Getting water into your pool pump, especially when it's dry, is typically part of the priming process. This is essential because a dry pump cannot pull water from the pool effectively.
Why Add Water to Your Pool Pump?
A pool pump needs to be filled with water to create the necessary suction to draw water from the pool through the skimmers or main drain. If the pump housing is dry, it will just run without moving water, which can lead to overheating and damage. Adding water manually fills the pump housing, allowing the impeller to catch the water and start the flow from the pool.
Steps to Get Water Into Your Pool Pump (Priming)
When your pool pump is dry or has lost its prime, you need to add water to the pump housing to re-establish suction. Here’s how you typically do it:
- Turn Off the Pump: Always ensure the pump is switched off at the circuit breaker before performing any maintenance. Safety first!
- Close Valves (Optional but Recommended): If you have valves on the suction and return lines, closing them can help prevent water from draining back out while you are filling the pump.
- Open the Pump Lid: Locate the lid on top of the pump's basket housing (the large clear or opaque lid). Unscrew or unclamp it carefully.
- Fill the Pump Housing with Water: This is the crucial step. Use a hose or bucket to fill the pump basket area completely with water.
- Reference Insight: As noted in steps to prime a pool pump, if the pump is dry, you will need to add water before turning the pump back on. Allow the water to run into the pump housing for at least a minute or so, to allow as much water as possible to seep into the pumps that extend from the skimmer. This means filling the pump area thoroughly and giving the water time to flow into the pipes connected to the skimmer and main drain line, helping to eliminate air pockets.
- Replace the Lid: Clean the lid gasket and the rim of the pump housing. Place the lid back on and secure it tightly. Hand-tight is usually sufficient; do not overtighten. Ensure a good seal to prevent air leaks.
- Open Valves: If you closed any valves in step 2, open them now to allow water flow from the pool.
- Turn On the Pump: Switch the pump back on at the circuit breaker.
- Check for Prime: The pump should start pulling water and pushing it back to the pool returns within a minute or two. You should see water flowing through the clear pump lid (if applicable) and feel pressure at the return lines.
If the pump doesn't prime on the first try, you may need to repeat steps 3-7. Air leaks in the suction line or a low pool water level are common reasons for difficulty priming.
Common Reasons Your Pump Might Be Dry
Understanding why your pump lost water can help prevent it from happening again:
- Low Pool Water Level: Skimmers start sucking air.
- Air Leak in Suction Line: Cracks in pipes, loose fittings, or a faulty pump lid gasket.
- Backwashing Filter: Sometimes air gets into the pump after backwashing.
- Pump Was Off for an Extended Period: Water may have drained back to the pool or filter.
Troubleshooting Table
| Issue | Possible Cause(s) | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pump won't prime | Air leak, low water level, clogged skimmer | Check seals, add water to pool, clear debris |
| Water drains back | Leaky check valve, plumbing issue | Inspect valves, consult a pool professional |
| Loud, whining noise | Dry pump, cavitation (air in system) | Turn off, add water, re-prime, check for leaks |
By following these steps and ensuring the pump housing is filled with water, allowing it time to settle into the connecting pipes as recommended, you can successfully get water into your pool pump and get your circulation system running smoothly.
