Pump does not start, digital controller shows E01 immediately after power-on

Safety first: Disconnect power at the breaker before touching the pump or control box. Lock out the breaker if possible.

Step-by-step:

• 1. Check for mechanical blockage: Remove the pump lid on the Espa prefilter housing, take out the basket, and clear leaves, stones, or debris. Reach in and try to rotate the impeller shaft with a screwdriver or your fingers (from the prefilter side). It should turn smoothly with moderate resistance.
• 2. Inspect the prefilter basket: Clean the Espa basket thoroughly and ensure it is not cracked or deformed and that it seats correctly in the housing.
• 3. Check for seized bearings: With power off, spin the motor fan at the rear of the motor (if accessible). If it is stiff, noisy, or does not spin freely, the motor bearings are likely seized and the motor assembly should be replaced.
• 4. Reset the overload: Some Espa pumps and control boxes have a manual thermal/overload reset button on the motor or in the control module. Allow the motor to cool for 30–60 minutes, then press the reset if present.
• 5. Electrical inspection: If the impeller spins freely but E01 persists, check the supply voltage at the Espa control box input with a multimeter (only if you are qualified). Incorrect voltage or a shorted motor winding can trigger overcurrent. In that case, the motor should be tested and replaced by a qualified technician.

Do not repeatedly reset and restart if the pump trips immediately; this can damage the motor and control electronics.