Once the plugs are in, equipment is ready to turn on. This can be done if there is adequate water in the pool. For pool filters with a multi- position head, you can make initial start-up easier by starting the equipment with the filter in “recirculate” or “whirlpool” mode. This setting on the filter head allows the water to bypass the filter this taking most of the system pressure out drain f the equation. The pump will have an easier and faster prime. To prime the pump, remove the lid, fill the front basket section of the pump as full as possible with water, secure the pump lid, start the pump. Most pool pumps will prime using this method.

There are several reasons a pump may not prime:

  1. There are shut off valves that are closed. Look not only for valves in front of the pump, but also possibly on the return line.
  2. The filter valve is in the closed position.
  3. The pump is getting air in it. The most common ways a pump can suck air is from bad o-rings on the plugs, a bad lid o-ring, a bad seal on the front fitting going into the pump, or valves that have seals that are bad.
  4. A plugged suction line.

Common Issue: “I turned my pump on but it just hums and then shuts off.”

It is common for a pump to ‘freeze-up’ over the winter months when it is just sitting idle. First, with the pump off, open the front lid, and try to manually turn the impeller by sticking your fingers down the throat and turning it. If it turns, rotated it about ¼ turn, rescuer the basket and pump lid and try it again. If it doesn’t start it is time to contact us.

I wish you a happy pool season!