Fixing low/no flow water
Low water flow and no water flow are common issues pool owners face every year. Here are a few quick checks to identify and rectify the problem.
Flow problems can arise for various reasons and, if not fixed promptly, can damage your equipment such as cracked baskets, broken internals, motor burnout or leaking seals, which could be costly to repair!
1. Blocked Baskets
The most common cause of low or no water flow is your skimmer and/or pump baskets being full of debris. Check and empty both the skimmer basket (by the pool) and the pump basket (inside the pump) to free up water flow, allowing the system to fully ‘prime’ and function properly.
*Always turn the pump off before removing the baskets! If your pool pump is below water level, close any valves in front of the pump and set the multiport valve on the filter to ‘closed’ to avoid water spillage.
Inspect your baskets for cracks or broken pieces, as these can let leaves clog other areas of your system.
2. Low Water Level
During hot, windy weather or frequent swimming, your pool water level can drop below the skimmer box, reducing or even stopping water flow. The ideal water level for your pool is at least halfway up the skimmer box opening.
*When filling up the pool from a garden hose or water tank, have your water tested for phosphates after restoring the water level.
3. Check If Your Pump Is Primed
Look through the clear pump lid while the system is on. If it isn’t completely filled with water, turn it off and remove the pump lid (don’t lose the o’ring!). Empty the pump basket of any debris, replace it, then manually fill the pump with water using a bucket. Replace the pump lid with the o’ring and turn the pump back on. If water doesn’t start flowing after 15-20 seconds, turn the pump off.
If priming doesn’t work the first time, disconnect the suction cleaner, remove the vacuum plate, and clean the skimmer basket before trying to prime the pump again.
If you’re still having trouble, turn the pump off, rotate the multiport valve handle to “recirculate” and try priming again. If it still doesn’t work, shock the pool with chlorine and contact us for assistance.
A yearly check of your pool pump is essential to ensure your equipment is in good working order. Lubrication of o’rings on the pump lid and all barrel unions on the pump and filter, will keep them from leaking.
4. Clean Your Filter
A dirty filter can reduce water flow. Try backwashing and rinsing your media filter. If this doesn’t work, set your filter to recirculate. If you now have normal flow, try backwashing again. If it still doesn’t work, you may need a media change.
If you have a cartridge filter, remove it from the housing (ensure the pump is off and valves are closed if below water level), hose it clean or replace if necessary, and reassemble. Lubricate the o’rings and open any valves. Turn the pump on and bleed air from the top until water comes out.
For D.E filters, backwash and clean every few months. Ensure the pump is off and valves are closed. Clean, reassemble, open the valves, and bleed air to finish.
If you’re unsure or not confident, contact us, and we can do it for you. Call us or book online here.
5. Check the Pump Impeller
Avoid taking your pump apart, as this can void the warranty and cause further damage. Contact us to have a professional inspect your equipment.
The impeller is a spinning, hollow disc that draws in water and spins it out at high pressure. If your pump impeller is clogged, it won’t move as much water. This blockage is usually caused by a broken or split pump basket. Turn the pump off, remove the pump lid and basket, and clear any debris from the impeller.
If you’re still experiencing issues with water flow, the fastest way to find a solution is to visit us. Our shop staff are always ready to help troubleshoot. Don’t forget to bring a water sample with you, or call us to book a service or click below to request one online.
If you need help maintaining your pool’s water flow, contact us for a consultation and book a service today.