Pool pumps flow in two ways: water can leak out or air might be sucked in. Air leaks disrupt the vacuum force of the pump and also cause inadequate flow and filter, bubbling return jets, and the capacity for air locks that interrupt water flow altogether. While water leaks are more commonly evident on the release side of the pool pump, air escapes that degrade vacuum are usually on the suction side of the cylinder. Most air escapes arise in above-ground plumbing, equipment or fittings.
Rule out the apparent reasons for poor vacuum first. Make sure the water level from the pool is sufficient and atmosphere isn’t being sucked in through skimmer inlets. Add water into the pool to submerge the skimmers if necessary. Confirm the pump strainer basket and the skimmers are free of debris that will prevent water stream.
Look into the crystal clear glass at the strainer lid while the pump is running. If you notice bubbles from the water flowing through the strainer, you most likely have a suction flow.
Switch off the pump and check the tightness of the strainer lid on the cylinder. If it is loose, remove the lid and inspect the integrity of the O-ring that seals the lid. This is the most common source of vacuum leaks. Replace the O-ring if it’s deteriorated. Lubricate the new O-ring with petroleum jelly before installing.
Inspect the removable joint that connects the suction line into the pump strainer chamber. Unscrew the combined and inspect the O-ring inside the joint. Replace the O-ring if it’s deteriorated. Lubricate the new O-ring with petroleum jelly before installing. Wrap the threads of the combined with pipe and reassemble the combined.
Identify possible air escapes inside valves and other fittings at the plumbing upstream from the pump by checking for water leaks as the pump is switched off. Air escapes frequently emit a little spurt of water right after the pump suction force water and stops pressure teeming through the plumbing.