Steps to get pump primed?

[Itsmejson]

I am having an issue where my pump is not priming properly and there is a bunch of air bubbles coming out of the return jets. The pool pump filter basket is only half full. What are the steps to properly get the pump fully primed?

Could my water level be too low? Water level is on the bottom 1/4 of the skimmer plate.

 

[1poolman1]

I am having an issue where my pump is not priming properly and there is a bunch of air bubbles coming out of the return jets. The pool pump filter basket is only half full. What are the steps to properly get the pump fully primed?

Could my water level be too low? Water level is on the bottom 1/4 of the skimmer plate.

To prime the pump; Be sure the water level in the pool is at least halfway up the opening of the skimmer or you will pull air into the pump.
Open the lid.
Be sure the pump-lid O ring is properly lubed with pool lube, just enough to make it shiny.
Fill the pump up to the level of the inlet (if you have a large bucket, just pour it all in as it will run to the pool down that inlet pipe).
Replace the lid.
Turn on the pump.
As long as there are no issues with any of the equipment (like a very dirty filter) its that simple.

 

[Itsmejson]

Thank you. I added water today because I was on the lower quarter of the skimmer. Looks to be what was causing all the air in the system.

The skimmer sounded like a leaky toilet making hissing sound.

 

[1poolman1]

Thank you. I added water today because I was on the lower quarter of the skimmer. Looks to be what was causing all the air in the system.

The skimmer sounded like a leaky toilet making hissing sound.

I believe that skimmer face-plate has a small arrow on it, at the middle of each side, indicating proper water level. If not, the water should be at the middle of the opening. Its very-much too low in the picture.