Pump is cavitating, with a loud, gravelly sound and lots of air in the pump basket.

Safety first: Turn off power before cleaning baskets or adjusting valves.

• Open valves fully: Ensure all suction valves are fully open to reduce restriction.
• Clean baskets: Empty skimmer and pump baskets of leaves and debris to improve flow.
• Reduce speed: On Hayward variable-speed pumps, lower the RPM to reduce suction intensity and cavitation.
• Check plumbing size: Verify that suction lines are appropriately sized for the pump’s flow. Excessive restriction may require plumbing modifications.