To manually turn on a pool pump that is controlled by a timer, you typically locate the manual override control on the timer unit itself and activate it.
Pool pump timers are designed to automate the pump's operation, turning it on and off at set times. However, there are often situations where you need to run the pump outside of its scheduled cycles, such as for extended cleaning or chemical circulation. Most timer units include a built-in manual override specifically for this purpose.
Locating the Manual Override
The timer unit is usually housed in a weather-resistant box mounted near your pool pump equipment pad. Open the cover of the timer box to access the controls. Inside, alongside the timer dial or digital display, you will find components for setting the schedule. Look for a dedicated switch, lever, or arm designed for manual operation.
Operating the Manual Switch
According to the provided reference, to turn your pump on or off manually when using a timer, "there's a little arm down here and you just flip that arm." This indicates that many mechanical timers utilize a physical lever or "arm" that you can flip to change the pump's status regardless of the current timer setting.
Here are the general steps:
- Open the Timer Box: Ensure power is connected to the timer (though you are not changing the wiring).
- Find the Manual Control: Look for a distinct switch, button, or a "little arm" usually located near the timer mechanism.
- Activate the Override:
- If it's a lever or arm (as described in the reference), flip it to the 'ON' or manual position.
- If it's a button, you might press it to cycle through modes (Auto, Manual On, Manual Off).
- If it's a switch, flip it to the manual 'ON' position.
Activating the manual override will start the pump. This action bypasses the timer's current schedule until you either manually switch it back or, in some cases, until the next scheduled 'off' cycle occurs (depending on the specific timer model).
Restoring Automatic Operation
To return control back to the timer, you will typically need to manually flip the arm or switch back to the 'AUTO' or timed position. Consult your specific timer model's manual for details on how its manual override functions and how to revert to the automatic schedule.
Using the manual override is a quick way to run your pool pump as needed without having to reprogram your entire timer schedule.
