How to Get Air out of a Swimming Pool Pump
The pool pump is a crucial part in the swimming pool’s plumbing as it ensures proper flow of water and circulation. When your pump is not moving water efficiently or forcefully, water is trapped inside. Priming the pump takes a few steps--and in some cases repeated a few times--to restore the prime and contribute to quality pool water.
Turn the power to the pump off by switching the circuit breaker to off or unplugging the electrical cord.
Close the outlet valve on the skimmer. Close both the inlet and outlet valve on the pump. Depending on the model pump, it may have only an outlet valve.
- The pool pump is a crucial part in the swimming pool’s plumbing as it ensures proper flow of water and circulation.
- Turn the power to the pump off by switching the circuit breaker to off or unplugging the electrical cord.
Twist open the lid of the pump slowly. This process allows air to escape from the pump and relieves pressure.
Remove the strainer basket within the pump and clean out any debris, leaves or sticks that are in the strainer. Rinse the strainer with a garden hose to ensure all dirt is removed. Place the strainer back into place on the pump.
Fill the strainer basket and pump with water using a garden hose. Replace the pump lid by placing the lid in place and pushing down while twisting. Tighten the lid to avoid air getting into the water line.
- Twist open the lid of the pump slowly.
- Replace the pump lid by placing the lid in place and pushing down while twisting.
Restore power to your pool pump. Slowly open the valve on the pool skimmer to allow proper flow of water. Open the inlet valve on the pool pump, followed by the outlet valve. Open all valves slowly to prevent fast water flow and air bubbles. You will notice as you open the valves, the pump will catch its prime and the water will be pumping efficiently. Repeat these steps as necessary.
Hours Should A Swimming Pool Pump Run?
Your pool pump is used for a few reasons. The pump also helps distribute the chemicals that keep the pool's water clean and clear and removes debris, carrying it through the pool’s main drain and into a basket, where it can be discarded. Pools generally don’t require pumps using more than 1 1/2 horsepower; these larger, more powerful pumps tend to circulate the water through the filter too rapidly for proper cleaning. Empty your pool’s straining baskets daily to reduce the chance of clogged drains, which cause the pump to work harder.
- Restore power to your pool pump.
- Slowly open the valve on the pool skimmer to allow proper flow of water.
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Writer Bio
Johnathan Cronk is a freelance writer and began writing at the age of 18. Throughout his career he has specialized in sports, how-to and advice articles. He has also written sales pitches in the corporate setting since 2001. He studied business at Hudson Valley Community College before transferring to the State University of New York, Albany.
