Pumps Plus McGregors Electric Motors

Extension Cords And Your Electric Motor: Duty Ratings, Safety Tips & More

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 19:54:00 GMT

Do you know how to choose the right extension cord for your next DIY project?

Extension cords come in various lengths, and many different power carrying capacities.

While electrical extension cords are a part of our everyday lives, many of us don’t know how to choose the correct one for the job at hand.

And using the wrong cord can be dangerous.

To determine what type of cord you need, you should be able to answer the following questions:

1. How long do you need your extension cord to be?

2. How much power are you going to use?

Once you have answers to the two questions above, you will be able to determine how heavy-duty your extension cord needs to be.

Learn more about duty ratings for extensions in the section below.

Duty Ratings For Extension Cords

It’s important for you to know that extension cords have duty ratings depending on their length and wire diameter.

Here are a few helpful pointers about extension cord amp ratings:

- Cords with a larger wire diameter can handle more amps

- Longer cords have a lower amp rating

The more amps, the more power

- All electrical wire, including extension cords, use a number system to designate how many amps the wire can safely handle.

Read on to find common types of cords and learn how they’re rated.

Common Types Of Extension Cords

Extension cords are labeled by numbers, and each number corresponds to a certain amperage.

The most common extension cords are…

#16 for 10 amps

#14 for 15 amps

#12 for 20 amps

So, what can you use each type of extension cord for?

Keep reading to find out now.

Everyday Uses For A #16 Extension Cord

If you go to a hardware store and purchase a basic orange extension cord, it will be #16 wire and work for up to 10 amps.

A #16 cord is good for many around-the-house uses:

- Christmas lights

- Most yard tools

- Small appliances

And more.

While #16 cords are great for everyday household uses, they fall short for bigger jobs.

You will start to have problems when you are running longer distances or if you are powering something with an electric motor.

Learn about the dangers of using the wrong extension cord for electric motors in the next section.

The Dangers Of Using The Wrong Extension Cord For Your Electric Motor

When an extension cord is being used close to its rated capacity, it can start to heat up. And if you have a long cord, running at the maximum rating, it can start to overheat.

This is very dangerous as it can not only damage your equipment, but it can also start an electrical fire.

Since household circuit breakers are rated for 15 or 20 amps, the breaker will not protect the cord or the equipment since the cord overloads at 10 amps and the breaker needs 15 or 20 amps to trip.

Electric motors on extensions can be a problem because a motor requires about three times its normal running power to get started.

Even if the cord is adequate for the normal running of the motor, it might not be able to get the motor started.

Attempting this will potentially damage both the motor and the cord.

So, how can you ensure your own safety and the quality of your equipment?

Keep reading find out the right extension cord to use when working on your electric motor right now.

The Right Extension Cord For Your Electric Motor

Follow these simple guidelines so you can avoid overloaded cords and damaged equipment:

- Use a heavy-duty cord for high load applications.

- Upgrade to a heavier cord if you are getting close to the load rating of the existing cord.

- If a motor struggles to start, it is not getting enough power and needs a heavier duty cord.

Now you know how to safely use an extension cord on your electric motor!

For more DIY tips from electric motor experts, give us a call at 239-574-4499 or visit our shop at 958 Country Club Blvd in Cape Coral, Florida.

Power Inverters And Your Electric Motor: Education, Safety, And More

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 19:55:00 GMT

In this educational article, you will learn what a power inverter is, what it does, and how these inverters relate to your electric motors.

You will also gain helpful information to better understand your power inverter and practice safety while working on it from home.

What Is A Power Inverter And What Does It Do?

A power inverter is an electrical device that converts DC power (battery power) to AC power (house power).

Inverters are used in solar and wind power applications, in boats, campers, and backup power supplies for electronic equipment.

A power inverter is required anytime batteries are used to produce household power. An inverter system requires an inverter, batteries, and a way to charge the batteries.

In a solar or wind application, the batteries are charged by solar panels or wind turbines. In a marine application, they would be charged by the engine.

The capacity of the batteries determines how long an inverter can supply power.

How Are Power Inverters Rated?

Inverters are rated by how much AC power they can continuously supply.

For example, a 1000-watt inverter can supply 1000 watts of AC power for as long as the batteries hold out (a few minutes or a few hours).

The Difference Between Power Inverters And Generators

Inverters, unlike generators, are capable of withstanding short duration, high demand situations.

For instance, a 1000-watt inverter can supply 2000 watts for a couple of minutes and even 4000 watts for 10 or 15 seconds.

This makes power inverters ideal for use with electric motors and other devices that have short term high current demand.

Power Inverters And Electric Motors

Keep reading to learn about the importance of power inverters in relation to your electric motors, find helpful safety tips, and more.

