Skimmer Motor Dying? - Resolved

I have a Tunze 9002 Skimmer and it will randomly slowdown for about 3 minuets and speed back up. Is this a sign of my motor going out or something else?

 

I imagine you're hearing a change in pitch to assume this?

Can you actually see the difference in the water flow exiting the skimmer?

I would guess the motor is suspect.

The most unlikely scenario is minor changes in your home electrical current but you just may not noticing it anywhere else. I suspect you have most of your electronic equipment plugged into surge strips which will help reduce it.
If this were the case, you'd likely be able to see that change with an incandescent bulb not plugged into surge protection, ie lamp or ceiling light...

 

I can see and hear a difference in the skimmer performance. I plan to tear it apart tonight to see if anything is blocking the airline. Also when there is a change in the skimmer it lasts for a few minutes.

 

Pulling the pump apart might yield some interesting results. Sometimes crud can get stuck in there, causing some resistance to the motor. Give it a good cleaning tonight, and observe tomorrow once it's broken back in.

 

Took apart the skimmer and there was salt buildup in my airline, I have no idea who that was possible but good news my old pump is still strong.

 

Salt build up in the air line is a regular occurrence and every one should be doing routine maintenance to see that it is clear.

Glad it's fixed... but do you mean the pump was actually shutting off, or the skimmer "shutting down" meaning bubbles?

When the line gets restricted, instead of drawing air, it moves more water... The usual obvious first indication is the skimmer runs too high, skimmate get wet, water level rises... so you keep adjusting it over time, until then you fix it. So if your stuff runs pretty regular and it starts running wet/high, check the line first before adjusting.