How to Troubleshoot Your Pump and Filter
There are many common problems that can occur with pool equipment, which we will go over here.
Sudden decrease: filter pressure
This often results from a clogged suction line or clogged pump impeller, but in some instances, an improper valve setting could be to blame.
You can clear suction lines by forcing water back through the pump suction line (in the pump basket). Wrap a rag or towel around a hose and put it inside the pipe to get the debris out. You could also try a Drain King from the hardware store.
Think you have a clogged impeller? Turn the pump off, remove the pump basket and clear out any debris from the pump inlet. If you can’t easily get the debris out, you may have to dismantle the pump to remove the debris.
Sudden rise: filter pressure
An algae bloom could clog the filter. First, you’ll have to kill the algae or you will spend a lot of time cleaning the filter. Filter pressure spikes can also be caused by a broken check valve or improper valve setting.
Big reduction: flow rate
A high filter pressure means you have a dirty filter that needs cleaning. Low filter pressure means you have a suction side clog.
Filter pressure doesn’t decrease, even after cleaning the filter
If you have a DE filter, the DE could be caked on the grids. You will need to do a deep cleaning of the grids in this case.
If you have a cartridge filter, the problem could be due to calcification. You will have to clean the cartridge with TSP, followed by a good soak in a water/acid solution.
Debris gets past the filter
In a DE filter, a damaged grid could be to blame. Replace grids as needed. In a cartridge filter, a damaged cartridge is to blame. Replace cartridges as needed.
In a sand filter, channeling in the filter could be the cause. Try a longer backwash cleaning.
Air bubbles emerge from the returns, pump basket or filter
If the bubbles are tiny and you have a SWG, this is a normal part of the electrolysis process. But if you have larger bubbles that just won’t quit, the culprit could be a suction side air leak. Air leaks usually occur around the pump basket lid or pump drain plugs. Seal the gaskets with silicon pool lube so no leaks occur.
Pump leaks water
If the pump shaft seal or other pump gasket is leaking, replace the seals or buy a pump seal kit.
Pump cycles on and off
This is often the result of a bad motor bearing, which produces a high screeching or squealing sound. You will need to repair or replace the motor.
Need more troubleshooting advice? Give Central Jersey Pools a call today.