It is vital to maintain clean and safe water in the swimming pool, so a pool pump is of utmost importance.
You may not give your pool pump a second thought when everything is running smoothly. Nevertheless, you should not disregard the device at your own peril because if your pump fails, your pool will be rendered useless.
It is likely that there is debris buildup in the skimmer, pump baskets, and filter if your pump does not pull water.
It is also possible for the pump impeller to clog occasionally, so this should be examined as well. There could also be an air leak in the suction line.
I would try running a garden hose through the water inlet pipe with everything off by opening the pump basket and turning it half or full until water starts flowing again. Try to put it back together and see if that helps.
Still Not Pulling Water?
It is most likely that the baskets are full of debris that are causing low or no flow. In order to allow the system to have full ‘priming’ and function at full capacity, both the skimmer basket and pump basket need to be checked and emptied.
Make sure that the pump is off before removing the baskets, and if your pool pump is below water level, close the valves in front of the pump and set the filter’s multiport valve to ‘closed’.
Troubleshooting Pool Pump Not Pulling Water From Skimmer Issue
When a pool pump is not pulling water from the skimmer, it could be due to various reasons. Here are some common issues and troubleshooting steps to help you identify and potentially resolve the problem:
1. Check the Skimmer Basket:
Sometimes, a clogged or full skimmer basket can restrict water flow. Make sure to clean out any debris or leaves that might be blocking the skimmer.
2. Check the Pump Basket:
Similarly, the pump basket might be clogged. Turn off the pump and remove the pump basket. Clean out any debris that may have accumulated.
3. Check the Pump Lid O-ring:
The pump lid has an O-ring that helps create a seal. If this O-ring is damaged or improperly positioned, it can cause the pump to lose its prime, preventing it from pulling water effectively. Check the O-ring and replace it if necessary.
4. Check the Pump Impeller:
Debris can sometimes get stuck in the pump impeller, inhibiting its ability to draw water. Disassemble the pump and inspect the impeller for any obstructions. Remove any debris carefully.
5. Check the Water Level:
Ensure that the water level in the pool is high enough for the skimmer to function properly. If the water level is too low, the skimmer might not be able to pull in water effectively.
6. Check the Skimmer Weir/Gate:
Sometimes, the skimmer weir or gate can get stuck in the closed position, preventing water from entering the skimmer. Make sure the skimmer weir moves freely and is not obstructed.
7. Check the Suction Line:
Check the suction line for any clogs or obstructions. If there’s a blockage, clear it out carefully. Also, ensure there are no leaks in the suction line.
8. Check the Pump and Filter System:
If you’ve gone through all the above steps and the issue persists, there might be an issue with the pump or the filter system itself.
It could be a problem with the pump motor, the impeller, or the filter. In this case, it might be necessary to call a professional pool technician to diagnose and resolve the problem.
Most Common Swimming Pool Pump Problems
The following are some common problems with swimming pool pumps that you should look out for and how to fix them.
Air Is Sucked Into The Motor/Pump
When pool pumps have large air leaks, circulation is affected and the pump is difficult to prime.
There are several causes of air leaks before the impeller, including:
- The pipe enters the pump through poorly sealed threads
- Suction valve stem leaks
- There is a leak in the plumbing
- It may be caused by a poorly fitting lid or o’ring on the pump lid
- There is a loose drain plug.
In order to check for air leaks, spread shaving foam over joints and fittings on the suction side of the pump as it runs. Because foam has less resistance than water, the pump will attempt to pull it into the pipe.
You’ll notice a layer of dimples as air is sucked into the system, revealing what needs repair or replacement.
Motor Won’t Start Or Turns Off
Before diving deeper, make sure the motor is getting power. The motor should hum or click once you’ve confirmed this. There may be a capacitor issue if the motor hums without starting.
In some cases, a motor that starts and then stops quickly may be overheating, due to a mismatch between the motor and the pump it drives.
There can also be an issue with the fan or the vent may have become clogged with dirt, leaves, or other debris causing overheating. For optimal performance, make sure the vents are clear and there is ample space around the motor.
The Pump Is Making A Loud Noise
There is a possibility that the unit is not properly seated on its base if the pump is rattling. Try seating the pump on a rubber mat if the noise persists. Make sure the pump is well positioned.
Pumps suffer from cavitation when they run without water. There is a banging sound when the pump impeller rotates too quickly and beats the air molecules out of the water.
You should check the filter and impeller for clogs and ensure that the pump is the right size.
Almost all well-used pool pumps will wear out their bearings over time. The replacement of failed bearings can be handled by a swimming pool pump repair expert.
The Pump Is Leaking
The o rings of impeller housings, thread sealants, and shaft seals deteriorate over time, resulting in leaks.
A small seal split can cause a leak because water finds its way through even the smallest gaps. Make sure seals are regularly checked and replaced.
Final Tips
Check the skimmer baskets as well to make sure that they aren’t full of leaves. Also, check the skimmer door to see if it is stuck closed.
Ensure that the skimmer is filled with water and that the water level is not too low. The pump lid or pump basket should be checked for debris or cracks.
Make sure the pump lid is tightly sealed. Turn off the system, open the pump lid, and add water to it with a hose. If it still does not prime, turn off the system.
Replace the lid, remove the hose, and turn the system on. Are there still no results? The suction side might be clogged, the valves might be positioned incorrectly, or perhaps there is a leak.
