How to Repair a Pool Timer

a backyard pool with hose laying on the patio
What You'll Need
Screwdriver
Flashlight
Replacement timer
What You'll Need
Screwdriver
Flashlight
Replacement timer

When your pool timer stops working, it doesn't necessarily mean that you will have to rush out and buy a new one. There are several reasons why your pool timer may be malfunctioning. Timer pins can be missing or the timer could be defective. Your timer could be set incorrectly or the timer may not be getting power. In order to find the issue of your pool timer, troubleshooting must be done to determine the problem. With the proper troubleshooting knowledge and instruction, your pool timer can be functioning normally again.

Step 1 - Check that Timer is Functional

Locate the two timer pins on your timer. Take a good look at the position of the pins and write down the locations. Leave the paper inside your timer box so that you do not mistakenly misplace it. Your timer is on a 24-hour cycle. Because of this, you will want to return to the timer in 24 hours to see if the location of the pins are different. If the pins are in a different location, power is being supplied to your timer and it is functional.

If the pins have not moved, you are not receiving power to the timer. Check the manual override switch beneath the timer dial and ensure that it is on. If it is on, check the circuit breaker to ensure that it is in the "On" position. If it is on, your timer will need to be replaced.

Step 2 - Replace Timer

If the instructions in Step 1 don't yield positive results, it is necessary to replace your timer. It is recommended that you consult a professional electrician to install the timer. This ensures that the steps to installing the timer are done professionally and won't compromise your safety. If Step 1 does yield positive results, move on to Step 3.

Step 3 - Adjust Timer Wheel

cleaning brushes on the edge of a pool

Sometimes the cause of a malfunctioning pool timer is the adjustment of the timer wheel. The time bar is located in the center of the timer wheel. If you want to set the time, you should take two fingers and pull the wheel gently toward you away the timer box. You will be able to rotate the wheel when it is about 1/8 inch out. You want to turn the wheel until the timer reflects the correct time with the timer marker at the front of the wheel.

Step 4 - Adjust Timer On and Off Pins

If everything else is in order with your timer to this point, you will want to adjust the timer "On" and "Off" pins to set the time to turn your filtering system on and off. Use your screwdriver to loosen the screw that holds the pin in place. Adjust only one pin at a time. Be sure not to loosen the screw too much so as not to cause the screw to fall from the wheel and become lost.