water escaping when pump is off so pool will not prime on restart - determine source?

[johny3]

hi all
I figured I have to have a leak somewhere either in the basket, the filter container, or somewhere in that area. I got a new o ring for the pump basket last year. I was curious if there are any good step by step trouble shooting that anyone can link me to, please. Basically I have to reprime every time (this year it seems I ahve to fill up at the basket while having a plug in the primary water return (where I normally hook up the vacuum) or it will not prime. When installed they put the heater/pump/salt generator uphill which may be to blame. anyway, thank you!

 

[bjohannes]

I struggle with this as well, and my pad sits about 6ft above the pool. When the pump is off, gravity wants to pull all of the water back down to pool level, and will succeed if there are any leaks whatsoever. Listen for suction noises when you turn the pump off.

 

[TeanyV]

Hello Johny,

Welcome! I think having a few photos would help. Can you post photos of the equipment pad and one showing how much higher your pump is from your pool? I'm not the person to talk to about equipment, but having pics and all the info will help people with more experience give you solid advice.

My equipment pad is also a bit higher than ideal. My pump only lost prime once, but that was enough to make me quit using the timer. Now, I turn off the pool at night and manually close all the valves, which really seems to help. After I open them in the morning and turn the pump on, it typically only takes about 15 seconds or so to get going. I'm planning to switch to a variable-speed pump and running it at a lower speed 24/7, but it's not in the budget right now.

You can also fill out your signature so people can see what kind of equipment you have: Create Your Signature - Further Reading

~Teany

 

[Jimrahbe]

Johny,

The first place I would look it the filter air release valve. I have seen them let air in when the pump is off and not letting water out when the pump is running.

Do you have any wet spot around the equipment pad anywhere? If water is getting out when the pump is running, then it will let air in when the pump is off.

And, as mentioned above, you can often hear the air as it enters the plumbing.

Thanks,

Jim R.