How to Prime a Pool Pump

Priming your pool pump is an essential part of pool maintenance to ensure your filtration system operates efficiently. The process of priming removes air from the pump and filter system, allowing the pump to properly circulate water through the pool’s filtration system. Here's a simple guide on how to prime your pool pump.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Before you begin, always make sure the pump is turned off. This is crucial to avoid any potential damage to the system or injury. Disconnect the power to the pool pump by switching off the breaker or turning off the pump at the control panel.

Step 2: Check the Water Level in the Pool

Ensure that the water level in your pool is at least halfway up the skimmer. If the water level is too low, the pump could suck in air, which will make it harder to prime.

Step 3: Check the Pump Basket

• Open the pump lid to access the pump basket.
• Remove any debris that may be inside the basket.
• Check the O-ring around the lid to make sure it’s clean and free from damage. If the O-ring is damaged or dirty, it could cause air leaks, making priming more difficult. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the O-ring if needed.
• Reinstall the pump lid securely.

Step 4: Fill the Pump Basket with Water

If the pump basket is dry, it’s important to fill it with water to help the pump prime. You can either:

• Use a garden hose to fill the basket, or
• Use water from the pool skimmer (if possible) to fill the pump basket.

Filling the pump basket with water helps prevent the pump from running dry, which could damage the pump's motor.

Step 5: Open the Air Bleed Valve (If Applicable)

If your pool filter has an air bleed valve (usually located on the top of the filter), open it slightly to allow trapped air to escape. Once water begins to flow from the valve, you can close it to prevent air from entering.

Step 6: Turn On the Pump

• Now that the basket is filled and the air valve is open, turn the power back on to the pool pump.
• If your pump is equipped with a priming switch, flip it on. This will help the pump start to pull water through the system.
• You should hear the pump begin to make noise as it starts drawing water.

Step 7: Wait for the Pump to Prime

• Allow the pump to run for several minutes. Watch for signs of air bubbles in the pump basket or in the sight glass (if your pump has one). This will indicate that the air is being cleared from the system.
• If you have a clear sight glass, you will notice the water flowing through the pump and filter system, replacing the air.

Step 8: Check for Proper Flow

Once the air is cleared, check for a steady flow of water coming from the pool return lines. The pump should be making a consistent noise, and there should be no air bubbles in the system.

Step 9: Inspect for Leaks

• After the pump is running smoothly, inspect the pump and filter for any potential air or water leaks.
• Check the pump lid, filter connections, and any hoses attached to the system. Tighten any loose connections or fittings to ensure a proper seal.

Step 10: Adjust the Skimmer and Pump Settings (if necessary)

Once the pump is primed, you may need to adjust the skimmer settings, suction valves, or return lines for optimal water flow. Your pump should be working efficiently now, and water should be circulating properly through the filtration system.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Pump is not priming: If the pump is struggling to prime, check the pool’s water level, make sure the pump basket is full, and look for any air leaks. Also, ensure that the filter’s air bleed valve is functioning correctly.
• Air bubbles in the pump basket: Persistent air bubbles could indicate an air leak in the suction lines, pump lid, or filter system. Inspect all connections and seals carefully.
• Pump is running dry: If the pump is still not drawing water after priming, turn it off immediately to prevent damage and check for blockages in the intake lines or skimmer.