How to Prime a Pool Pump?

Priming a pool pump is an essential step to ensure proper water flow, preventing damage to the pump. A pool pump needs to be filled with water to operate, as it uses water to cool itself. If the pump is not fully primed or is run without water, it could lead to motor burnout or melted pump housing, resulting in costly repairs.

You will need to prime your pool pump whenever it is emptied, such as at the beginning of the pool season, after repairs, or anytime air enters the system. Here’s a simple guide to priming your Yousky® pool pump.

What Is a Pool Pump?

A pool pump circulates water from the pool to the filter, which cleans the water and then returns it to the pool. It’s crucial that the pump operates with a continuous flow of water, as any air entering the system can reduce efficiency or even damage the pump.

Step 1: Assess the Water Level

The ease of priming depends on the pump’s location relative to the pool’s water level.

• Pump Below Water Level: If the pool pump is below the water level, gravity will help the water flow into the pump with minimal effort.
• Pump Above Water Level: If the pump is above the water level, priming is more challenging. The pump will struggle to “suck” water in from the air, so you will need to manually introduce water to get the process started.

Tip: If your pump is above the water level, introduce water into the pump housing to fill the air gaps, allowing the pump to pull water into the system.

Step 2: Gather Tools and Materials

Tools/Equipment Needed:

• Bucket
• Hose (if necessary)
• Towel or rag (for cleaning)

Materials:

• Water (preferably from the pool, but a hose will work as well)

Step 3: Fill the Pump Housing

1. Turn off Power: Before starting any work, turn off the pool pump and ensure the system is disconnected from power.
2. Fill the Pump Housing: Open the pump lid and use a bucket or hose to fill the pump housing with water. If your pump setup has a valve before the pump, close this valve to prevent the water from flowing back into the pool.

Tip: If your pump setup doesn’t have a valve before the pump, quickly close the lid after adding water to prevent it from spilling back into the pool. This will raise the water level inside the pump housing, making it easier for the pump to draw water in.

Step 4: Set the Multi-Port Valve and Open All Valves

1. Set the Multi-Port Valve: Set the multi-port valve to “Filter” mode to ensure proper filtration.
2. Check Other Valves: Ensure all valves leading to and from the pump are open to allow water to flow freely.

Step 5: Turn on the Pump and Observe

1. Turn on the Pump: Power up the pool pump and observe the water level inside the pump housing.
2. Look for Water Flow: You should start seeing water being sucked into the pump housing, especially through the clear lid. The initial water may be sucked out quickly—this is normal, as the pump is pulling water from the intake side.

Tip: If your pump is located above the water level, slightly crack open the valve to limit the amount of air the pump pulls in at once, allowing the pump to prime more efficiently.

Step 6: Watch for the “Double Cyclone” Effect

As water starts flowing into the pump housing, watch for a “double cyclone” in the clear lid. This indicates the pump is fully primed, and the return side should show no air bubbles.

Step 7: Repeat the Process if Necessary

If, after 10 seconds, you don’t see water entering the pump, or if the water is still being sucked into the pump housing very slowly, turn off the pump, close all valves, and refill the pump housing with water. Repeat the priming steps until you see water entering the pump housing.

Important: Never let the pump run dry, as this can cause damage. If the pump continues to fail to prime after multiple attempts, it may be time to call a professional.

Yousky® Pool Pump Customization

Yousky® offers a variety of pool pumps, including customized solutions for different pool needs. Our pool pumps are designed with advanced technology and high-quality materials to ensure strong water flow and energy efficiency. For customers needing personalized specifications, we provide OEM and ODM services to help you design the perfect pump for your pool.

Advantages of Yousky® Pool Pump Customization:

• Efficiency and Energy Savings: Yousky® pool pumps are designed to meet environmental standards, utilizing high-efficiency motors and optimized water flow to help reduce energy consumption.
• Adaptability: Whether your pump is located above or below water level, Yousky® pool pumps are designed to operate effectively, ensuring consistent water flow.
• Durability and Reliability: Our pumps are made with durable materials and high resistance to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting, reliable performance in various conditions.
• Flexible Customization: We can customize the specifications, appearance, and features of Yousky® pool pumps to meet the specific requirements of your pool system.

When to Call a Professional

If your pool pump won’t prime, or if it loses its prime repeatedly, there is likely an air leak somewhere in the system. It’s advisable to contact a professional to trace and repair the leak. Yousky® provides round-the-clock technical support to help you resolve issues and ensure your pool system runs smoothly.