How to Make Hayward Pool Pump Suction: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have a Hayward pool pump, you may encounter issues with the suction side of the pump. A lack of suction can cause your pool to become dirty and unusable, which is why it is essential to know how to fix this issue.

In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to make Hayward pool pump suction with ease. By following these steps, you can have your pool pump working correctly and your pool ready for swimming.

Before you get started, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to understand how your pool pump works and what components make up the suction side of the pump. Second, you need to have the necessary tools on hand to complete the job. Finally, you need to know how to prime your pump and test the suction once you have completed the repairs.

If you are ready to learn how to make your Hayward pool pump suction, continue reading to discover our step-by-step guide.

Understand Your Pool Pump

Before you start working on your Hayward pool pump suction, you need to understand how your pool pump works. The pool pump is the heart of your pool’s circulation system. It pumps water from your pool and sends it through your filter for cleaning. The cleaned water is then sent back into your pool, keeping it crystal clear. Understanding the inner workings of your pool pump will help you diagnose any issues you might encounter during the suction process.

One critical component of the pool pump is the impeller. The impeller is a small, rotating blade that is responsible for creating the suction that pulls water through the pump and into the filter. If the impeller is damaged or clogged, it can negatively affect the suction performance of your pool pump. Another important part of the pool pump is the strainer basket. The strainer basket collects debris and prevents it from entering the impeller, which could cause blockages and decrease the suction power.

Lastly, it’s essential to know the difference between the suction and return sides of your pool pump. The suction side is the intake side of the pump where water enters the pump from the pool. The return side is the outlet side of the pump where water leaves the pump and returns to the pool. Knowing which side is which is crucial when performing maintenance on your pool pump.

By understanding these important components of your Hayward pool pump, you’ll be better equipped to troubleshoot any suction issues that may arise. So let’s dive in and gather the necessary tools for the job.

Learn the Basic Components of a Hayward Pool Pump

Before learning how to make Hayward pool pump suction, it’s essential to understand the basic components of your pool pump. Knowing the parts of your pump can help you identify where problems are occurring and how to fix them. Here are the essential components of a Hayward pool pump:

• Motor: The motor is responsible for powering the pump and circulating water through the pool’s filter.
• Impeller: The impeller is a fan-like component that spins rapidly to create suction, which pulls water through the pump and into the filter.
• Strainer Basket: The strainer basket catches debris that passes through the pump and prevents it from clogging the impeller or damaging the motor.
• Diffuser: The diffuser is a cone-shaped component that sits over the impeller and helps direct water flow through the pump.

Each of these components plays a crucial role in ensuring that your pool pump is functioning correctly. By understanding how they work together, you can diagnose issues more easily and make necessary repairs.

Gather the Necessary Tools

Before beginning the process of making the Hayward pool pump suction, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools. This ensures that you don’t have to stop midway and hunt for something. Here are the tools you will need:

Screwdriver: You’ll need a screwdriver to loosen the screws and remove the pump lid.

Water Hose: A water hose is necessary to prime the pump and test the suction after cleaning the basket.

Pool Skimmer Net: A skimmer net will help you remove any debris or leaves that may have entered the basket.

Gasket Sealant: This sealant will help create a tight seal when you put the pump lid back in place.

Cleaning Solution: A cleaning solution or soap will be needed to clean the basket and other components of the pump.

Ensure You Have the Right Tools for the Job

Before starting the process of making your Hayward pool pump suction, you need to ensure that you have the right tools for the job. The following tools are essential for the process:

• Wrenches: To remove the bolts and nuts holding the pump lid in place.
• Pool Skimmer: To remove debris from the pool before the pump begins to work.
• Pool Pump Lubricant: To prevent the pump lid and o-rings from sticking and to make reassembly easier.
• Bucket: To fill the pump with water for priming.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from any sharp edges or debris.

Having the right tools ensures that you can complete the task efficiently and effectively. Without them, you may encounter difficulties that can lead to damage to your pool pump or injury.

Once you have gathered all the tools, double-check that you have everything you need before starting the process. This helps to avoid the need to interrupt the process midway to fetch a missing tool.

Identify the Suction Side of the Pump

The suction side of your Hayward pool pump is the side of the pump where the water enters. This is typically where the pool skimmer is connected to the pump.

Before beginning any work on the pump, ensure that the pump is turned off and unplugged to avoid any potential accidents or injuries.

Locate the suction and discharge ports on the pump. The suction port is typically larger in diameter than the discharge port, and it is also located closer to the center of the pump.

Identify the directional flow arrow on the pump housing. This arrow indicates the direction that water flows through the pump. The suction side should be located before the flow arrow, while the discharge side should be located after the flow arrow.

Locate the Inlet and Outlet Valves on the Pump

Before you can identify the suction side of your Hayward pool pump, you need to know where the inlet and outlet valves are located. The inlet valve is typically on the bottom of the pump, while the outlet valve is on the top. They may be labeled with arrows indicating the flow direction.

It’s important to note that the inlet and outlet valves may be located in different places depending on the model of your Hayward pool pump. Be sure to consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Once you have located the inlet and outlet valves, you can move on to identifying the suction side of the pump.

