Harris Hydraulic Flow Restriction / Loss of Prime

Pump runs but there is no water flow or very weak flow at the pool returns

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Possible Causes

Clogged pump basket, Clogged skimmer baskets, Blocked impeller, Closed or partially closed suction/return valves

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off the pump at the breaker before opening the lid or valves.

  • Clean all baskets: Remove the Harris pump lid, take out the strainer basket, and clean thoroughly. Also empty all skimmer baskets and check the main drain for obstructions.
  • Verify valve positions: Ensure all necessary suction and return valves are fully open. Partially closed valves can severely reduce flow.
  • Check for air in pump: If the pump pot is not full of water, fill it completely, lubricate the lid o-ring with silicone grease, and reinstall the lid tightly.
  • Inspect impeller for clogging: If flow is still poor, remove the motor from the wet end and inspect the impeller vanes for debris such as leaves, hair, or plastic. Clean thoroughly and reassemble.

After reassembly, restart the pump and observe the flow at the returns. Persistent low flow may indicate plumbing restrictions or undersized piping.

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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Harris pump strainer basket
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