Forgive my ignorance, but can an o-ring make my pump suck air and lose pressure? I have been trying to figure out why my pump is working so poorly. The o-rings look a little dry rotted, but they are still there. It seems impossible to think that such a tiny crack in an o-ring could cause such a problem.
Can an O-Ring really cause trouble?
- Thread starter SusanB
- Start date
Yes, a bad o-ring could cause that problem. It only takes a very small crack for air to get in and cause the pump to either lose pressure, since air doesn't pump nearly as well as water does, or lose prime completely.
If that is the case, then I guess I will try to get some new o-rings before I call intex and tell them that I need a new pump. Does anyone know if I have to special order the o-rings or can they be bought at a local hardware store?
I would take an old one with me and try a hardware store or pool store first. Also pick up a tube of silicon pool lube to help get a good seal with the o-rings.
Welcome to TFP!!
Jason is 'spot on' with his advice
Zea's advice is excellent too (as long as the o-ring hasn't warped, which it hasn't in your case)
Jason is 'spot on' with his advice
Zea's advice is excellent too (as long as the o-ring hasn't warped, which it hasn't in your case)
Thanks for your help. I really hope I can find some at a hardware store because Intex wants $9.99 for two piddly little o-rings. I will keep my fingers crossed that I can get them locally without having to spend an arm and a leg.
I read this post title and thought of the Challenger explosion. It's impressive what an O-ring can do.
Ohm_Boy said:
You are absolutely right. I hadn't even thought about how such a simple piece can make such a significant impact on a piece of machinery.
If anyone is interested, Lowes carries all sorts of o-rings. I did find some that worked in the faucet department. Unfortunately, the pump is still acting squirrelly, so I may have to see if I can get it replaced under warranty.