How to Prime a Pool Pump

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Turn the pool pump off.

   If you can, shut off the the power to the pump.
2. 2

   Step 2: Relieve air pressure.

   Turn the air relief valve on the top of the pool filter counterclockwise (anticlockwise).
   
   The gauge should read 0 psi.
   
   Leave this valve open. , Now water will only flow through the selected route, allowing you to prime the pump gradually. , Depending on your box, you may need to turn a knob counterclockwise (anticlockwise) or possibly do some unscrewing. , If you see anything, take the basket out of the strainer box, then empty, clean and replace it. ,, Check the lid of the strainer box and its seal.
   
   Note if there are any cracks or any other signs of damage.
   
   Apply petroleum jelly or a similar lubricant to the O-ring.
   
   Tighten lid.
   
   Do so by hand when possible to avoid over tightening. , This disengages the filtration system from the circuitry. ,, Air should begin to come out of the valve as the pump starts up again.
   
   If all goes well, water should start to spray.
   
   If water does not spray within a minute, repeat all steps up until this point. , Turn the knob clockwise to close. ,, Any problematic air from newly opened circuitry.
   
   If all goes well, water should start to spray out of the pump.
   
   If water does not spray within a minute, repeat all steps up until this point. , Turn the knob clockwise to close. ,,, Be sure to bleed air from the filter once water circulation to the filter has been reestablished.
3. 3

   Step 3: Change the settings of your suction diverter valve so that either the main drain valve or the skimmer valves are open.

4. 4

   Step 4: Open the lid of the pool pump strainer box.

5. 5

   Step 5: Check the basket in the strainer box for any debris or objects.

6. 6

   Step 6: Fill the strainer box with water completely.

7. 7

   Step 7: Replace the strainer box lid carefully and ensure a good seal.

8. 8

   Step 8: Ensure that the multiport valve—the valve controls water return to the pool—is fully open or on the "recirculate" setting.

9. 9

   Step 9: Turn the pool pump on.

10. 10

    Step 10: Keep an eye on the the air relief valve.

11. 11

    Step 11: Close the air valve when water starts to spray.

12. 12

    Step 12: Adjust the diverter valve so that the valve you originally closed is now open in addition to the already open valve.

13. 13

    Step 13: Open the air relief valve again.

14. 14

    Step 14: Close the air valve when water starts to spray.

15. 15

    Step 15: Turn the pump off again.

16. 16

    Step 16: Return the multiport valve to the filtration setting.

17. 17

    Step 17: Turn the pump on again.

Detailed Guide

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