Debris clogging the pump

[todapo]

Hi everyone, I’m new to TFP and pool ownership so here goes.
I have an 18’ above ground pool with trees nearby. When I opened it this year there was alot of leaves on the bottom. I did my best to take them out with a net. The pool is cloudy so I can’t see the bottom, I tried to vacuum and the pump impeller gets clogged immediately with small bits of leaves.
I’m at a loss on how to proceed, I’ve called local pool services to open the pool but they’re all too busy.
Any help is greatly appreciated
Tony

 

[Texas Splash]

Hi Tony and welcome to TFP! So a few things to help get you started:
1 - Do you have a proper test kit? A TF-100 (link in my signature) or Taylor K-2006C? If not, you really need one.
2 - To kill & remove algae, you need to conduct the SLAM Process using one of those test kits.
3 - Use what we call a skimmer sock in your skimmer. It picks-up debris before it can get to the pump. It should help.

Also refer to the link below for tons of great info about pool care. I'm sure it will help. If you have any questions let us know.

Pool Care Basics Archives

Your one-stop shop for all things TFP to include: ABCs of Water Chemistry, Recommended Chemicals/Levels, Test Kits, Troubleshooting, and much more!

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[todapo78]

Thanks so much for the quick reply, I bought the FAS-DPD test kit, and have been using pool test strips for everything else. I'll check into the two kits you mentioned. I'll order the skimmer sock today, I'll need to sweep the bottom to get the debris to the top? This site is so helpful! I spent hours on it last night learning all sorts of things. Thanks again for your help!
Suppose I should get back to work now

 

[SecoSteve]

Do you have the strainer basket installed in the pump? That should prevent a lot of debris from getting to the impeller. Maybe you forgot to install that upon opening.

 

[MITBeta]

I'll need to sweep the bottom to get the debris to the top?

How are you vacuuming? Most manual vacuums pull through the skimmer and basket. So putting a skimmer sock in there will lessen the load into the pump and filter.