Sta-Rite Intermittent Air Ingestion / Suction Leak

Sta-Rite pool pump runs but water flow surges up and down; pressure gauge fluctuates.

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Possible Causes

Loose pump lid, Cracked suction fitting, Air being drawn through vacuum line, Low pool water level causing vortex at skimmer

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Turn off the pump before tightening or adjusting fittings.

  • Stabilize water level: Ensure pool water level is high enough to cover the skimmer opening fully.
  • Check skimmer weir: Make sure the skimmer weir door is not stuck partially closed, which can cause vortexing and air draw.
  • Seal pump lid and unions: Clean and lubricate the Sta-Rite pump lid O-ring, and tighten suction-side unions.
  • Isolate vacuum line: If a dedicated vacuum line is present, close its valve to see if surging stops. Leaks in vacuum hoses or fittings can introduce air.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Sta-Rite pump lid O-ring
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