Low flow is an issue with the circulation system that requires attention. Circulation and filtration are the most essential parts of maintaining clear and safe water. There are many possible causes of low flow.

Let’s first consider possible problems with the pump. A pump will not function properly if it is not fully primed. This means that the strainer area should be completely filled with water. First check that the fitting which is threaded inot the front of the pump is tightly installed with Teflon tape or pipe dope. Also ensure that all other fittings which are attached to that fitting are also completely intact. Make sure that the lid o-ring or gasket has not be compromised, crushed, pinched, or cut as all of these issue would prevent the pump from priming.  The other possibility is a clogged impeller. The impeller is attached to the shaft of the motor and forces water to flow. If any debris passes by the strainer basket, it can clog the impeller and prevent it from pumping water properly. This is a common problem in areas where pebbles, grass, twigs, pine needles etc. are introduced to the pool. Depending on the make and model of pump, it may need to be disassembled to access the impeller. The final possibly in an issue with the electric motor portion of the pump. Beechmount Pools services all makes and models of electric pool and spa pumps. We have facilities to test and repair pool and spa motors at the store.

Now consider the possibility of an obstruction elsewhere in the circulation system. This could be as simple as debris in the skimmer basket, the pump strainer basket or a dirty or clogged filter. All baskets should be checked and emptied on a regular basis. Sand filters should be backwashed regularly. The filter will have a resting pressure (the reading on the pressure gauge immediately after backwashing). When the pressure rises by 5-10 psi from the resting pressure, the filter is full and needs to be backwashed for 3-5 minutes and rinsed for 30-45 seconds. Cartridge filters need to be rinsed with a hose on a regular basis. Sand filters should be chemically cleaned once a season, cartridge filters at least twice. Another possibility is an unexpected obstruction in pipes, most likely in the suction side of the system. This sort of debris is often introduced while vacuuming or through an automatic cleaner. A hand vacuum or suction side automatic cleaner should be used with an inline leaf trap to prevent this from happening. Beechmount Pools uses high-pressure air to force obstructions out of underground lines. If these two problems have been eliminated and flow is still not sufficient, it can be increased by operating the pool with all suction and return lines open, changing return fittings, or in extreme cases replumbing or replacing equipment.