GFCI outlet or breaker trips immediately when the Hayward PowerFlo pump is turned on; some smart GFCI devices may show GF or a ground fault indicator.

Safety first: Do not repeatedly reset a tripping GFCI. Turn off the breaker and unplug the pump. Water and electricity are extremely dangerous.

• Inspect cord and plug: Look for cuts, abrasions, or crushed sections on the PowerFlo cord. If any copper is exposed or insulation is damaged, replace the cord or have the pump rewired.
• Check for moisture: Remove the rear wiring cover on the PowerFlo motor. If you see moisture, corrosion, or rust, dry the area thoroughly and identify the source of water (leaking conduit, rain, splash). Severe corrosion usually means the motor should be replaced.
• Megger test (advanced): A technician can perform an insulation resistance test between motor windings and ground. Low resistance indicates a ground fault inside the motor.
• Test on a known-good GFCI: If safe, plug the pump into another properly wired GFCI circuit to rule out a defective breaker/outlet.

If the GFCI continues to trip after cord inspection and drying, the safest solution is to replace the PowerFlo motor assembly.