Taking care of an above-ground pool can be fun, but it’s important to keep all of its parts clean for the best performance and longest life. One important part of pool care is keeping the pump basket clean. This is because the basket filters out the debris and keeps the system from getting clogged. I’ve learned a few helpful tips on how to maintain and clean the pump basket of my above-ground pool so that it stays in great shape.
By taking a few easy steps, you can make sure that the water in your pool moves smoothly and stays clear all summer. In this blog post, we’ll look at how to clean the pump basket step by step, from turning off the pool’s system to taking out the basket and cleaning it. Get ready to dive into the world of easy-to-care-for pools!
How Does the Pump Basket Work in An Above-Ground Pool?
The pump basket is a very important part of an above-ground pool’s filtering system. It keeps the system clean and makes sure it works well. Its main job is to catch and hold waste so that it doesn’t get into the pump and possibly damage it or slow down the filtration process.
As the skimmer draws water from the pool into the pump, the water goes through the pump basket. The basket acts as a barrier, stopping bigger pieces of trash like leaves, twigs, insects, and other things from getting through. The pump basket helps protect the impeller, motor, and other internal parts of the pump from damage that can be caused by clogging or too much pressure.
Also, the pump basket is a key part of making sure water flows and moves around well. If the basket gets clogged or full of garbage, it can slow the flow of water and make the filtration system less effective. This can make the water quality worse, cause more chemicals to be used, and put stress on the pump, which could shorten its life.
By cleaning the pump basket often, you can make sure that it stays free of debris and that the filter system can work at its best. By keeping the pump basket clean, pool owners can keep the water in their pool clear and healthy. This also helps the filter system last longer and work better.
How to Clean the Pump Basket on an Above-Ground Pool
The pump basket can get jammed with leaves, twigs, and other things. This can stop the water from flowing and make the filtration process less effective. By cleaning the pump basket often, you can avoid these problems and keep the water in your pool clean and clear. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to clean the pump basket on your above-ground pool. This will help you keep your pool running at its best.
Step 1: Get the tools and materials you need
Before you start to clean the pump basket, you should make sure you have all the tools and supplies you need. The following things are needed:
- Screwdriver or wrench: Depending on the type of pump, you may need a screwdriver or a wrench to take off the pump lid.
- Pool skimmer net or leaf rake: Use a skimmer net or leaf rake to remove any big debris from the water’s surface before cleaning the pump basket. This will stop too much trash from getting into the basket and clogging it up.
- Garden Hose: To rinse and clean the pump basket, use an outdoor hose with a nozzle attachment.
Step 2: Shut off the pump
Before you try to clean the pump basket, you should always turn off the pool pump for safety. Find the power switch or breaker for the pool pump and turn it off to cut the power.
Step 3: Get to the Pump Basket
You can usually find the pump box near the pool pump. It usually comes in a clear or dark plastic case with a lid that can be taken off. You can open and take off the pump lid with the screwdriver or wrench. Be careful, because the pump may still have air in it, which could cause the lid to pop off with force. To remove any pressure, slowly turn the lid counterclockwise while pressing down on it until you feel air coming out. Once the pressure is gone, it’s safe to take the lid off.
Step 4: Remove Debris from the Pump Basket
When you take off the pump cover, you’ll see the pump basket inside the case. Lift the basket carefully out of its housing, being careful not to let any rubble fall back into the pool. Check the basket for any obvious trash and take it out by hand or with a leaf rake or skimmer net. Put the trash in a garbage bag or a waste bin.
Step 5: Rinse the Pump Basket
Now that all the trash is out of the pump basket, it’s time to rinse it clean. Use the nozzle on the end of the outdoor hose to send a stream of water into the basket. The pressure of the water will help move and flush out any waste that is still stuck. Pay attention to the sides and bottom of the basket and make sure that all of the dirt is washed away well.
Step 6: Check the Pump Housing
While the pump basket is out, take a moment to check the pump housing for any dirt or blockages. Use a skimmer net, a leaf rake, or your hands to get rid of any obvious trash. This will help keep the water flowing well and keep it from getting clogged up in the future.
Step 7: Put the Pump Basket back together
Once the basket and body of the pump are clean, it’s time to put everything back together. Put the pump basket back in its frame and make sure it fits tightly. Align the lid with the frame and screw it back on carefully. Make sure the lid is tight, but don’t overtighten it or you could damage the threads or lid.
