How do you test an inground pool pump to see if it works without water in the pool?

You have to be sure that there is no standing water on the equipment pad if that is where you plan on testing the motor. You do not want to be standing in water, even if it is just a small amount, while you test and hook up the electrical to the motor.

You can test the pump motor be safely and temporarily hooking the electrical power source to the motor. You have to be sure that you also connect the ground wire in conjunction with the other wires. Follow the diagram on the motor nomenclature (ID) plate. With the power now on after the above installation, then you may briefly switch on the power to the motor. Run the power/motor only long enough to determine that it will run ~ one (1) to two (2) minutes. Running the motor any longer will damage the pump seal and possibly other components. k