Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: Priming a conventional pump
• Method 2 of 2: Filling an Unusual Pump (No 3 Way Control Valve)
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

A properly functioning pump is the key to a clean and safe pool. Sometimes, for one reason or another, too much air gets into the pool pumping system. Pump priming is the process of removing air trapped in the pumping system in order to improve water circulation. In this guide, you will learn how to prime the pump.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Priming a conventional pump

1. 1 Switch off the pump. If you can, disconnect power to the pump.
2. 2 Relieve air pressure. Turn the air relief valve counterclockwise. The pressure gauge should show 0 atm. Leave this valve open.
3. 3 Move the control valve so that both the main drain valve and the collector valves are open. The water will now only follow one path, allowing you to prime the pump gradually.
4. 4 Open the pump filter cover. Depending on the device, you will need to turn the knob counterclockwise or remove some bolts.
5. 5 Check the filter bin for debris. If there is debris, remove the trash can and empty it.
6. 6 Fill the filter box completely.
7. 7 Replace the filter cover carefully. Make sure it fits snugly.
   • Check the filter cover and its tightness. Examine it for cracks or other signs of damage.
   • Lubricate the O-ring with petroleum jelly or a similar lubricant.
   • Tighten the cover. Do this with your hands, avoiding excessive force.
8. 8 Make sure the multi-port valve (the valve that controls the return of water to the pool) is fully open or in the recirculating position. This will disconnect the filtration system from the flow.
9. 9 Turn on the pool pump.
10. 10 Watch the air relief valve.
    • After starting the pump, air should begin to escape from it. If all goes well, water will soon begin to spray out of it.
    • If water does not start splashing after a minute, repeat all steps up to this stage.
11. 11 Close the air valve when water starts to spray out. Turn the knob clockwise to close it.
12. 12 Move the control valve that you closed earlier to a position complementary to the open valve.
13. 13 Open the air relief valve again. Air will begin to escape from the parts of the system just connected. If all is well, water will soon begin to spray out of the valve.
    • If water does not splash after a minute, repeat all steps up to this stage.
14. 14 Close the air valve when water starts to spray out. Turn the valve clockwise to close it.
15. 15 Switch off the pump again.
16. 16 Return the multi-port valve to the filtration position.
17. 17 Switch on the pump again.
    • Bleed air from the filter after the filter has been returned to the system.

Method 2 of 2: Filling an Unusual Pump (No 3 Way Control Valve)

1. 1 Switch off the pump. If you can, disconnect power to the pump.
2. 2 Relieve air pressure. Turn the air relief valve counterclockwise. The pressure gauge should show 0 atm. Leave this valve open.
3. 3 Close all suction valves. One should be for the main drain and one or more for collectors.
4. 4 Open the pump filter cover. Depending on the device, you will need to turn the knob counterclockwise or remove some bolts.
5. 5 Check the filter bin for debris. If there is debris, remove the trash can and empty it.
6. 6 Fill the filter box completely.
7. 7 Replace the filter cover carefully. Make sure it fits snugly.
   • Check the filter cover and its tightness. Examine it for cracks or other signs of damage.
   • Lubricate the O-ring with petroleum jelly or a similar lubricant.
   • Tighten the cover. Do this with your hands, avoiding excessive force.
8. 8 Make sure the multi-port valve (the valve that controls the return of water to the pool) is fully open or in the recirculating position. This will disconnect the filtration system from the flow.
9. 9 Turn on the pool pump.
10. 10 Watch the air relief valve.
    • After starting the pump, air should begin to escape from it. If all goes well, water will start to spray from the pump soon.
    • If water does not splash after a minute, repeat all steps up to this stage.
11. 11 Close the air valve when water starts to spray out. Turn the knob clockwise to close it.
12. 12 Open one of the suction valves. Some manufacturers recommend opening the main drain valve first.
13. 13 Open the air relief valve again. Air will begin to escape from the parts of the system just connected. If all is well, water will soon begin to spray out of the valve.
    • If water does not splash after a minute, repeat all steps up to this stage.
14. 14 Close the air valve when water starts to spray out. Turn the knob clockwise.
15. 15 Repeat the process with one suction and vent valve open until all suction valves are open. If water does not start to spray from at least one of the valves, repeat all steps up to this stage.
16. 16 Switch off the pump again.
17. 17 Return the multi-port valve to its original filtration state.
18. 18 Switch on the pump again.
    • Bleed air from the filter after the filter has been returned to the system.

Tips

• The priming process for the pump may differ from system to system. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or contact your pool repair service.
• If, after several attempts, you still have not been able to remove air from the pumping system, there may be a serious leak or blockage somewhere. This problem must be resolved before priming the pump.

Warnings

• If possible, do not run the pump without water. Running the pump without water for an extended period of time can cause serious damage to the pump or its motor.

What do you need

• Technical Vaseline (or similar lubricant)
• Screwdriver (possibly)
• About 40 liters of water