To get air out of your pool system, you typically use the bleeder valve located on your filter.
Air trapped in your pool's circulation system can reduce efficiency, strain your pump, and prevent proper filtration. Releasing this air is a crucial maintenance step. The primary method involves using the filter's air bleeder valve.
Using the Bleeder Valve
As highlighted in maintenance guides, many pool filters, particularly cartridge filters, are equipped with an air bleeder valve specifically for this purpose.
- Locate the Valve: Find the bleeder valve on your filter. According to the reference, on some cartridge filters, this is an orange lever located at the top.
- Ensure Pump is Running: Make sure your pool pump is running. Air is typically bled out while the system is under pressure.
- Open Slowly: Turn the lever slowly.
- Listen for Hissing: As you open the valve, you should hear a hissing sound. This is the trapped air being released.
- Wait for Water: Keep the valve open until the hissing stops and a steady stream of water comes out instead of air.
- Close the Valve: Once only water is coming out, slowly close the bleeder valve completely.
Why Air Gets into the System
Understanding the common causes helps prevent air from entering in the first place:
- Low Water Level: The water level in the pool falls below the skimmer opening, allowing the pump to suck in air.
- Leaky Suction Lines: Cracks or loose connections in pipes leading from the pool to the pump (skimmer lines, main drain line).
- Loose Pump Lid: The O-ring on the pump basket lid is dry, cracked, or the lid isn't sealed properly.
- Loose Fittings: Air leaks at fittings before the pump.
- Pump Issues: Sometimes, issues with the pump itself can draw air.
Troubleshooting Persistent Air Problems
If air keeps entering your system after bleeding the filter, investigate these potential causes:
| Potential Cause | Action Required |
|---|---|
| Low Water Level | Add water to the pool until it's halfway up the skimmer. |
| Loose Pump Lid | Turn off the pump, check the O-ring (clean, lubricate, replace if needed), and ensure the lid is screwed on tightly. |
| Leaky Suction Lines | Inspect visible plumbing for drips or wet spots when the pump is off; professional leak detection may be needed for underground pipes. |
| Loose Fittings | Check and tighten all threaded connections leading to the pump. |
Regularly checking your pool's water level and ensuring your pump and filter components are properly sealed are the best ways to minimize air in the system.
