How to Prime a Pool Pump the Easy Way

If your pool pump is making noise but not moving water, it probably needs to be primed. Priming simply means filling the pump with water to remove air and restore proper suction.

A pump that isn’t primed properly can overheat, lose suction, or damage the motor. In this guide, we’ll show you how to prime a pool pump the easy way, step-by-step — and how to avoid issues in the future.

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What Does Priming a Pool Pump Mean?

Priming is the process of:

• Filling the pump housing with water

• Pushing air out of the system

• Allowing proper suction to begin

Without a prime, the pump runs dry, air builds up, and no water flows through the system.

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When Does a Pool Pump Need Priming?

• After cleaning the pump basket

• After draining the pool or filter

• When opening your pool for the season

• After heavy storms or water loss

• If the pump loses suction suddenly

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How to Prime a Pool Pump (Step-by-Step)

1. Turn Off the Pump

Safety first. Turn off power at the breaker or timer before touching any part of the pump or filter system.

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2. Set Valve to “Recirculate” (if available)

If your pool has a multiport valve:

• Set it to “Recirculate” instead of “Filter”

• This bypasses the filter and allows easier flow back to the pool

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3. Open the Pump Lid

Unscrew the clear lid on your pool pump housing. You’ll likely see air and no water inside if the pump has lost prime.

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4. Fill the Pump Housing with Water

Using a garden hose or bucket, pour clean water into the pump housing until it’s full.

• Fill to the very top of the housing

• Do it slowly to avoid splashing and wasting water

• Make sure the pump basket is clean and seated properly

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5. Replace the Lid Securely

• Ensure the O-ring is in place and clean

• Screw the lid back on tightly to form a seal

• Hand-tighten only — don’t overtighten

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6. Open All Valves and Bleed Air

• Make sure skimmer, main drain, and return valves are all open

• Open the air relief valve on your filter (usually found on top of the unit)

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7. Turn the Pump Back On

• Switch power back on

• Watch for water movement in the pump window

• You should see air bubbles for a few seconds, followed by solid water flow

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8. Close the Air Relief Valve

• Once water begins flowing out of the filter’s relief valve in a steady stream, close the valve

Your pump is now primed.

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How to Tell If Your Pump Is Properly Primed

✅ Water is visibly flowing through the pump window
✅ Return jets in the pool are flowing strongly
✅ No air bubbles in the pump or skimmer
✅ No dry “whirring” sound from the pump

If water doesn’t begin flowing after 2–3 minutes, turn off the pump and repeat the priming steps.

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What If the Pump Still Won’t Prime?

Try the following:

• Refill pump housing — you may need to do it 2–3 times

• Check pump lid seal and O-ring for cracks

• Check for low water level in the pool

• Check for clogs in skimmer or suction lines

• Ensure all valves are open

Persistent issues may indicate air leaks, blockages, or worn pump parts. Visit our pool products section for spare parts, seals, and accessories.

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Preventing Prime Loss in the Future

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Conclusion

Learning how to prime a pool pump properly saves you time, protects your equipment, and keeps your pool running smoothly.

It’s a simple 10-minute task that prevents bigger problems. Refill the housing, seal the lid, purge air — and you’re good to go.

Need pump parts, baskets, or seals? Shop our full pool products range or drop into our local stores for expert support.

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FAQ