Why is my pool pump not working properly?

Pool pumps, at times, can be finicky and cause problems with the pool circulation system.  Although there are many reasons your pump may be causing you problems, here are a few of the more common issues you can check before calling a pool professional out to help.  (Some troubleshooting is duplicated through the various issues, these are most certainly the first items that should be checked for any pump issues you may have.)

Little to no suction

• Check the pump basket and ensure you have no debris clogging the flow of the water.  (Also check the skimmer basket for any debris it has collected.)
•  Debris clogging the impeller.  Before checking the impeller for debris, make sure you turn the pump off from the breaker, do not attempt to put your hand in the pump without the power turned off.
• Make sure the water level in the pool is high enough so water can flow into the skimmer (about ½ – ¾ up the skimmer opening).
• Check to make sure the skimmer weir (the little flappy door) is not stuck in the up position.  If this is the issue, try filing the edges to prevent it from happening in the future, or purchase a new door.

Air bubbles in the pump

• Check the pool to ensure the water in the pool is at the correct level.  The water should be ½ to ¾ up the opening of the skimmer. 

• Have a look at the weir door (floating door) and ensure it is moving with the flow of the water and not stuck in the up position.  If it is stuck in the up position, you may need to file the edges slightly to keep it from sticking in the future or replace the weir door.

If you have a Variable Speed Pump and notice the bubbles when you run the pump at a slower speed, don’t panic, this is normal.

A lot of little bubbles, however, is a sign of an air leak.  Common air leak sources to look for include:

• A loose pump lid – pump lids must be on tight!
• A dirty or worn lid O-Ring.  Try adding a small amount of lube to the O-ring or replacing the O-ring to see if this solves the issue.
• A crack in the pump lid can also allow air to come into the pump causing the bubbles. Check the lid over for even a small hairline crack.  If you find one, be sure to replace the lid.

Should the lid and O-ring seem to be fine, check the fitting that goes into the pump to ensure that it is not cracked and that it was threaded in properly.  If necessary, change out the fitting to block any air leaks to the pump. 

Priming issues

• Make sure the water level in the pool is high enough so water can flow into the skimmer (about ½ – ¾ up the skimmer opening).
• Check the lid and the lid O-ring to ensure you have a tight seal.  If the O-ring looks worn it may need to be replaced. If it appears dry, try adding a little lube to it.  If the lid has a crack, it should be replaced.  Any issues with the lid or the O-ring may allow air to enter the pump and cause priming issues.
• Check to make sure the skimmer weir (the little flappy door) is not stuck in the up position.  If this is the issue, try filing the edges to prevent it from happening in the future, or purchase a new door.
• Is the pump installed a distance from the pool or is it elevated above the water level?  The time needed to prime the pump could be longer.
• Check to make sure the basket is free of debris.

If you are still experiencing issues with your pool pump, please contact your pool professional to arrange a service call or for further troubleshooting tips.