Pool maintenance is one of the most important parts of keeping your swimming pool running. Whether you are into swimming pool DIY, or get a professional company in to help you out, it is always good to understand the basics and know what needs to be done.

So you heard a guy in the pool shop talking about priming a pool pump. What does this mean, why does it need to be done, and how would you go about doing it?

Why Prime a Pool Pump?

Most of the equipment involved in your pool is designed to be a little or completely wet. It’s a perk of the job. However, when it comes to the pump, it is a job requirement.

Pool pumps should only function with water inside them – if it’s not full of water, there will be damage. And since the pump is the heart of the pool, the whole pool will grind to a standstill.

Knowing how to check if your pump needs to be primed, and how to do it will avoid costly repairs. And luckily it is a simple process.

How to Prime a Pool Pump?

Priming a pool pump is a simple enough process, but it is vital for the smooth running of your pool. You must know how to do it, so here are the four simple priming points:

1. Turn the multiport valve to recirculate. This directs the water into the filter head, and back to the pool.
2. Remove the pool plugs. Water needs to be able to flow into the pump so you will need to take out any plugs you have in the skimmer or return jets before you turn anything on.
3. Fill the pump with water. Take off the lid and check the pump. If it is dry, add water before you turn it on. Make sure the drain plugs are in and use the garden hose-allow water to run into the pump for a couple of minutes. This should allow enough to create a suction.
4. Turn the pump on. Put the lid back and flick the switch. You should see the water filling up in the house (don’t panic if it gurgles or splutters initially or takes a bit of time).

Once the housing has filled with water, the pump is considered primed and you are good to go.

Pool Know-how

Knowing the ins and outs of priming a pool pump can save you from costly damage down the line. Plus it will help keep your pool sparkling clean, so win-win.

If you have any questions about pump-priming or pool maintenance, contact Poolspa today.