Air leaks are a common problem with the potential to cause serious damage to your pool equipment. If you notice bubbles coming out of your pool pump, such as an unusual splashing or frothing around your pump basket, your pool probably has an air leak. Air leaks occur in pools with above pool level pumping, on the suction side of the pump system, which is the part of the system between the skimmer and the pump impeller. If air enters this system, it can interfere with the system’s ability to draw in pool water, causing overheating and even melting of important components.

It’s therefore important to fix air leaks as quickly as possible, however, they can be challenging to locate. Although finding the leak (or leaks) can be a slow, tedious process, the problem is typically easy to fix once located. Try turning the pump off and notice if your pump or plumbing “spits” a small amount of water from somewhere. Back-pressure forces water out of the system, often indicating the location of the leak. Here are some of the most common areas where air leaks can develop:

Pump

With the pump turned off, take off the lid and examine the o-ring. The o-ring keeps the pump lid tightly closed, but it can become dry, flattened or cracked over time, allowing air to enter the pump system. You may need to replace the o-ring or simply lubricate it to create a stronger seal. You can also check the pump basket and lid, either of which may be cracked and require replacement. If you feel uncertain that the pump is the source of the air leak, try pouring water over the lid with the pool pump running. If this reduces the air in the pump basket, it will confirm the pump as the problem.

Pool Skimmer

Examine your pool skimmer for any visible issues. Air can be pulled in through the skimmer if the pool’s water level is too low, so make sure the water level reaches up to about the middle of the skimmer’s opening. Check the weir, or skimmer flap, to ensure it’s moving freely because it can sometimes become clogged by leaves or other debris.

Union

Inground pools often include unions in their plumping, which are semi-permanent connectors designed to allow easy disconnection of pipes for maintenance. Any unions in your pump system also have o-rings that you should check for damage. You should also make sure the o-ring is correctly positioned in the union.

Drain Plugs

Pumps typically have two drain plugs, which are found near the bottom of the pump basket and on the motor side of the pump. Inspect the plugs to see if they are leaking or loose. Remove the plugs’ o-rings and ensure they are not cracked or warped. Like the system’s other o-rings, these may need to be replaced if they are no longer creating a strong seal.

Still stumped about the cause of your pool’s air leak?  Stop by one of our locations across Ontario to speak to one of our pool experts or send us a message !