AO Smith pool pump runs but there is little or no water flow; pump basket does not fill completely.

Safety First: Turn OFF power before opening the pump lid or valves.

• Check water level: Ensure pool water level is at least halfway up the skimmer opening so the skimmer does not draw air.
• Clean baskets: Empty skimmer and pump strainer baskets of leaves and debris. Reseat the pump basket properly.
• Inspect lid O-ring: Remove the pump lid, clean the O-ring and sealing surface, and apply a thin coat of pool-safe silicone lubricant. Replace a cracked or flattened O-ring.
• Tighten unions and fittings: On the suction side, hand-tighten unions and check for cracks in fittings that could draw air.
• Prime the pump: Fill the pump basket housing with water, reinstall the lid, open all valves, and start the pump. It should pull a solid column of water within a minute or two.