Remove Debris and Inspect Your Equipment

What You'll Need

• Skimmer net on a telescopic pole
• Trash bags or a bucket
• Garden hose
• Gloves
• Flashlight (for the equipment pad)

What To Do

1. 1Skim the surface. Work from one end to the other, emptying the net often so it doesn't tear.
2. 2Turn the pump OFF. Open each skimmer lid and empty the basket.
3. 3Open the pump strainer lid (the clear lid on the front of the pump) and empty that basket too. Check the lid O-ring is seated before closing.
4. 4Look at the equipment: cracked housings, leaks at fittings, burnt smell, or loose wires. If you see any of these, stop and call a pool technician.
5. 5Turn the pump ON. Within a minute or two the strainer basket should fill with water and air bubbles should stop.
6. 6Hold your hand near a return jet in the pool. You should feel a steady push of water.
7. 7Top off the water so it reaches the middle of the skimmer opening — too low and the pump sucks air.

Call a pro if you notice

• Pump hums but doesn't spin, trips the breaker, or smells burnt.
• Water leaking from the filter tank, pump body, or cracked pipes.
• Exposed, damaged, or wet electrical wiring — never touch it.
• Pump runs but no water reaches the return jets after priming.

What To Check

• Surface is mostly free of leaves
• Skimmer and pump baskets are empty
• Pump runs and strainer is full of water (no constant bubbles)
• Return jets push water steadily
• Water level is at mid-skimmer