Expert: Lynn bellay Date: 7/22/2008 Subject: Brand new pump, not keeping pressure
Question QUESTION: Good evening,
My husband and I recently bought a house with an above ground pool. We were having trouble with the old pump not keeping pressure, so we purchased a new Hayward 1 1/2 hp. We have a Pentair SandDollar 60 filter. Even with the new pump, we aren't able to build enough pressure to keep the pool clean or to have the automatic pool cleaner work correctly. We really can't afford to call out a professional, so any suggestions would be great! Thank you!
ANSWER: Hello,You bought a pump and filter correct?What pressure reading are you getting on your gauge,is it steady?When did it work correctly last? I'd say the problem is in your filter.You are sure off adequate water supply,no blockages,or air leaking in the system.If you would answer these questions I would be able to give you a better answer.Lynn Also does it ever work correct?
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QUESTION: We bought a new pump and replaced the old cartridge filter with one that we were given, which is the SandDollar. We did replace certain parts on the sandfilter before installing it. When the pump and filter are working good, the psi is at 15. When I first turn the pump on, it works good for about 3-5 minutes, then it goes to 18psi. Since we've lived here, we have always had some problem or another with the pressure building, so for us, it hasn't worked correctly. I am not sure how to check for air leaking into the system. The hoses from the pump to the filter are brand new. I am sure of adequate water supply and blockages. Also, when the psi goes to 18, I try backwashing it, which doesn't help or change anything. Thanks!
ANSWER: One more question ,what is the flow at the output jet at 15 and at 18 pounds?Is it strong?Lynn
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QUESTION: At 15 psi, the flow is very strong. At 18 psi, it drops significantly and completely loses all water pressure. Hope this helps! Thanks again!
Answer Three pounds should not create that much water flow loss.If all is OK for 3 minutes,the question is what happens,if air was entering the system you would see it in the water supply,do you have a pump basket with a clear lid?When you lose pressure whats the water in the basket look like?You might try taking the filter out.When that pressure goes from 15 to 18 resriction was put in the system.Lynn
