How To Prime A Pool Pump (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Home » How To Prime A Pool Pump » How To Prime A Pool Pump (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Prime a Pool Pump PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Oz Tzalalihin

Last Updated: February 19, 2026 Fact Checked

PDF download Download Article
  • Turning off Power to the Pump
    • |
  • Priming the Pump by Pouring in Water
    • |
  • Troubleshooting Your Pump
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Oz Tzalalihin. Oz Tzalalihin is a Landscaping and Hardscaping Expert based in Calabasas, California. He runs Sundream Builders, where he manages quality control as their Project Coordinator. Sundream specializes in installing pools, and conducting hardscaping, landscaping & hillside design projects. Previously, Oz served as Project Manager for Vitoli Builders. He has a passion for working with sloped terrains and has shared his expertise through contributions to local publications. Oz holds a PMP (Project Management Professional) degree from Cornell University and specializes in building pools and structures on hillside properties. With his education and experience, he is a valuable asset and is dedicated to delivering quality results and smooth construction. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 379,843 times.

A properly functioning pool pump is critical to keeping the water in your swimming pool safe and clean. The pump is said to “lose prime” when too much air has entered the pipes for the pool. Priming a pool pump is the process of releasing any air trapped in the system to get the water properly circulating. That way, you can start splashing around in your clean pool in no time.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Turning off Power to the Pump

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Prime the pump at the beginning of each pool season. 1 Prime the pump at the beginning of each pool season. While the pool has been covered for the offseason, the water in the pump and lines may have evaporated or drained off. When you prime the pump, you add water to it and bleed off the air in the lines.[1]
    • Prime your pump anytime your pool sits for 1-2 months.
  2. Step 2 Turn the pump off. 2 Turn the pump off. The pump should have an off switch somewhere on it. Flip the switch to turn it off. If it doesn't, find the cord that goes to the wall. At the wall, there should be a circuit breaker switch that you can flip to turn off the electricity to the pump.[2]
    • That way, you're not working on an electrical item while current is flowing to it!
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Flip the breaker to the pool system. 3 Flip the breaker to the pool system. Find your breaker box and look for the breaker that's labeled for the pool area. Flip the breaker so that the current is off running to your pool.[3]
    • This extra precaution ensures you won't get electrocuted!
  4. Step 4 Take the lid off the pump. 4 Take the lid off the pump. The pump is covered with a lid to create a closed system. You will likely need to unscrew the cover to get to the pump. The cover must fit on tightly so that it doesn't allow air into the system when it's running.
    5. Advertisement
Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Priming the Pump by Pouring in Water

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Turn the multi-port valve to "recirculate." 1 Turn the multi-port valve to "recirculate." The multi-port valve should be on the pipes next to your pump. If you're not sure which one it is, look in your owner's manual for your particular pump. Turn it to the place marked "recirculate."[4]
    • This allows the water to flow just into your pump and not through your filter.
  2. Step 2 Relieve air pressure in your filter by turning the air valve. 2 Relieve air pressure in your filter by turning the air valve. Find the valve on top of the pool filter. It's a little round knob. Twist it counterclockwise (anticlockwise) to open up the valve. The gauge should read 0 psi when you're done.[5]
    • Leave this valve open.
  3. Step 3 Look for debris in the pump box basket. 3 Look for debris in the pump box basket. The pump basket should be just under the cover. If there's anything in it, pull it out of the pump and dump it out. Rinse out the basket with a hose if you need to.[6]
    • Put the basket back into the pump.
  4. Step 4 Pour water into the pump box and pipes. 4 Pour water into the pump box and pipes. Use a hose to fill the pump with water. You should see it fill up all the way to the top of the pump basket. Fill the area for at least 2 minutes so that you know the water has gotten down into the pipes.
    • If it drains off, add more water.
  5. Step 5 Put the lid of the pump back on. 5 Put the lid of the pump back on. Make sure the cover is on tightly before moving on to the next step. The suction could knock the cover off as you turn the pump back on if the lid is not on tight.
    • You need to screw the cover back into place.[7]
    • Now is a good time to check the lid and seal for cracks. If it's damaged, you'll need to replace it.
  6. Step 6 Turn the pump back on. 6 Turn the pump back on. You will need to flip any circuits you turned off back on, including the one at the wall for the pump. With the pump back together, you're in less danger from working with it around water.[8]
  7. Step 7 Watch the water pump and the air valve. 7 Watch the water pump and the air valve. You should see water running through the pump pretty quickly. The water pump may gurgle with air bubbles at first, but it should soon be running smoothly with just water.[9]
    • You can also watch the air valve. It should leak air then start spraying a little water if the pump is running correctly.
    • If you don't see these signs within a minute or so, turn the pump off again and repeat the steps from above.
  8. Step 8 Close the air valve and turn the multi-port valve back to "filter." 8 Close the air valve and turn the multi-port valve back to "filter." Once the pump is running smoothly, turn the air valve clockwise until it's tight. That will close the valve and the pump system. Also, turn the valve for the water from "recirculate" back to "filter."[10]
    • Now, the water should be running back through the filter.
    9. Advertisement
Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Troubleshooting Your Pump

