Pool Strainer Overflows..Lid Blows Off..
I purchased a home that happened to have an above ground pool. Since I know nothing, I had a pool company out last year to get it going. New pump installed and chemicals. This season, every time I get the water level above the skimmer, the strainer basket behind the pump fills, and whether the pump is on or not, the strainer top blows off (under huge pressure)and the water runs out. If I leave the top off the strainer, water will overflow until the water level is below the skimmer. No matter what, I cannot keep the top on the strainer due to pressure. Can you help? Thanks for the question It sounds like your pool has an air leak somewhere. The strainer basket lid would be the most common. Check the gasket around the lid and replace if it's worn or broken. The air in the chamber is compressible. When the pump shuts off, the air expands and forces water back through the plumbing. It could also be low water level or a sticking weir. You always want to keep the water level between 1/3 - 1/2 up the skimmer. A too low to too high water level and the skimmer can't do it's job. A common cause is the weir in front of the skimmer sticks. This creates a vortex in the skimmer which allows air into the suction side of the pump. You can open the air bleeder valve on top of the filter until water starts dribbling out. That will eliminate the air inside the filter. Many pools have an inline check valve on the suction side of the pump. This is to prevent backflow to the pool and keeps the system primed. If the valve is bad you could have reverse water flow back to the pump which would cause the filter basket to pop out and throw the lid off. Check all of the fittings, gaskets, and O-rings. You can also turn the system off. If you lose any water you're sure to have a leak somewhere. Hope this helps and let me know how this turns out for you Best of luck Robert |
