How To Fix A Pool Pump That Is Not Fully Primed

Pcb How Fix Pump - Diy Pool Resources - Inyopools.com

March 24, 2021

< 1 Minute Read

In this Pool Care Basics Video, we discuss how to fix pool pump priming issues. A fully primed pump should be full of water. No air should be visible. A half-empty pump is a clear sign that something is wrong.

Note: There are cases where a variable speed pump, running on low speed, will not completely fill with water. That is ok as long as the water level in the pump does not continue to drop and run dry.

Common Causes of a Half-Empty Pump

Low Water Level
Weir Door
Skimmer Basket
Pump Gasket
Pump Lid O-ring/Gasket
Suction Side Leak
Clogged Impeller
Clogged Suction Line

Additional Resources

http://www.inyopools.com/blog/how-to-prime-a-pool-pump-2/

Rob McLintock Ecommerce Director

With over 17 years at InyoPools.com and more than two decades in the pool industry, Rob is a seasoned expert dedicated to helping pool owners succeed. As one of Inyo’s original content creators, he specializes in troubleshooting, sizing, and identifying pool equipment of all kinds.

See Full Bio

Troubleshooting Topics

Controls / Automation

Chlorinators

Skimmers / Drains

Need Replacement Parts?

Swimming Pool Products

Related Videos

4 responses to “How To Fix A Pool Pump That Is Not Fully Primed”

Sd

April 16, 2026

Hello,When my pump is off and I try to fill my pump basket all the way, it only will stay like 3/4 full, the water appears to be draining somewhere, but I’m not sure where. When the pump is on, I see bubbling in the pump basket. Any idea what the issue might be and if I can fix it myself?
Thank you!

Reply
1. INYOPools
  
  April 20, 2026
  
  First, I’d start by checking your pool’s water level. Is it at least a third or halfway up the skimmer’s faceplate? If the water level is too low, it’s taking a long time to fill the pump strainer because it’s having to fill the skimmer line first. Also, it’s OK to have a couple of bubbles in your strainer lid. Not every plumbing system is going to purge all of its air. especially if you have a dual or variable speed pump that’s running on a lower speed. There may be larger air bubbles because the flow rate isn’t high enough to fill the strainer pod
  
  Reply
jose urdaz

March 31, 2021

hi . i just bougth a kit PR-kit46 for my above ground pool pump and i like to know is there is a video to show me how to replace the parts on my pump. will you please send me the lik on how to replace then parts. thanks again and have a grat day

Reply
1. Matthew Simmons
  
  March 31, 2021
  
  That kit number does not appear in our database. What is the make and model or model number of your pump?
  
  Reply