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Add more water to the pump and skimmer pipes if it won't run. 1 Add more water to the pump and skimmer pipes if it won't run. Generally, if your pump is having a problem, it's because it can't get enough water through the pump. Turn the system off again and top off the pump with more water, then try again.[11]
    • Make sure to always turn the pump off before you take the lid off it to add water!
  2. Step 2 Check the pool water level to see there's enough water for the pump. 2 Check the pool water level to see there's enough water for the pump. If the pump doesn't have anything to pull water from, it can't run. If your pool level is low, try filling it up to normal levels before working on the pump again.[12]
  3. Step 3 Tighten all the valves to ensure a good enough seal for the pump to run. 3 Tighten all the valves to ensure a good enough seal for the pump to run. Turn the pump off. Tighten the air valve and the water valves. Tighten any fittings you can, as well. You may need to use a wrench to tighten parts of your pump.[13]
    • Turn it on again to see if it helped.
  4. Step 4 Wash and lubricate the lid to determine if that's why the pump isn't running. 4 Wash and lubricate the lid to determine if that's why the pump isn't running. One issue that can cause your pump problems is if you're not getting a tight enough seal with the pump lid. Turn off the pump and take the lid off. Scrub the lid and the threads with dish soap and water and rinse it off thoroughly. Dry the lid and rub a lubricant into the O-ring under the lid. You can use petroleum jelly for this purpose. Put the lid back on tightly.[14]
    • The purpose of this is to make the seal as tight as you can. Turn the pump on again and see if it works.
  5. Step 5 Look for leaks in the pipe going to the pump to see if that's the problem. 5 Look for leaks in the pipe going to the pump to see if that's the problem. Grab a can of shaving cream and add a layer all over the pipe that runs into the pump. Turn the pump on and watch the cream. If it flows into the pipe, you've got a leak.[15]
    • You'll likely need to replace the pipe or have someone else do it.
  6. Step 6 Call in expert help if you can't find the problem. 6 Call in expert help if you can't find the problem. It may be that the repair is something only a professional can find and fix. That's particularly true if it's a problem with the motor or the wiring. If you try to troubleshoot your pump but can't seem to fix it, call in a professional![16]
    7. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question My pump loses suction after being on for 2 hours. What can I do? Community Answer Community Answer It sounds like air may have gotten trapped. Try restarting everything by unplugging the pump and following the steps in this article again. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 4 Helpful 9
  • Question My filter doesn't have an air valve. How can I prime? JLuckenbill JLuckenbill Community Answer Check your owner's manual to figure out where you have an air valve. Otherwise, look online for your particular model. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 13 Helpful 8
  • Question What is the delta flow on a pool pump? JLuckenbill JLuckenbill Community Answer The delta flow relates to the temperature in the pool if you have a heated pool. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 1
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • Procedures for priming a swimming pool pump may vary slightly from one system to another. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific filtering system or contact your pool supply/maintenance provider for assistance. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 9
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Do not run a pool pump without water whenever possible. Doing so for significant periods of time can cause severe damage to the pool pump, the motor, or both. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 4
Advertisement

Things You'll Need

  • Petroleum jelly (or similar lubricant)
  • Water
  • Hose or bucket
  • Wrench, optional
  • Dish soap, optional

You Might Also Like

Prime a Water PumpHow toPrime a Water Pump Open a Swimming PoolHow toOpen a Swimming Pool Use a Submersible PumpHow toUse a Submersible Pump Hook Up a Pool VacuumHow toHook Up a Pool Vacuum Change the Sand in a Pool FilterHow to Replace the Sand in Your Pool Filter Increase Well Water PressureHow to Increase Well Water Pressure: A Complete Visual Guide Find a Leak in Your Swimming PoolHow toFind a Leak in Your Swimming Pool Fix a Washer That Won't DrainHow to Troubleshoot & Repair a Washer That Doesn’t Drain Charge a Pressure TankHow toCharge a Pressure Tank Start a Push Lawn MowerHow toStart a Push Lawn Mower Troubleshoot a Windshield Washer PumpHow toTroubleshoot a Windshield Washer Pump Vacuum Your Pool and Backwash the FilterHow toVacuum Your Pool and Backwash the Filter Unclog a Washing MachineHow toUnclog a Washing Machine Replace a Well PumpHow toReplace a Well Pump Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-prime-a-pool-pump-7373092
  2. ↑ https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-prime-a-pool-pump-7373092
  3. ↑ https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-prime-a-pool-pump-7373092
  4. ↑ https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-prime-a-pool-pump-7373092
  5. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
  6. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
  7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tf4zot9Md5Q&feature=youtu.be&t=41
  8. ↑ https://www.swimuniversity.com/prime-pool-pump/
  9. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
More References (7)
  1. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
  2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rok3I18bPPw&feature=youtu.be&t=66
  3. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
  4. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
  5. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
  6. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/
  7. ↑ https://poolcareguy.com/how-to-prime-pool-pump/

