On Aug 30, 8:39*am, wrote:
On Aug 30, 8:20*am, jamesgangnc wrote:





On Aug 29, 5:05*pm, Lee wrote:

I realize this is not directly related to the purpose of this group,
so if you know of a better place for me to ask, please let me know.

We have a problem with our Pentair-WhisperFlo pool pump. *It is not
able to fully prime, even with addition of water into the pump body
directly (via the volute/strainer basket). *It seems able to draw
about 1/2 the amount it needs to fully prime and operate. *We have
replaced the pump impeller, and have tried to clear the inlet line (1
inch PVC pipe) through pressure from a garden-hose expansion nozzle
from both directions. *Nothing has worked. *We believe there is
probably a blockage/obstruction of some kind in the pipe between the
pool and the pump (perhaps a tree root that has gradually penetrated
the pipe).

Does anyone have any ideas of what else we can do to find out if there
is an obstruction in this inlet pipe? *Our resources are quite tight,
so hiring a plumber to come in with specialized/optical equipment
would be beyond our reach at this point.

Thanks for any suggestions you may have.

Lee

As others have suggested run a snake down it. *You do need to get all
the air out. *If it is able to draw any water at all then it will pump
what it can. *The fact that there is a partial restriction does not
prevent it from priming.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Agree with John regarding the pipe size. * I don't know how small a
pump Pentair makes in that line, but 1" line for a pool is unusual.
More typical is 2". * *Also agree with gfretw, regarding opening the
bleed air valve on the filter. *I would think it could take a lot
longer without the bleed air valve open, but eventually it should
still get all the air out.

How many hp pump? * How old? *Was it working OK prior to the sudden
problem?

What happens if you set the valve to waste, so water is not returning
to the pool and just being pumped out the short waste hose? * Will it
quickly prime and run OK then?- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

Also, check the o ring on the pump strainer basket. If it has any
cracks or looks worn out, replace it. And make sure to use some
teflon grease to lubricate it. Air leaks at this spot are very
common.

And for more help, you can't beat the pool and spa forum which you can
find on the internet