POOL SETUP:
12,500 Gallon Marcite Pool
Hayward Max-Flo II Pump
Hayward Sand Filter
Hayward Salt Chlorinator
Equipment replaced and resurfaced March 2010.
POOL SCENARIO:
I recently discovered my pump is losing partial prime every 15-20 seconds. The leaf basket water level drops to about half, then slowly refills. The process repeats about 10 seconds later. The return jets constantly produce a large number of air bubbles. I have replaced the leaf basket gasket, inspected and silicone lubricated the O-ring in front of the pump. I have tested for leaks on the suction side by running a hose over every above ground connection and using shaving cream. I have turned the pump on and off to see if water leaks from anywhere but nothing. I now suspect it is a broken pipe below ground. I have one pipe from the pump leading below ground.
Can this possible be anything other then a broken pipe below ground? Such as pump seal, clogged line, etc?
I have not been running the pump since this problem for fear of burning out the pump, as such the pool is now green. I have contacted a leak detection company but they will only pressure test the line and not do a through inspection until the pool is clear. Can I safely run the pump in this fashion without damaging it? Are there any other tests I can run to help determine if a break exists and where?
Any suggestions or thoughts would be appreciated.
Kevin
12,500 Gallon Marcite Pool
Hayward Max-Flo II Pump
Hayward Sand Filter
Hayward Salt Chlorinator
Equipment replaced and resurfaced March 2010.
POOL SCENARIO:
I recently discovered my pump is losing partial prime every 15-20 seconds. The leaf basket water level drops to about half, then slowly refills. The process repeats about 10 seconds later. The return jets constantly produce a large number of air bubbles. I have replaced the leaf basket gasket, inspected and silicone lubricated the O-ring in front of the pump. I have tested for leaks on the suction side by running a hose over every above ground connection and using shaving cream. I have turned the pump on and off to see if water leaks from anywhere but nothing. I now suspect it is a broken pipe below ground. I have one pipe from the pump leading below ground.
Can this possible be anything other then a broken pipe below ground? Such as pump seal, clogged line, etc?
I have not been running the pump since this problem for fear of burning out the pump, as such the pool is now green. I have contacted a leak detection company but they will only pressure test the line and not do a through inspection until the pool is clear. Can I safely run the pump in this fashion without damaging it? Are there any other tests I can run to help determine if a break exists and where?
Any suggestions or thoughts would be appreciated.
Kevin