How To Find The Correct Capacitor For Your Pool Pump Motor

Things You’ll Need

• Run Capacitors
• Start Capacitors

Step 1

The first steps will involve gaining access to the capacitor in order to determine which one you need. Skip to Step 6 if you can already see the specifications on the capacitor.

Step 2

TURN POWER OFF - Make sure the power to the motor is off. We recommend turning it off at the breaker.

Step 3

LOCATE CAPACITOR - The run capacitor will normally be located on the top of the motor and a start capacitor would be located at the back of the motor (inside cover).

Note: Not all pool and spa motors have capacitors.

Step 4

REMOVE CAPACITOR COVERS - If there is a capacitor cover on top, remove the screws that secure the cover and remove the cover. If the capacitor is located at the back, loosen the screw(s) that secure the cover and remove it.

Step 5

DISCHARGE CAPACITOR - Capacitors store power even when the pump has been turned off. To avoid a possible shock, you want to short out the capacitor by laying an insulated screwdriver across its leads. On rare occasions, these capacitors have been known to explode so it's a good practice to wear eye protection and to cover the capacitor with a cloth before shorting the leads.

Step 6

IDENTIFY SPECIFICATIONS - Look at the capacitor and identify the MFD or UF rating as well as a voltage rating.

Step 7

AVAILABLE CAPACITORS - View our capacitor charts and match up the specifications. 

 Click Here to View Our Run Capacitors

Click Here to View Our Start Capacitors

Note - The replacement capacitor must have the same MFD/UF rating. If you can't find one with the same voltage, you can go with a voltage that is higher than your current capacitor. For example, if you have a 35MFD 370v capacitor, it can be replaced with a 35MFD 440v option.

If you are unable to find your capacitor on either page, submit a ticket on our Support Request Page. Include the specifications of your capacitor in the message.

Step 8

If you are unable to find your capacitor on either page, submit a ticket on our Support Request Page. Include the specifications of your capacitor in the message.

Include a picture of the motor label if you are unable to read the specifications on the capacitor.