How to Spot Common Issues with Your Pool Pump


When it comes to keeping your pool water clean and temperate, everything starts with the pool pump. Among all components including your pool heater and your pool filter, the pool pump is by far the most important, since none of the other pool equipment will work without water circulation. Because of its importance, you should always be on the lookout for any possible issues at may be caused by clogs, leaks or just normal wear and tear. Below you'll find some brief descriptions of common pool pump issues along with helpful tips about how you can deal with each issue.

Pool Pump is Sucking Air
For any pool pump to properly function, it must be able to pump water through a completely sealed system of pipes, intakes and discharges. If the pool pump starts to suck air into the system, it will not run efficiently because the pump will be unable to prime. If you notice air pockets beneath the transparent pump lid, the first thing you should do is turn off the pump and check to make sure the lid is secured properly. If the air continues to be present in the pump, there may be an issue with the seal on your pump's water intake. If this is the case, you may want to enlist some professional help to make sure your pool pump is properly resealed.

Low Flow Rate
For any pool system to function properly, water must circulate through the system at an adequate flow rate. If your pump isn't maintaining this flow rate, the water quality of your pool in terms of overall cleanliness will decline. Before that happens, there are some ways you can determine whether your pool pump is maintaining a proper flow rate. If the discharge jets in the pool are pumping water out at a noticeably slower rate, you should take a look at the pressure gauge on your filter. If the pressure is 10 psi above the manufacturer's recommended level, there is likely a clog causing your pool pump to move less water through the system. This clog is likely in the pool filter, or the pump basket filter, which you can easily clear yourself. If you are unable to locate the clog in one of these locations, it might be in the mechanism itself, which will require an experienced professional to clear.

Pump is Leaking Water
If you find some water pooling beneath your pool pump as the motor is running, you should immediately shut down the system to prevent further damage and to avoid a potentially hazardous situation for yourself. Typically, water leaks in a pool pump are found in older models that haven't been regularly serviced by a pool care professional. In some cases it is just a matter of replacing an o-ring or seal inside the pump itself, which is best left up to a trained professional. If you are inclined to perform the repairs yourself however, there are o-ring replacement kits available at your local pool shop.


If you notice any strange sounds or issues with your pool pump, the best way to ensure the problem is fixed properly is to enlist the help of the experts at Pool Problems?. Our highly skilled staff will be able to quickly identify any issue with your pool pump, and provide you with a lasting solution. We offer free estimates on all of our quality pool care services, so be sure to call us today! 

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