration

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety First: Disconnect power before inspecting or moving the pump.

  • Improve ventilation: Ensure the motor cooling vents are clear and that the pump is not enclosed in a tight box. Provide airflow and shade if in direct sun.
  • Verify wiring: Check that the AO Smith motor is wired for the correct voltage (115V vs 230V) per the nameplate and wiring diagram. Miswiring can cause overheating.
  • Check pump load: Confirm that the impeller size matches the motor horsepower and that valves are not excessively throttled, which can increase load.
  • Measure current draw: A technician can use a clamp meter to compare running amps to the motor’s rated amps. If amps are high, reduce load or replace with a properly sized motor.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Motor Assembly
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