Why is My Pool Pump Leaking?

Troubleshooting tips for your above ground pool pump

You've noticed water coming from your pool pump and maybe you're wondering, "Why is my pool pump leaking?" Never fear - Bestway is here to help you troubleshoot the issue!

While a leaking pool pump is one of the most common issues an above ground pool owner can face, you do want to fix the leak right away, as it can lead to wasted water (and high water bills!), increased maintenance costs and potential damage to the pump itself.

Understanding the common causes of leaks and how to troubleshoot them can save you time and money.

Here are the most common filter pump leaks to check for and how to fix them.

1. Connection Hose Leak

The first items to check are the connection hoses.

If the leak is coming from one of the connection hoses, follow these troubleshooting instructions:

1: Check to see if the hose clamp is correctly tightened.

2: Check to see if the black seal gasket on the hose is positioned correctly or is missing

If the gasket is missing, you can find a replacement here. 

If the gasket isn’t positioned correctly, follow these steps:

Step 1: Close the connection valves to avoid the water flowing out when you open the hose.

Step 2: Open the hose clamp.

Step 3: Detach the hose and position it back with the black gasket in the correct position.

Step 4: Close the hose clamp tight.

2. Purge Valve Leak

Next, you’ll want to check the purge valve.

If the leak is coming from the purge valve, check to see if the purge valve is correctly tightened. If it’s not correctly tightened, tighten as needed.

If the purge valve is correctly tightened, follow these steps:

Step 1: Close the connection valves to avoid water flowing out when you open the purge valve.

Step 2: Open the purge valve and check if the gasket is missing or damaged

If it’s missing or damaged, you can find a replacement using our Parts Finder.

3. Filter Cap Leak

After checking the purge valve, next you’ll want to check the filter cap.

If the leak is coming from the filter cap, follow these troubleshooting instructions:

1. Ensure that the dimensions of the filter cartridge match the size of the filter pump you purchased. If the filter cartridge is too big, the filter cap cannot be closed correctly.

2. Close the connection valve and open the filter cap. Check if the gasket is in the correct position or if it is damaged. If the gasket is not in the correct position, position it correctly and close the filter cap.

If you need a new filter cap, you can find a replacement using our Parts Finder.

4. Cover Retainer Leak

If you still haven't found the leak, you’ll want to check the cover retainer. The cover retainer ensures the filter tank stays securely closed and sealed during use.

If the leak is coming from the cover retainer, follow these troubleshooting instructions:

1. Check if the dimensions of the filter cartridge are suitable for the size of the filter pump that you purchased. If the filter cartridge is too big, the cover will not close correctly.

2. Close the connection valve and open the cover retainer and check if the gasket is in the correct position or if it is damaged. If the gasket is not in the correct position, position it correctly and close the cover retainer. If the gasket is damaged, you can get a replacement gasket using our helpful, handy Parts Finder tool!

SAND FILTER PUMPS

1. Control Valve Leak from Port D

If you have a sand filter pump, the first thing you want to check is the control valve.

Your control valve may not be set to the correct position and is instead set between two functions. Make sure you adjust the control valve to stop water from leaking, and when it’s not in use, put the D cap onto Port D.

2. Inlet Strainer Leak

Next, you'll want to check to ensure that the pool inlet strainer is installed correctly and in the correct position. Make sure that the gasket is installed between the pool inlet strainer and the pool liner. Then make sure the connection between the inlet strainer control valve and the hose is secured. If the hose is loose, tighten as needed.

3. Strainer Basket Leak

Lastly, if you still haven’t found the leak, open the strainer cover, remove the O-ring and clean it and the groove with a clean rag or cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

Next, apply a thin, even layer of silicone-based lubricant, that’s designed specifically for pool pumps and O-rings, to the outside of the O-ring and the groove where it will sit.

Then, carefully insert the lubricated O-ring back into its groove and reassemble the pump, making sure the cover is securely tightened by hand.

If the O-ring is damaged, it’s time for a replacement.

 
We’re Here to Help!

If you’ve tried all these troubleshooting tips and still haven’t found the source of the leak, don't hesitate to reach out to our Customer Support team for further assistance.

You can also browse our Parts Finder or the Pool Parts section of our website for any replacement parts you may need.