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Check the Pump Lid & O-ring: The pump lid's O-ring can degrade over time or may not be seated correctly. Inspect it for cracks or wear, lubricate with a pool-safe lubricant if needed, and ensure the lid is tightly secured.
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Examine the Water Level: If the pool water level is too low, the skimmers can draw air instead of water. Ensure the water level is halfway up the skimmer entrance.
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Inspect Skimmer Baskets: Ensure they are clean and properly seated. A skewed basket can allow air to be sucked into the system.
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Check the Drain Plugs: On the pump, there are drain plugs. Make sure they're tight and not letting air in.
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Valves & Union Fittings: Inspect valves and union fittings before the pump for signs of wear or a poor seal. If there's a suction-side valve, make sure it's fully open.
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Use a Damp Cloth: With the pump on, run a damp cloth along the suction-side fittings. If there's an air leak, you'll likely notice a change in the sound of the pump as it briefly seals the leak.
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Listen for Hissing Sounds: Turn off the pump and listen closely to the suction-side connections for any hissing, which indicates air being sucked into the system.
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Check for Visible Water Leaks: When the pump is on, look for water squirting out under pressure, which can indicate where air gets sucked in when the pump is off.
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Pool Hose: If your pool uses flexible hoses, check them for cracks or holes, especially at connection points.
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Pump Basket: Inspect the pump basket for cracks. Even a small crack can let air into the system.
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Teflon Tape: When reconnecting threaded fittings, use Teflon tape to ensure an airtight seal.
If after all these steps, you're still facing issues or can't identify the air leak source, it might be best to call in a pool professional to ensure your system is functioning correctly.