Understanding Power Inverters And AC Power

An inverter battery system can consist of as many batteries as needed and you can power multiple inverters from the same batteries, but you cannot connect the output (AC power) of two inverters together.

AC power sources can never be connected to obtain more power without special synchronizing equipment. If you connect two AC sources together, they will become a short circuit and ruin your equipment and potentially cause serious injury.

The Best Type Of Power Inverter

A pure sine wave inverter is the best type of unit to purchase for the normal user.

It most closely reproduces line power and does not have any negative effects on electrical equipment.

Some inverters do not produce pure sine wave power and can cause problems with certain types of equipment.

Important Power Inverter Safety Reminder

It is very important to remember that, even though inverters are powered by batteries, the output is household power.

If you put your fingers into an inverter plug, you will receive the same electrical shock you would receive if you did the same thing with a house plug.

Learn More About Power Inverters At Pumps Plus

At Pumps Plus in Cape Coral, we are committed to educating you about DIY electric motor repair and safety. Servicing Southwest Florida for 30+ years, we are your trusted source for solutions to your electric motor problems.

Have more questions about your power inverter or electric motor?

Give us a call now at 239-574-4499 or visit our shop at 958 Country Club Blvd. in Cape Coral, Florida.

How To Tell When Your Motor Capacitor Goes Bad

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 20:20:00 GMT

If you're reading this, then you probably suspect there's something wrong with your motor capacitor.

Are you wondering how to tell if your capacitor is failing?

In this helpful article, you will find out:

- What a capacitor is

- What a capacitor does for your motor

- The two main types of motor capacitors

- How to tell if your capacitor is bad

First, let's talk about what a capacitor is and what it does for your motor.

What Is A Capacitor?

A capacitor is a device that stores electricity. It can be large or small depending on its use. Capacitors can be found in anything from an electronic circuit to a power plant.

What Does A Motor Capacitor Do?

Single-phase motors use capacitors to help get them started and for energy saving.

There are two main kinds of motor capacitors:

1. Start Capacitors

2. Run Capacitors

Now that you know the two main types of motor capacitors, let's talk about what each kind of capacitor does and how it affects your motor.

Start Capacitors

A start capacitor is used to give a motor an extra electrical push to start it turning. A start capacitor is only used in the motor circuit for a second or two when it first starts to turn.

Once the motor is up to speed, the start capacitor disconnects and is not used again until the next time the motor starts. If the start capacitor fails, then the motor will not be able to begin turning.

Run Capacitors

A run capacitor is an energy-saving device that is in the motor circuit at all times.

If a run capacitor fails, the motor can display a variety of problems including not starting, overheating, and vibrating. A bad run capacitor deprives the motor of the full voltage it needs to operate correctly.

The Difference Between Start And Run Capacitors

Both start and run capacitors are made the same way, but run capacitors are much more heavy-duty than start capacitors since a run capacitor is always used when the motor is running.

For this reason, you cannot use a start capacitor to replace a run capacitor. Motors can use one or both types of capacitors depending on what they are designed to do.

Capacitor Failure: Is Your Capacitor Bad?

When you suspect you have a bad capacitor, there are a few motor capacitor failure symptoms you should look out for.

Signs Of A Failing Capacitor

- Your motor starts slowly

- Your motor won't stop buzzing

It's Not Your Capacitor When...

If your motor is completely dead (does not move and does not make any noise at all), then the problem is more than a capacitor.

How To Test Your Capacitor

Do you want to determine whether your capacitor is working properly?

You can test your capacitor using a high-quality electrical meter.

The unit of capacitance is microfarad. Capacitors are labeled with what microfarad value (abbreviated mfd or uf) that they should be.

If your electrical meter displays a microfarad value that is too high or too low, this is a sign that your capacitor is bad.

Before testing your capacitor, be sure to short across the terminals with an insulated handle screwdriver. This will help you remove any stored power.

The capacitor value needs to be within the labeled range for it to be any good.

Keep in mind capacitors do not have any polarity so it does not make any difference which side the wires go on.

However, if you had more than two wires going to the capacitor, the wires that are paired together on one side must always be paired together.

Capacitor Safety Reminder

As with any electrical device, disconnect the power to the motor before servicing it and discharge the capacitors before handling them.

Still Experiencing Problems With Your Capacitor?

Pumps Plus of Cape Coral is the leading service provider for electrical motors in Southwest Florida.

If you're still having problems with your motor capacitor, give us a call now at 239-574-4499 or visit our shop at 958 Country Club Blvd. in Cape Coral, Florida.

Home & Garden Tips: The Top 5 Tools for DIY Pool Pump Repair

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 22:27:00 GMT

Thinking about fixing your pool pump on your own?

