Sta-Rite pool pump trips the breaker immediately or within a few seconds of starting.

Safety: Repeated breaker tripping indicates a potentially dangerous fault. Do not repeatedly reset without inspection.

• Visual inspection: Turn off power and open the motor wiring compartment. Look for burned insulation, melted wire nuts, or signs of water entry.
• Insulation test: Use a megohmmeter (if available) to test insulation resistance between motor leads and ground. Low resistance indicates a ground fault and the motor should be replaced.
• Check conduit and cable: Inspect the wiring from the panel to the pump for cuts, crushed sections, or water-filled conduit. Repair or replace as needed.
• Verify breaker size: Confirm the breaker amperage matches Sta-Rite's nameplate requirements. An undersized breaker may nuisance-trip under normal load.
• Replace motor if shorted: If tests confirm a shorted motor, replace the Sta-Rite motor assembly. Do not attempt to operate a motor with compromised insulation.