About This Article

Oz Tzalalihin Co-authored by: Oz Tzalalihin Pool Installation Expert This article was co-authored by Oz Tzalalihin. Oz Tzalalihin is a Landscaping and Hardscaping Expert based in Calabasas, California. He runs Sundream Builders, where he manages quality control as their Project Coordinator. Sundream specializes in installing pools, and conducting hardscaping, landscaping & hillside design projects. Previously, Oz served as Project Manager for Vitoli Builders. He has a passion for working with sloped terrains and has shared his expertise through contributions to local publications. Oz holds a PMP (Project Management Professional) degree from Cornell University and specializes in building pools and structures on hillside properties. With his education and experience, he is a valuable asset and is dedicated to delivering quality results and smooth construction. This article has been viewed 379,843 times. 20 votes - 78% Co-authors: 12 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 379,843 Categories: Swimming Pool Equipment Article SummaryX

To prime a pool pump, start by turning it off and flipping the breaker to your pool system so you don't get electrocuted. Then, turn the multi-port valve on the pipes next to your pump to "recirculate," and turn the air valve on top of the filter counterclockwise. Next, pour water into the pump box under the filter cover for about 2 minutes before placing the lid back on the pump. Finally, turn the pump back on, close the air valve, and turn the multi-port valve back to "filter." To learn how to troubleshoot a faulty pool pump, scroll down! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish Russian French Japanese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 379,843 times.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Oz Tzalalihin Co-authored by: Oz Tzalalihin Pool Installation Expert 20 votes - 78% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 12 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 379,843

Quizzes & Games

How Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizTake QuizDeserted Island Simulator: Test Your Survival SkillsDeserted Island Simulator: Test Your Survival SkillsPlayFinish the Phrase QuizFinish the Phrase QuizTake QuizWhat Chakra Do I Need to Balance QuizWhat Chakra Do I Need to Balance QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Prime a Water PumpHow toPrime a Water PumpOpen a Swimming PoolHow toOpen a Swimming PoolUse a Submersible PumpHow toUse a Submersible PumpHook Up a Pool VacuumHow toHook Up a Pool Vacuum

Featured Articles

Make a Paper AirplaneHow toMake a Paper AirplaneLearn Morse CodeHow toLearn Morse CodeFold an Origami Star (Shuriken)How toFold an Origami Star (Shuriken) Fold and Use a Paper Fortune TellerHow to Fold and Use a Paper Fortune Teller

Trending Articles

What Female Body Shape Are You? How to Identify YoursWhat Female Body Shape Are You? How to Identify YoursWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I QuizWhat Pokémon Am I QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouFinish the Lyrics QuizFinish the Lyrics Quiz

Featured Articles

What Animal Am I QuizWhat Animal Am I QuizAm I Gay QuizAm I Gay QuizHow Well Do I Know My Best Friend QuizHow Well Do I Know My Best Friend QuizAm I an Alpha, Beta, or Omega QuizAm I an Alpha, Beta, or Omega Quiz

Featured Articles

160+ Good Roasts to Burn Your Friends & Family Members160+ Good Roasts to Burn Your Friends & Family Members Play the Snaps Guessing GameHow to Play the Snaps Guessing Game140+ Wavelength Game Categories & Questions to Extend Your Play140+ Wavelength Game Categories & Questions to Extend Your PlayThe Ultimate Collection of Funny, Cheesy, & Romantic Rizz LinesThe Ultimate Collection of Funny, Cheesy, & Romantic Rizz LinesVirtual Truth or Dare Questions to Keep Things InterestingVirtual Truth or Dare Questions to Keep Things Interesting180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any Argument180 Good Comebacks & Savage Roasts to Win Any Argument

Watch Articles

Eat GuavaHow toEat Guava Get Yellow Stains Out of White ShoesHow to Get Yellow Stains Out of White ShoesLeft Eye Twitching for Females: What Astrology Says About Eye TwitchingLeft Eye Twitching for Females: What Astrology Says About Eye Twitching50 First Date Conversation Starters to Spark a Connection50 First Date Conversation Starters to Spark a Connection Make a Mask Out of Paper (for Kids or Adults)How to Make a Mask Out of Paper (for Kids or Adults) Put Jibbitz on CrocsHow to Put Jibbitz on Crocs

Trending Articles

Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes? Read Face Moles: Lucky and Unlucky PlacementsHow to Read Face Moles: Lucky and Unlucky PlacementsWhat JJK Character Am I QuizWhat JJK Character Am I QuizFade Hairstyle Types for Men: A Complete GuideFade Hairstyle Types for Men: A Complete GuideRecessed Maxilla (Upper Jawbone): Symptoms & TreatmentRecessed Maxilla (Upper Jawbone): Symptoms & TreatmentCan Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?

Quizzes & Games

What Makeup Should I Wear QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?What’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizGhost Hunting GameGhost Hunting GamePlay wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Home and Garden
  • Swimming Pools
  • Swimming Pool Equipment
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Let's do this! X --821

Tag » How To Prime A Pool Pump