DAB Loss of Prime / Air‑Locked Pump

Pump runs but there is no water flow, pump basket does not fill with water

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Possible Causes

Air leak on suction side fittings, Pump not properly primed, Blocked skimmer or suction line, Incorrectly installed check valve near pump

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power before opening the pump lid. Never run the pump dry for more than a few seconds.

Steps to check:

  • Prime the pump: Remove the lid, fill the DAB pump strainer housing completely with water, lubricate and reseat the lid O‑ring, then tighten the lid firmly.
  • Open all valves: Ensure suction and return valves are fully open. Verify that any 3‑way valves are correctly positioned.
  • Check for air leaks: While the pump is running, look for air bubbles under the lid and in the return jets. Tighten unions, replace cracked fittings, and renew perished O‑rings.
  • Clear suction lines: Clean skimmer baskets and vacuum lines. If a line is blocked, use a drain cleaning bladder or call a pool professional.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

DAB pump lid O‑ring
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