Thomas Benedetto

I purchased a VSP from Inyo about 5 1/2 years ago. The model is Century ECM16SQU. Installed it myself. It works great but for the last year or so the housing has rusted. Not it is rusted thru and I assume I’ll need to replace. Is this normal? If not what can cause this? I originally replaced my single speed pump with this unit and I used the same ground and wiring included the shielded cable.

Hi Thomas, the rusting of the motor can accelerate if it gets hit by rainwater from a roof overhang or if the finish on the motor gets hit by lawnmower debris.  We have a protective pool motor cover for “regular” motors but nothing for the variable-speed motors.  I recommend putting something over them to help protect the controls as well as the motor itself.  Be sure to not block it too much, since it is fan-cooled.  I got a cheap plastic tub from my local home center and cut it to help it fit over everything and maintain the airflow.  It was cheap and works well!