Working a pool pump means priming it with water, opening all valves, and starting the motor so water flows through the filter and back to the pool.
For the full breakdown, see our best 1 HP Pool Pump guide.
Working a pool pump sounds more complicated than it is. The pump is a centrifugal unit with an electric motor and an impeller that draws water through the skimmer, pushes it through the filter for debris removal, and returns it through the jets. The whole routine comes down to four steps: prime, open, start, and check.
Before touching the pump, confirm the water level reaches at least halfway up the skimmer. Too low, and the skimmer pulls air instead of water, making the pump lose prime. Also confirm both the suction and discharge valves are open. Operating a pool pump with a closed valve can damage the pump housing.
Prime the Pump Before You Start It
Running the pump dry is the fastest way to ruin it. Always fill the strainer pot — the pump housing — with water before startup. Undo the lid, fill the pot to nearly full, replace the lid, and make sure it sits flush. A loose lid or a damaged O-ring lets air in and the pump loses prime.
With the pot full, start the motor and watch the pump.
Bleed the Air and Check the Filter
Once water flows, open the air-relief valve on the filter. Stand clear — air and water may discharge with force. Leave the valve open until a steady stream of water comes out, then close it. This purges trapped air that would otherwise reduce circulation.
Check the skimmer basket and the filter. A clogged basket or dirty filter media restricts flow and raises pressure. Clean the basket regularly and backwash the filter when the pressure gauge reads higher than normal.
Common Mistakes That Cause Pump Failure
- Starting without priming the strainer pot first.
- Running with the water level too low for the skimmer to pull.
- Leaving valves closed or partially closed during operation.
- Ignoring air leaks, loose lids, or worn O-rings.
- Skipping regular basket and filter media cleaning.
Each of these either makes the pump run dry or forces it to strain against restricted flow. Either way, the motor works harder and the pump loses efficiency.
Safety Checks Before You Turn It On
Plug the pump into a GFCI-protected outlet to prevent electrical hazards, especially outdoors. If the outlet trips, reset it and check for water intrusion before running the pump again. When you open the strainer pot lid or the filter’s air-relief valve, stand clear in case pressurized water escapes.
FAQs
How long does it take for a pool pump to prime?
A properly primed pool pump starts moving water within a couple of minutes. If the strainer pot was filled correctly and all valves are open, flow should appear quickly. If no water returns to the pool within ten minutes, stop the motor and check for air leaks or priming issues.
Why does my pool pump keep losing prime?
A pump loses prime when air enters the suction line. The usual causes are three: a loose strainer pot lid, a damaged O-ring, or a water level below the skimmer mouth. Inspect the lid seal and top off the water level before restarting.
Can I run a pool pump with the valves closed?
No. Operating with a closed suction or discharge valve creates excessive pressure and can damage the pump housing or motor. Always open both valves before startup and keep them open during operation.
References & Sources
- Pentair. “Pool Pump Information Guide.” Covers pump mechanics, priming, and operational best practices.