Removing air from your swimming pool pump, often called priming the pump, is a crucial step to ensure proper water circulation and filtration. A pump filled with air cannot effectively pull water from the pool, leading to potential damage to the equipment and poor water quality.
Why Does Air Get Into the Pool Pump?
Air can enter the pump for several reasons, including:
- Low Water Level: If the water level in your pool drops below the skimmer opening, the pump will suck in air instead of water.
- Leaks in the Suction Line: Cracks or loose connections in pipes, skimmers, or the pump lid can draw air into the system.
- Backwashing/Maintenance: After certain maintenance tasks like backwashing the filter or cleaning the pump basket, air can become trapped.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Air
The primary goal is to fill the pump housing and the suction line with water so the impeller can create suction. Here are the common methods:
1. Turn Off the Pump
Safety first! Always turn off the pool pump and ensure the circuit breaker is switched off before performing any maintenance. This prevents injury and damage to the pump.
2. Inspect and Fill the Pump Basket
- Locate the pump's strainer basket housing, usually a clear lid on top of the pump.
- Carefully unscrew or unclamp the lid. Be prepared for some water to spill.
- Remove the basket and inspect it for debris. Clean if necessary.
- Fill the pump housing completely with water using a garden hose or a bucket. This is often the simplest way to prime the pump.
- Place the basket back in and securely re-attach the lid. Ensure the O-ring seal is clean and properly seated to prevent air leaks. Hand-tighten only – do not overtighten.
3. Check for Leaks in the Suction Side
Before restarting, visually inspect connections on the suction side of the pump (from the pool to the pump). Look at the skimmer, main drain valve (if applicable), pipe fittings, and the pump lid itself. Any loose connections or visible cracks can suck air.
4. Bleed Air from the Filter (If Applicable)
If your filter has an air bleed valve (usually a small knob or screw on top), open it while the pump is running (or attempting to run) to allow trapped air in the filter to escape. Close it once a steady stream of water comes out.
5. Restart the Pump
Once the pump housing is filled and all connections are secure, turn the power back on at the breaker and then start the pump. It may take a few minutes for the water to circulate and for all the air to be purged.
6. Use a Hose to Force Water (As Needed)
As mentioned in the reference: "In some cases, you can use a hose to force water into the pump. Turn off the pump, disconnect the hose from the skimmer or main drain, fill it with water, and reconnect it. This can help remove air pockets in the suction line."
This method involves working from the pool end of the suction line:
- Turn off the pump.
- Disconnect the hose or vacuum head from the skimmer or main drain port.
- Place a garden hose firmly into the disconnected pool-side opening (skimmer or main drain port) and turn on the water to force water back towards the pump. This pushes air pockets out of the suction line.
- Let the water run for a minute or two until you hear water flowing into the pump housing.
- Quickly remove the garden hose and reconnect the pool hose/vacuum head before too much air can re-enter.
- Proceed with step 5 (Restart the Pump).
Troubleshooting
If the pump still won't prime:
- Check the water level in the pool again.
- Re-check all connections on the suction side for leaks.
- Repeat the process of filling the pump basket.
- Ensure the skimmer weir door (flap) is not stuck closed.
- Make sure the pool drain covers are not blocked.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove air and restore proper function to your pool pump.
