Keeping your pool clean and clear starts with a properly working pump. If your pump has lost its prime, it won’tt circulate water, and your pool can quickly turn green. Knowing how to prime a pool pump is an essential skill for any pool owner to master. It’s a simple process that can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
A primed pump means it’s full of water and ready to create the suction needed to pull water from the pool, through the filter, and back out again. When air gets into the system, the pump can’t create that suction and it runs dry, which can lead to serious damage. Let’s walk through the steps to get your water flowing again.
How to Prime a Pool Pump
Before you start, gather a few supplies. You’ll need a garden hose with a good flow of water, your pool’s skimmer basket and pump lid handy, and possibly some pool pump lubricant for the lid o-ring. Make sure your pool’s water level is at least halfway up the skimmer opening. If it’s too low, the pump will just suck more air.
Step-by-Step Priming Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to prime your pool pump successfully.
1. Turn Off the Power. This is the most important safety step. Go to your circuit breaker or timer and turn the power to the pool pump completely off. Never work on the pump while it is energized.
2. Set the Multiport Valve. If you have a sand or DE filter with a multiport valve, set it to “FILTER.” The “RECIRCULATE” setting also works for priming. Avoid settings like “WASTE,” “BACKWASH,” or “RINSE,” as they will drain water away from the pump.
3. Open the Pump Lid. Locate the clear lid on the front of your pump pot. Twist it counter-clockwise to release it. Some lids have a bleed screw you might need to loosen first. Remove the lid and set it aside safely.
4. Fill the Pump Pot with Water. Take your garden hose and fill the pump pot (the basket housing) completely to the brim with water. This water gives the pump the initial liquid it needs to start creating suction. Check the basket for debris and clean it if needed while it’s out.
5. Re-seal the Pump Lid. Before replacing the lid, inspect the o-ring—that rubber gasket around the rim. Clean it and apply a thin coat of pool lube if it looks dry. This ensures an airtight seal. Place the basket back in, then carefully screw the lid back on tightly.
6. Open Air Relief Valves. On top of your filter tank, there is an air relief valve. Open this valve by turning it counter-clockwise. This allows trapped air to escape from the filter as the system fills.
7. Turn the Power Back On. Return to your power source and turn the pump back on. You should immediately see water start to rush into the pump pot through the clear lid.
8. Close the Air Relief Valve. Once a steady stream of water (not air) shoots out of the air relief valve, close it by turning it clockwise. Your pump is now primed and should show normal pressure on the filter gauge.
What to Do If the Pump Won’t Prime
Sometimes, the pump doesn’t prime on the first try. Don’t panic. Here are the most common reasons and fixes.
* Check for Suction-Side Leaks: The most common culprit is an air leak on the suction side of the pump (between the pump and the pool). Check that the pump lid is on tightly and the o-ring is sealed. Inspect the union fittings and valves for cracks.
* Verify the Water Level: Double-check that your pool water is high enough. It should cover at least the bottom half of the skimmer opening.
* Look for Clogs: A massive clog in the skimmer, pump basket, or impeller can block water flow. Turn the power off and physically check and clear each spot.
* Prime for Longer: For systems with long pipe runs, you may need to run the hose water into the pump pot for a full minute or two before starting to ensure all pipes are full.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Preventing the need to prime is easier than fixing it. A little regular care goes a long way.
* Maintain Proper Water Level. Always keep your pool water at the recommended level, especialy during hot, dry spells when evaporation is high.
* Lubricate O-Rings Annually. Once a season, clean and lubricate the o-rings on the pump lid, filter valves, and drain plugs. This keeps them pliable and sealing properly.
* Clean Baskets Regularly. Empty the skimmer and pump baskets at least once a week. A full basket restricts flow and can cause the pump to lose prime.
* Winterize Properly. If you close your pool for winter, follow the correct winterization steps to clear water from the pump and pipes, preventing freeze damage that causes leaks.
Using a Self-Priming Pump Correctly
Many modern pool pumps are labeled “self-priming.” This doesn’t mean they can start dry. It means that once they have water in the pump pot, they can expell air from the system on their own. You still must manually fill the pump pot with water if it’s completely empty. Always treat a self-priming pump as if it needs a manual prime for the best results and to avoid damage.
When to Call a Professional
Most priming issues you can handle yourself. However, there are times when it’s best to call in a pro. If you’ve checked for leaks, clogs, and water level, and the pump still won’t prime after several attempts, you might have a deeper problem. A cracked pipe underground, a failing shaft seal, or a damaged impeller require specialized tools and expertise to repair. Don’t keep running a dry pump, as you’ll burn out the motor.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
Keep this list handy next time your pump loses prime:
* [ ] Power is OFF before starting.
* [ ] Pool water level is sufficient.
* [ ] Pump pot and basket are full of water.
* [ ] Pump lid o-ring is clean, lubed, and sealed.
* [ ] Skimmer weir door is not stuck.
* [ ] Skimmer and pump baskets are empty.
* [ ] All suction-side valves are fully open.
* [ ] Multiport valve is set to “FILTER.”
* [ ] Air relief valve is open during start-up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I need to prime my pool pump?
A: You should rarely need to prime it. A properly sealed system only needs priming after opening the pool for the season, after cleaning the filter, or if you’ve had to open the pump basket. Needing to prime frequently indicates an air leak.
Q: Can running a pump dry break it?
A: Yes, absolutely. Running a pool pump without water, even for a few minutes, can overheat and melt the internal seals and plastic components. This leads to costly repairs or a full pump replacement.
Q: My pump primes but loses prime after turning off. Why?
A: This almost always points to a suction-side air leak. When the pump is on, it’s pulling water so hard it might still work with a small leak. When it’s off, air sneaks in and fills the pipes. Check all lid seals and fittings.
Q: Is there a difference between priming a new pump and an old one?
A: The process is identical. However, new pumps may have tighter seals, while older pumps might have worn o-rings or cracks that make holding a prime more difficult. The steps to prime them remain the same.
Q: How long does it take to prime a pool pump?
A: A typical priming process takes 2-5 minutes once you start the pump. If it takes longer than a minute or two to see water filling the pump pot, turn it off and re-check for issues like closed valves or clogs.
Mastering the simple task of priming your pool pump ensures your pool stays healthy and inviting all season long. By following these clear steps and performing routine maintenance, you’ll keep the water circulating perfectly and avoid most common pump problems. Remember, a well-primed pump is a happy pump, and that means a clear, sparkling pool for you to enjoy.