Identify the Direction of Water Flow

One crucial step in identifying the suction side of the pool pump is determining the direction of water flow in your pool’s plumbing system. You can do this by checking the pool’s manual or consulting a professional pool technician.

Once you know the direction of water flow, you can locate the suction side of the pump by finding the intake or inlet valve. This valve is usually located closer to the pool and is larger in size than the output or outlet valve.

Another way to identify the suction side is to check the pump’s motor housing. The suction side will have an opening with a basket, while the outlet side will have a closed housing without a basket.

It’s essential to locate the suction side of the pump accurately to avoid damaging the pump or creating a hazardous condition that could lead to injury or even death.

Remove the Pump Lid and Clean the Basket

Before starting any work on the pump, turn off the pool’s power supply. Remove the pump lid by loosening the knobs or screws that hold it in place. Gently lift the lid and set it aside.

The basket is usually located near the pump’s suction side. It is designed to catch any large debris that may be sucked into the pump. Carefully remove the basket from the pump housing and clean it thoroughly.

Inspect the basket for any damage, such as cracks or breaks, that could allow debris to bypass the basket and clog the impeller or other components of the pump. Replace the basket if it is damaged or worn out.

Once the basket is clean and in good condition, replace it in the pump housing and replace the pump lid. Be sure to tighten the knobs or screws securely, but not so tight that they crack the lid or housing.

Shut off the Power and Release Pressure from the System

Before you remove the pump lid, it is important to turn off the power to the pump to avoid any potential electrical hazards. Locate the circuit breaker or switch that controls the power to the pump and turn it off.

Next, you’ll need to release any pressure that has built up in the system. This can be done by turning the air relief valve on top of the filter clockwise until you hear a hissing sound. This indicates that the pressure has been released.

Finally, you’ll want to turn the valve that controls the water flow from the pool to the “off” position. This will prevent any additional water from entering the pump and causing damage while you are working on it.

Remember to never work on a pump that is still receiving power or has pressure in the system. Safety should always be your top priority when performing any maintenance on your pool pump.

Remove the Pump Lid and Clean out the Basket

Step 1: Turn off the power to the pool pump at the circuit breaker or switch. This will prevent any accidents while you’re working on the pump.

Step 2: Release the pressure in the system by opening the air relief valve on top of the filter. If your pump does not have this valve, open the pump lid slowly to release any pressure in the system.

Step 3: Remove the pump lid by turning it counterclockwise. If the lid is stuck, you can use a strap wrench to help loosen it. Once the lid is off, set it aside in a safe place.

Step 4: Take out the pump basket and clean it out. Use a garden hose to rinse it off thoroughly, removing any debris that may have collected inside. You may also want to use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt.

Step 5: Inspect the pump basket and lid gasket for any damage. If there are any cracks or tears, they will need to be replaced before you can reassemble the pump.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to safely remove the pump lid and clean out the basket, ensuring that your pool pump is working at peak performance.

Clean the Lid and O-ring before Replacing

After cleaning the basket, it is important to also clean the lid and O-ring before replacing them.

Remove any debris or dirt from the lid with a soft cloth or brush. Make sure to also clean the O-ring with a mild soap and water solution to remove any buildup or residue.

Check the O-ring for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears, and replace it if necessary. A damaged O-ring can cause leaks and affect the performance of the pump.

When replacing the lid and O-ring, make sure they are properly seated and aligned. Tighten the lid securely but do not over-tighten as this can damage the O-ring and cause leaks.

Prime the Pump and Test the Suction

Before starting the pump, make sure to prime it properly. Fill the pump basket with water and turn on the pump. This will ensure that the pump is lubricated and the impeller is not damaged due to dry running.

After priming, check the suction by turning off the pump and removing the pump basket lid. Check for any debris that may have been sucked into the system. Clear any blockages and replace the lid.

Once the suction is confirmed to be clear, turn on the pump and check for any leaks in the system. Check the pressure gauge to make sure it’s within the acceptable range. If everything is in order, the pool should start to circulate the water effectively.

Fill the Pump with Water and Re-establish the Lid Seal

Step 1: Fill the pump with water until it reaches the top of the basket.

Step 2: Clean the lid seal and lubricate it with silicone lubricant to ensure a tight seal.

Step 3: Replace the lid on the pump and hand-tighten the lid screws in a crisscross pattern.

Step 4: Turn on the power and let the pump run for a few minutes to ensure proper suction and water flow.

Restart the System and Monitor the Suction Gauge

Once the pump is primed and the lid is securely in place, it’s time to restart the system. Turn the power back on and switch the pump to “on” mode.

As the pump runs, keep an eye on the suction gauge. This gauge indicates the amount of suction pressure in the system. Ideally, the gauge should read between 10 and 20 psi. If the gauge reads too high or too low, there may be a problem with the system that needs to be addressed.

Monitor the suction gauge for a few minutes to ensure that it remains within the appropriate range. If everything looks good, you’re all set! Your pool or spa should now be ready for use.

Frequently Asked Questions