Swimming Pool Pumps

Priming your swimming pool pump is essential for its effective operation. It should be part of your regular pool maintenance routine, especially at the start of the season or after any maintenance work that involves draining the pump or pipes. Following these steps will help ensure that your swimming pool pump operates efficiently and lasts for many years. For more detailed guidance and assistance, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at The Swimming Pool Store.

Step-by-step instructions on priming your pool pump:

Turn Off the Pump: Ensure the pump is off before starting the priming process to avoid potential damage.

Close the Drain Plugs: Close all drain plugs on the pump. If your pump has a priming port, open it and fill the pump with water.

Fill the Pump Basket: Remove the pump lid, then fill the pump basket with water. This helps create a suction force that draws water into the pump and the intake line.

Check and Release Air: Secure the pump lid back on tightly to ensure no air leaks. Some pumps have an air release valve that allows you to bleed out any trapped air in the system.

Open the Valves: Open the intake line valve to allow water to flow from the pool to the pump. Ensure that the return line is also open so that water can flow back into the pool.

Turn On the Pump: Turn on the pump and observe the water flow through the pump’s clear lid (if applicable). The pump should start pulling water through the system within a few minutes.

Check for Proper Flow:  Monitor the water flow and the pressure gauge. If the pump is not pulling water or air bubbles are visible, there may still be air trapped in the system. Repeat the air release step if necessary.

Monitor and Adjust: Once the pump is running smoothly and water is flowing steadily, check for leaks and ensure all connections are secure. Adjust the valves as needed for optimal operation.

Yes, you can run the pool pump while swimming. Running the pump helps circulate water and evenly distribute pool chemicals, keeping the pool clean and safe during use.

To replace a swimming pool pump motor, first turn off the electrical power to the pump. Disconnect the pump motor from the plumbing and electrical connections. Remove the old motor, replace it with the new one, and reconnect everything. Ensure all connections are tight and secure before turning the power back on. *Professional installation is recommended. 

The duration to run a swimming pool pump varies depending on the pool size and pump type. Generally, it is recommended to run the pump for about 8-12 hours per day to ensure the water is adequately filtered and chemicals are well distributed. 

The amount of electricity a swimming pool pump uses depends on the pump’s size and efficiency. On average, a residential pool pump uses between 500 and 2,000 watts of power. Opting for an energy-efficient, variable-speed pump can significantly reduce electricity use.

A swimming pool pump circulates water through the pool’s filtration system, keeping the water clean and free of debris. It helps distribute chemicals evenly, maintains water clarity, and prevents algae and bacterial growth by ensuring continuous water movement.

For above-ground pools, a 1.5 HP pump is typically sufficient. Larger pumps might seem like a better choice, but they can actually lead to increased energy consumption and higher operating costs without providing additional benefits.  For swimming pool pumps, higher horsepower means a higher electric bill.  Opting for the right-sized pump ensures efficient performance and cost-effective operation. 

In-ground pools usually require self-priming pumps because the pumps are positioned above the waterline. On the other hand, above-ground pools can use non-self-priming pumps that rely on gravity to draw water from the pool.

Pump flow rates vary by pool type. In-ground pool pumps typically handle 75-150 gallons per minute, while above-ground pool pumps handle 30-60 gallons per minute.