With the right tools and maintenance knowledge, Do It Yourself (DIY) Pool Pump Repair can be quick, easy and cost efficient.

In this helpful article, you will discover the top tools you need to fix your pool pump right now so you can get your pool running properly in no time.

Tool #1 Pipe Wrench

Need help taking your pump apart?

You can use a pipe wrench to help you assemble and disassemble pipes and pipe fittings within your pool pump. Pipe wrenches are specifically used to loosen and tighten pipes, so you can easily take your pump apart and put it back together again.

In addition to a pipe wrench, you might want to consider stocking your tool box with other types of wrenches like socket, channel, open end, and strap wrenches as well.

Tool #2 Teflon Tape

Want a quick solution to leaky pipes?

Teflon tape is a handy tool that helps seal threaded pipes so water can’t leak through. It provides extra security for your pool pump, reducing friction and making it easier to tighten your seal.

While teflon tape is a great temporary solution, you should always diagnose the root of the problem so you can stop pipe leaks for good.

Tool #3 Screwdriver

What’s one tool every DIY-er needs at home?

A screwdriver.

If you ever find yourself needing to replace your pool pump motor with a new one, a screwdriver will definitely come in handy.

Among many other uses, you can use this tool to access the inside of your motor. Just use your screwdriver to loosen the cover screws and take a look inside.

Tool #4 Pliers

Working with wires?

Pliers will be of use to you. This multipurpose tool can help you rewire your motor, unscrew small parts, and hold pipes in place.

There are lots of small parts and wires within your pool pump motor. Without pliers, you’ll have trouble navigating your repair. Pick up some pliers to make your DIY efforts worthwhile.

Tool #5 Spare & Replacement Parts

What do you absolutely need in order to fix your pool pump at home?

Extra parts. Nuts, bolts, valves, you name it — keep these parts at home so you can replace them whenever you run into a problem with your pool pump.

Luckily, Pumps Plus carries all kinds of replacement parts for your pool pump.

Get Your Pool Pump Parts At Pumps Plus

O-rings and Seals

Skimmer Baskets

Pool Pump Lids

Pool Pump Threads

Pool Pump Impellers

Pool Pump Motors

And much more!

Stock up on your parts now so you’re not scrambling to fix your pool pump later.

Need a Part for Your DIY Pool Pump Repair?

Pumps Plus carries all of the best parts for your pool pump. With new and used parts to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find what you need at an affordable price.

Call us now at 239-574-4499 or visit us in the shop at 958 Country Club Blvd in Cape Coral, Florida.

5 Simple Steps to Keep Your Florida Pool Clean and Healthy During Summer

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 16:16:00 GMT

With Florida Summer upon us, it’s time to start taking care of your pool now more than ever.

The harsh Florida environment can impact the health and longevity of your pool, so it’s important to protect your pool now so you don’t run into problems later on.

Factors like intense heat and sub-tropical storms can lead to problems that may go undetected until months down the road.

Most people don’t even realize there's a problem until it’s too late.

Don’t let this be you. Keep reading to discover 5 simple steps to keep your pool clean and healthy this summer.

#1. Clear Debris From Your Pool

Florida summer storms can blow debris straight into your pool: palm fronds, animals and more. This creates a less than desirable swimming situation. Plus, it exposes your water to allergens, dirt, and disease.

Use a net to remove bugs, leaves and other debris from your pool so you can fully enjoy it without swimming into trouble.

#2. Test Your Pool pH Levels

One sure-fire way to keep your pool water clear and swim-worthy is to add a healthy amount of chlorine every so often. But too much chlorine can cause problems. Refer to your pool professional for help with this.

You can bring a sample of water to your trusted pool technician, or you can have them visit your home. After analyzing your chlorine and mineral levels, your pool tech will determine how to find the right balance for your pool.

If you decide to DIY, remember that the recommended Chlorine Levels are 3-5ppm. If you can smell chlorine, your levels are probably too high.

#3. Make Sure Your Pool Filter Is Clean

Don’t forget to check your pool filter for built up debris. While it’s not super common, your filter can get clogged, which will prevent water from circulating throughout your pool.

As a rule of thumb, you should replace your pool filter every 1 to 2 years, or sooner if your pool is regularly in contact with chemicals like sunscreen. If you have any questions, contact your trusted pool professional to help you.

#4. Remove the Skimmer Plug

If you’re a seasonal Florida resident and you turned your pool off before heading north, you’ll want to make sure you remove your skimmer plug before turning it back on. A skimmer plug is used to protect your pool equipment from the elements while you’re away.

If you don’t remove this plug before starting your pool, water won’t move through your pool filter, causing the whole system to malfunction.

