Why is my pool running low pressure?
The problem of low pressure is usually a clogged pump basket (the basket connected to the pool pump) or skimmer baskets full of leaves. Clogged baskets restrict the flow of water into the filter, which causes low pressure. A clogged impeller (blade inside the pump) can also cause low pressure. This should not happen if your pump basket is kept free of debris and in good condition. If you have a suction type cleaner and have this problem often try adding an in-line leaf catcher between your first and second hoses from the wall. There might even be a need for a PRESSURE TYPE cleaner if you have an over abundance of leaves..
Can I put a larger pump on my pool equipment to move more water?
Pumps should be sized to the pool plumbing, filter and size of pool. Newer pumps are much more efficient than older pumps (old brass type pumps) that were installed just 8-10 years ago. Because of the more efficient pumps, plumbing is usually too small in size to let a larger horsepower pump prime up and operate at its full potential. In most cases it actually moves less water than the older, smaller horsepower pumps. If the plumbing and number of jets will allow the use of a larger horsepower pump, you need to make sure that the filter is large enough to handle the extra force/pressure that the pump will create. also you do not want to have so much flow in a pool that it becomes unsafe. The ideal solution to this question is to add a variable speed pump to your pool. What that means in a newer money saving effecient Magnet Drive pump.
Are heating appliances compatible with salt water chlorination?
For the last 20 years, Pool builders have been using a patented technology associating polyamides and titanium, both of which are totally free from the effects of corrosion. Today over 120,000 appliances have been installed without any corrosion defects. If a salt water chlorination method is being used, it may be important to install a check valve between the the heater outlet and the salt water chlorinator.
Must my pool be covered (cover, rolling shutter...) or sheltered if it is to be heated?
No, it is perfectly possible to heat an “open air” pool without a cover or a shelter. The power and fuel requirements is similar to heating a house with the windows open! This is why we recommend the use of an insulating cover to limit heat loss to the open air when the pool is being heated. A covered or sheltered pool will reduce the heater power and fuel costs.
Air leaks are still present.
1 Check the suction side piping union. While the pump is running, try to tighten the union. If this does not stop the air leak, turn off the pump. Loosen both unions and slide the pump out of the way. Remove, clean and re-install both union o-rings.
2. Reposition the pump next to the piping and secure the union nuts to the pump. With clean union o-rings, hand tightening of the unions should create a seal. If the unions still do not seal, gently tighten with a large pair of tongue and groove pliers. DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN.
3. Call Osceola Aquatics… we can help!
Bubbles present in the pump basket.
1. Air in system. Check the pool or spa water level to ensure it is at the proper level and that air is not being drawn into the suction plumbing.
2. If the water is at normal level, turn off the pump. Remove the lid and check for debris around the lid o-ring seat, as this will cause air leaks in the system.
3. Clean the lid o-ring and put the lid back in place.
4. Hand tighten the lid to make an air tight seal.
5. Do not use any tools to tighten the lid. Turn the pump back on.
6. Call Osceola Aquatics… we can help!
The cleaning/circulating system is not operating correctly.
1. Verify that the skimmer baskets, pump basket and other screens are clean. Clean as necessary.
2. Check filter and clean as necessary.
3. Check valve positions. Adjust as necessary. Note: Multiple pieces of equipment operating at one time (for example, waterfalls, spa jets, and surface returns) will affect the cleaning system and may prevent it from working properly.
4. Check the cleaning system manual to ensure that the system is adjusted according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
5. Call Osceola Aquatics… we can help!
The pump gets hot and shuts off periodically.
1. Ensure that there is adequate room around the motor to circulate air and keep the motor cool. If we built your pool, there will be.
2. Have a qualified electrician check for loose connections and check the voltage at the pump motor while it is in operation. The voltage must be within 10% of the motors data plate rating. If the voltage is not within 10%, contact a qualified electrician and/or the local power service provider.
3. Call Osceola Aquatics… we can help!
My pool has Low water flow.
1. Check pump basket for debris.
2. Check for air leaks on suction side.
3. Check for restrictions or blockage in either suction or return lines.
4. Filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.
5. Pool water level too low.
6. Pump not primed.
7. Pump impeller vanes blocked.
8. Strainer baskets not being used and/or not being cleaned regularly.
9.Pump operating under speed (low voltage) or at low speed.