Pentair IntelliFlo Over Current Alarm

The over current alarm indicates the IntelliFlo drive is overloaded or the motor has an electrical problem. The drive will automatically restart 20 seconds after the over current condition clears.

This alarm protects the drive and motor from damage due to excessive electrical current.

Pentair IntelliFlo Over Current Alarm

Common Causes

Mechanical Overload

  • Clogged impeller: Debris restricting rotation
  • Stuck impeller: Scale buildup or debris jamming impeller
  • Worn bearings: Creating excessive friction
  • Seized pump: Motor shaft not turning freely

Electrical Problems

  • Low voltage: Causes motor to draw more current
  • Wiring issues: Undersized wire, loose connections
  • Motor winding damage: Short circuit in motor
  • Drive malfunction: Internal drive issue

System Conditions

  • High system pressure: Clogged filter, closed valves
  • Restricted flow: Blockage in return lines
  • Dead-heading: All valves closed

Troubleshooting Steps

Step 1: Check for Obvious Restrictions

  1. Turn off power to pump
  2. Open pump lid and check strainer basket
  3. Remove any debris from basket
  4. Visually inspect impeller for debris
  5. Check filter pressure - clean if high

Step 2: Verify Impeller Rotation

  1. With power off, try rotating impeller by hand
  2. It should rotate freely with some resistance
  3. If stuck or grinding, disassembly required

Step 3: Check Voltage

  1. Measure voltage at motor terminals while running
  2. Should be within 10% of 230V
  3. Low voltage increases current draw
  4. Check for voltage drop from panel to pump

Step 4: Inspect Wiring

  • Check wire gauge is adequate for run length
  • Inspect for loose or corroded connections
  • Look for damaged insulation
  • Verify proper grounding

Step 5: Test Motor

If other troubleshooting fails, motor may need testing:

  • Check motor windings for shorts
  • Verify insulation resistance
  • Listen for bearing noise
  • Check for shaft play

Cleaning the Impeller

  1. Turn off power at breaker
  2. Remove the 6 bolts holding housing to seal plate
  3. Slide motor and seal plate away from volute
  4. Remove diffuser and o-ring
  5. Remove reverse-thread impeller screw (turns clockwise to loosen)
  6. Remove and clean impeller
  7. Reinstall in reverse order

When to Replace Motor

Consider motor replacement if:

  • Motor windings show shorts when tested
  • Bearings are noisy or rough
  • Shaft has excessive play
  • Motor housing shows heat damage
  • Over current alarm persists after troubleshooting

Part Numbers

PartAlmondBlack
Motor, 3.2kW350305S350306S
Impeller (after 11/20)356237
Diffuser (after 11/20)356238

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