Skimmer Suction Air Leak - Hypothetical?

[Turbo1Ton]

Yeah, this was a thought as well, but I pressure tested the line a few times and it held. I had virtually all of it exposed as well. I do have a concern about the first couple inches into the skimmer before the PVC which is why I was contemplating a Frankenplug in the skimmer hole. But being under the concrete decking, I would think the rains would not have effected that area to cause a change.

Hmmm... This is perplexing. The frankenplug idea may be the best option. Yeah, wouldn't think that being under the decking the rains would have an effect.

I guess keep an eye on it as the rains begin to subside and things dry up.

--Jeff

 

[DavidLast]

Is water level higher in the pool?

 

[Texas Splash]

Is water level higher in the pool?

Not really any different than before. I always keep the water level between 1/2 to 3/4 up the skimmer mouth.

 

[DavidLast]

Not really any different than before. I always keep the water level between 1/2 to 3/4 up the skimmer mouth.

Sorry, did you drain any water off?

 

[Texas Splash]

Sorry, did you drain any water off?

No

 

[DavidLast]

No

Most likely, the water depth has altered, not much, but just enough to correct the pump. Using a pencil, could you mark the water level inside the skimmer box where it is now, don't fill it unless you are running out of water and see if the issue returns? When and if it returns, mark the water level again, which can be your fill and empty levels.

A second and less likely cause is the water depth increased enough to clear an air blockage in the suction line.

Another and even less likely cause could be the ground around the pipe has got enough water in it to seal a minute leak that previously was sucking a tiny amount of air. I mean pinhole size that, in a quick pressure test, may not show up.

 

[Texas Splash]

@DavidLast, appreciate the suggestions. I've had my suspicions about each of those as well. I will certainly keep them in mind and post back if I see any correlation.

 

[Texas Splash]

I'm still amazed how well the pot has remained primed ever since 23 Dec after I vacuumed. Packed tight full of water, you can hardly tell there is any water in there. I haven't burped the filter air relief once yet. In 10+ years and two different pumps it's never been like this.

 

[HermanTX]

I haven't burped the filter air relief once yet. In 10+ years and two different pumps it's never been like this.

A win is a win. Take it. Glad it is working properly.

I plan to replace the guts on 2 diverter valves in the spring. I have some bubbles, not near the issues you have had but feel there is a small suction air leak around the handle seals or the top.

 

[Texas Splash]

Well, I spoke to soon. Some air back under the lid, down by about an inch. Only thing different in the past 24 hrs is we got some rain (which is when things got better before) and it's been very windy today. Winds from the north pushing away from the skimmer, but the skimmer was full of leaves, so I'm wondering if it was starved for water. Weir door seems to be working fine. I purged the air and will monitor.

 

[wireform]

You can hang a milk crate upside down in front of the skimmer to stop the leaves from getting in so when the face of the crate is full of the foliage the water can still get to the skimmer from underneath, just for testing purpose obviously.