If you’re not sure how to do this, call us now at 239-574-4499, and we’ll guide you through it.

#5. Check Your Water Levels

With the extreme summer heat, your pool water is subject to evaporation. In fact, a Florida swimming pool loses an average of a quarter-inch of water on a daily basis.

If your pool loses too much water, your pump won’t get the water it needs to function properly. This can cause your pool pump to stop working, or worse, break down for good.

At Pumps Plus, this is one of the most common problems we see. And most of the time, people don’t realize there’s a problem until it’s already too late.

Don’t let your pump run dry. Prevent this from happening to you by topping off your water with a garden hose every so often.

Protect Your Pool With Pumps Plus

Do you want to make sure your pool stays in great shape this summer?

Trust your pool with Pumps Plus, the leading service provider for pool pumps and electric motors in Southwest Florida.

At Pumps Plus, we always put our customers first, which is why we’ve been in business for 30+ years. Our customers love us because we’re honest, reliable, knowledgeable, and hard-working.

If you have questions about your pool or need help troubleshooting a problem, stop by our shop or call us now at 239-574-4499 .

Pumps Plus is conveniently located 958 Country Club Blvd. in Cape Coral, Florida.

Pumps Plus Summer Giveaway: You Can Win A VIP Suite To Fort Myers Miracle Baseball!

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 16:19:00 GMT

TREAT YOUR FRIENDS, FAMILY, OR COLLEAGUES TO SOME SUMMER FUN!

Pumps Plus of Cape Coral is giving away a 14-person box suite for you to enjoy a Fort Myers Miracle baseball game with friends, family or co-workers.

Your FREE SUITE ($350 value) includes popcorn, lemonade, and ice water at no cost to you. Additional refreshments are available at an additional cost.

This is your opportunity to show your friends, family or colleagues a great time this summer. And it's free for you!

Enter to win a FREE VIP SUITE to Fort Myers Miracle Baseball right now!

Keep reading to learn how YOU CAN WIN - it's so easy!

CONTEST DETAILS

ENTER TO WIN when you review us on Facebook , Google , or Yelp
SCORE EXTRA ENTRIES for each additional review you write
INSTANTLY WIN 2 free box tickets to a Fort Myers Miracle baseball game when you purchase any new pump or motor over $100
THE GRAND PRIZE WINNER of the 14-person box suite ($350 value) will be selected at random and announced by Friday July 12th, 2019.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY - call us now at 239-574-4499 or visit us at the shop for more details.

Pumps Plus is conveniently located at 958 Country Club Blvd in between Viscaya Pkwy and Nicholas Pkwy in Cape Coral, Florida.

DIY Pool Pump Repair: How to Fix a Pool Pump Leak for $10 or Less

Thu, 23 May 2019 19:03:00 GMT

Did you know you can fix a lot of your pool pump problems on your own, and it will only cost you a fraction of what it would cost to replace your entire pump?

Replacing your pool pump can cost you hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. But when you do it yourself, it will only cost you as little as $10.

If you’ve noticed a leak in your pool pump or if your pump is acting up, don’t panic. You might be able to fix it quickly and easily all by yourself.

Wouldn't it be nice to know a few DIY repair secrets so you can get your pool working right away?

Keep reading to find out how you can fix your pool pump right now.

How to Fix a Pool Pump Leak for Only $10

Have you noticed water leaking from your pool pump?

Don’t worry. This is one of the most common problems you can encounter as a swimming pool owner.

The good news is you can usually fix it on your own, and it might only cost you a few bucks. Often times, all you need to do is replace a worn part.

To start, check your o-rings for wear.

In case you’re not familiar, o-rings are the small rubber pieces that seal your pump. These small yet important pool pump parts keep water from entering where it should not be.

If your o-rings are worn, you are more likely to experience a pump leak, and this could cause your whole system to malfunction.

Luckily, you can buy new o-rings for just $10 or less. Once you have your new o-rings, simply replace the old parts with the new ones.

After that, your pump should start working properly.

Still Experiencing Pool Pump Problems?

Pumps Plus is the leading pool pump service provider in Southwest Florida.

We have been fixing electric motors in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Pine Island and the surrounding area for 30+ years.

At this pool pump repair company, it's our mission to help you keep your equipment working well without breaking the bank. We’ll never recommend you replace your pump unless you absolutely need to.

Pool Pump & Electric Motor Repair in Southwest Florida

Look to us for help with your…

Boat lifts
Well pumps
Pool pumps
Marine motors
Water softeners
Air conditioning motors

And much, much more.

We have the parts and expertise you need to get your motors up and running, without spending a ton of money.

Trust your pump with us.

To learn more, call us now at 239-574-4499 or browse our site at pumpspluscapecoral.com .