Why Will My Pool Pump Not Prime?

Quick answer: A pool pump that will not prime is usually pulling in air or has no water to pull. Check the water level, baskets, lid o-ring, and valves, then fill the basket and restart.

Common causes

• Low water level
• A full skimmer or pump basket
• A dry, cracked, or poorly seated lid o-ring
• Loose unions, drain plugs, or valves
• A clogged impeller

What to do

• Turn the pump off at the breaker before opening anything
• Raise the water level and empty the baskets
• Clean the lid o-ring and lubricate it with a silicone-based lubricant
• Make sure valves are open, fill the basket with water, close the lid, and restart

When to call a pro

Constant bubbles in the basket mean an air leak somewhere on the suction side, which a pro can trace.