Air Leak In the Skimmer
by Vince
I had an air leak and the pool wasn't turning over. The only O-ring I knew to replace other than in the push/pull backwash valve was under the lid on the skimmer basket. That seems to have solved most of the problem, as the pump is no longer cavitating. However, as in the past, when the pump shuts off, water squirts out from under the lid of the skimmer where I replaced the O-ring. I can only assume that if water is forced out then air can be sucked in. What else can I do and any other suggestion as to where to look? Thanks in advance for any advice. Thanks for the question Vince Here are some posts that deal with this issue: AIR AND BLOW BACK..LOSS OF SUCTION.. Above Ground Swimming Pool Losing Water..Running Sand Filter System.. How Do I Fix Low Skimmer Suction? This is off another answered question: "If you have more than 1 skimmer, you can try this, but be very careful. Turn the system off. Slowly close the valve you normally vacuum with and leave the other valve open. What you're doing is closing off a valve and forcing the other one to do the job. Turn the system back on. If you don't lose suction or water in the pump pot, the other skimmer is fine. Do the same, only opposite. Open both valves, then close the one you DON'T vacuum with and leave the other one open. If you do lose suction or water flow, then the problem is the suction in the skimmer. If you vacuum from the skimmer, this might be the problem. Either a broken line or clog. Then it's time to call a repairman." Your check valve, if you have one, might be worn out. A check valve is used to keep water flowing in one direction. When it gets old or worn out it can allow water to flow the opposite direction. Being that water will find the path of least resistance, it can end up going back through the line to the skimmer. The posts above go into great detail on how to troubleshoot a suction side leak or loss of suction at the skimmer. They are general tips to look over. If after checking out the links and doing the steps, if you still have issues, please feel free to contact me again. You can find your post on the Q&A page under the "General Comments & Questions" category. Swimming Pool Questions and Answers Hope this helps and have a fun and safe Summer. Robert |