Step 8: Turn On the Pool Pump
After cleaning the pump basket and putting it back together, you can turn the pool pump back on. Find the switch or breaker for the power and turn it on. The pump should begin to work, and water should flow through the pump and back into the pool.
Step 9: Keep an eye on the pool
After you clean the pump basket, keep an eye on your pool for any changes in the way the water flows or strange sounds. If you notice problems, like less water flow or a lot of noise, it could mean that the pump or filter system is broken. In these situations, it’s best to call a skilled pool technician for help.
Step 10: Keep a regular schedule for cleaning
To keep your pool going well, you should make sure to clean the pump basket on a regular basis. Depending on how much trash is in your pool, you might need to clean the basket every week or every other week. Keeping up with maintenance will help avoid clogs and keep the pool running at its best.
By carefully following these steps, you can clean the pump basket on your above-ground pool. With regular care of the pump basket, your pool’s filtration system will last longer and work better, giving you clean, clear water to swim in all swimming seasons.
Alternative Ways to Clean the Pump Basket on an Above-Ground Pool
Certainly! Even though the steps above are the most common and effective way to clean the pump basket on an above-ground pool, you can also try a few other things. These methods may be different based on how your pool’s pump and filtration system is set up. Here are a couple of other ways to do it:
1. Method of Backwash
Some above-ground pools have a backwash feature that lets you clean the pump basket without having to open the pump box. The backwash method works like this:
- Stop the pool pump and find the backwash valve, which is generally close to the pool pump.
- Move the handle of the valve to the “Backwash” setting.
- Turn on the pump again. This will change the direction of the water flow and clean out the pump basket.
- Let the water run for a few minutes until clear water comes out of the backwash hose or discharge line.
- Turn the pool pump off and put the valve back where it was.
- Turn the pump back on and make sure the water is flowing properly.
2. Pre-Filter Method
Installing a pre-filter between the pool cleaner and the pump is another option. The pre-filter adds another level of filtering by catching bigger pieces of trash before they get to the pump basket. This method can help cut down on how often the pump basket needs to be cleaned. The pre-filter method works like this:
- Buy a pre-filter that works with the way your pool is set up.
- Put the pre-filter between the pump and the pool cleaner. For good installation, you should follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
- Follow the instructions from the maker on how often to check and clean the pre-filter.
- Check the pump basket every so often to see if any dirt got past the pre-filter. If you need to, follow the steps above to clean the pump basket.
- Remember that it’s important to check the manual for your pool or talk to a professional if you’re not sure how to use other ways. Your pool’s filtration system may need different kinds of upkeep for its different parts and features.
3. Leaf Trap Method
If there are a lot of leaves and big pieces of trash in your pool, you can use a leaf trap instead of cleaning the pump basket to get rid of them. The leaf trap method works like this:
- Buy a leaf trap that works with the way your pool is set up.
- Follow the instructions on the package to connect the leaf trap between the pool cleaner and the pump.
- The leaf trap works as a pre-filter, catching large debris before it gets to the pump basket.
- Check the leaf trap often and clean it out when it gets full. Put the trash in a garbage bag or a waste bin.
- Even though the leaf trap cuts down on the amount of waste that gets into the pump basket, it is still important to clean the pump basket every so often by following the steps above.
4. Air Compressor Method
Those who have access to an air generator can use this method to clean the pump basket of debris that is hard to move. The air pump method works like this:
- Turn off the pump and take the lid off the pump.
- Use an air generator that comes with a blowgun.
- Place the blowgun close to the bottom of the pump bin and aim it at the trash.
- Gradually raise the air pressure and let out small bursts of air to clear the pump basket of debris.
- Be careful not to use too much air pressure, because that could hurt the pump or blow trash back into the pool.
- Once the trash is loose, take it out of the pump basket and use water from a yard hose to clean the basket, as described in the previous steps.
- Put the pump basket back together and turn on the pool pump.
- Be careful when using alternative methods, and always follow the safety instructions that the makers give. If you’re not sure how to clean your pool’s filtration system with other methods, it’s best to check the manual or talk to an expert.
What are the Common Types of Debris that Can Accumulate in the Pump Basket?
When it comes to an above-ground pool, the pump basket can get clogged with different kinds of debris that can make the pump less effective and mess up the filtration system. Knowing what kinds of debris tend to get stuck in the pump basket will help you clean and maintain it well.
