Accidentally ran pump dry..

[kpowell916]

I accidentally ran pump dry for about 15 hours. The pump is still “working,” but I realized something was wrong when my pool turned green. Cartridge filter: went to swap out with the clean one and only the bottom section was wet/dirty. Put the clean filter in and made sure water filled to the top and the pump primed. All was well. Vacuumed twice, brushed the surfaces, slammed with shock, no difference. Turned off pump and water sloshed out of skimmer basket/sputtered out of return. Opened the filter and still everything but the bottom section is dry. Any advice? I saw it could be a blown seal, but I don’t see anything leaking. Any advice would be much appreciated.

 

[mknauss]

Are you getting air in the system with the pump running? Many times the pump wet end can warp and the lid will not seal.

 

[kpowell916]

Are you getting air in the system with the pump running? Many times the pump wet end can warp and the lid will not seal.

I believe that’s what’s happening. Is the pump wet end the screw top lid on the pump?

 

[mknauss]

Yes. It is likely you need to get a new pump wet end. Along with seals, etc.

What pump do you have?

 

[kpowell916]

Yes. It is likely you need to get a new pump wet end. Along with seals, etc.

What pump do you have?

Blue Torrent

 

[mknauss]

That the motor. What about the pump?

 

[kpowell916]

That the motor. What about the pump?

Sorry, I didn’t realize there was a difference. Is this the pump?

 

[mknauss]

Yes. Are there any tags, labels, etc?

 

[kpowell916]

I see no labels, but now I do see a leak.

 

[mknauss]

You have a single speed motor. Is it time to get a VS system and reduce your electrical use and have a quieter pump?

Take a picture of the whole system.

Any chance you can fill out your signature? Knowing your entire pool system really helps us help you.

 

[kpowell916]

I’ve left but I will tomorrow! What are the benefits of the vs? Less electrical usage? I’m in NE Ohio, so our pool season is ending soon. I’d probably be better off waiting to switch pumps until next year, right?

 

[mknauss]

A VS pump is less electrical use and quieter.
If what you have works now, you can wait. But sounds like things are not looking good if you have a water leak and air leak.

 

[kpowell916]

A VS pump is less electrical use and quieter.
If what you have works now, you can wait. But sounds like things are not looking good if you have a water leak and air leak.

Okay, I filled in my signature info. I changed the seal on the pump lid, but it’s still taking in air. When the pump is on there’s no water leaking, but when it’s off I get some pretty steady drips. Is there anything else to try before replacing the pump?

 

[mknauss]

Air means the pump is warped. I suspect you need to replace it.

 

[kpowell916]

Air means the pump is warped. I suspect you need to replace it.

Dang. I was hoping for the $20 fix, lol Thanks for your insight!