Leaves
Leaves are one of the most common types of debris found in pool pump baskets. They can be blown into the pool by the wind or fall from nearby trees. The pump basket catches these leaves so they don’t get into the pump and cause problems.
Twigs and Branches
Leaves, twigs, and small branches can get into the pool. These bigger pieces of debris can build up in the pump basket and block the flow of water.
Insects and Bugs
Bugs and insects are attracted to pool water, and it’s easy for them to get stuck in the pump basket. Bees, wasps, mosquitoes, and other flying bugs may end up in the pool and in the basket.
Grass Clippings
If your pool is near a field, grass clippings can get into the pool and clog up the pump basket. Grass clippings can get into the pool when the wind blows them there or when you are cleaning the pool.
Small Debris
Small pieces of dirt, sand, and small rocks can end up in the pump basket. These things can get into the pool in a number of ways, like when users drag them in or when the wind blows them in.
Pool Toys and Accessories
Pool toys, pool noodles, and other items can sometimes end up in the pump basket. These things can cause major blockages and should be removed as soon as possible.
Checking the pump basket regularly and figuring out what kind of debris is in it will help you deal with any problems. Cleaning the pump basket regularly, preferably once a week or more often when there is a lot of debris, will help keep the water flowing properly and protect the pump and filtration system from damage.
FAQs
How often should the pump basket be cleaned?
It is best to clean the pump basket once a week, especially when there is a lot of debris or a lot of people using the pool. However, the frequency of cleaning will depend on things like the size of the pool, the plants around it, and the weather.
What happens if you don’t clean the pump basket regularly?
If the pump basket isn’t cleaned regularly, it can get clogged with debris, which blocks the flow of water. This puts stress on the pump, makes it less effective, and affects the pool’s filtration system. Poor water flow can also lead to poor circulation, which can make the water cloudy or stagnant and make algae growth more likely.
Can I clean the pump basket with a power washer?
Most of the time, you shouldn’t use a pressure washer to clean the pump basket. The high pressure from a pressure washer could damage the pump basket or move parts out of place. Instead, you should use an outdoor hose with a nozzle to gently rinse and clean the pump basket.
Should I clean the basket of the pump while it’s running?
No, you should turn off the pool pump before cleaning the pump basket. Cleaning the basket while the pump is running can be dangerous and increase the risk of getting hurt. Always make sure the pump is off and there is no electricity before opening the pump lid and getting to the basket.
How can I make sure that trash doesn’t get into the pump basket in the first place?
To keep leaves and other large debris from getting into the pump basket, skim the top of the pool regularly with a skimmer net or leaf rake. You could also use a pool cover when the pool is not in use to keep debris from falling in.
Can the pump bin be cleaned without taking it out of the housing?
Yes, some pump baskets have a clear lid or a drain plug that lets you remove debris without fully opening the pump housing. Just open the drain plug or clear lid, take out any visible debris, and then close it tightly.
What should I do if I find a crack or damage in the pump basket?
If the pump basket has cracks or other damage, it’s best to replace it. If debris gets past the cracks, it could damage the pump or filtration system. You can buy a new basket at a pool supply shop or from the maker.
Is there anything I should do to keep myself safe when I clean the pump basket?
Yes, always be careful and follow safety rules. Turn off the pump and make sure there is no electricity before getting to the pump basket. Don’t overtighten the pump lid to keep it from breaking. If the pump basket is hard to get out, look at the manufacturer’s instructions or ask a professional for help.
What is the clear lid on some pump baskets used for?
The clear lid lets you see inside the pump basket without having to open the housing. This is a quick way to see how much debris is in the basket and decide if it needs to be cleaned. However, it is still important to open the housing and clean the basket every so often for proper maintenance.
Can I clean the pump box with a pool vacuum?
No, a pool vacuum should not be used to clean the pump basket. Pool vacuums are made to clean the floor and walls of the pool, while the pump basket is made to catch debris from the skimmer. Using a pool vacuum to clean the pump basket can damage either the vacuum or the basket.
Conclusion
Remember that it’s important to check your pool’s guidebook or talk to a professional if you’re not sure about how to use alternative methods. Depending on the features and parts of your pool’s filtration system, you may need to maintain it in a certain way.
