A properly functioning pool pump is essential to maintaining clean, clear water in your swimming pool. One of its primary roles is to pull water from the skimmer, filtering out debris and circulating chemicals throughout the system. However, if you notice that your pool pump is not pulling from the skimmer, it could indicate a range of underlying issues—from simple fixes to more complex mechanical failures.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common causes of such an issue, how to identify the source, and the step-by-step solutions you can implement to restore proper water flow and ensure your pool remains in optimal condition.
Understanding the Role of the Skimmer and Pool Pump
Before diving into the potential problems, it’s important to understand how the pool pump and skimmer work together in the filtration system.
The skimmer is the opening located at the waterline, usually near the edge of the pool. Its purpose is to draw in and collect floating debris—like leaves, bugs, and oils—from the surface. Most pools have one or more skimmers, and these are connected to the pool pump, which generates the suction force necessary to pull water and debris through the plumbing lines into the filter.
The pump, functioning as the heart of the pool system, uses an impeller to create pressure that circulates water through the filter, heater (if applicable), and back into the pool. When this process is disrupted and your pool pump fails to pull water from the skimmer, it’s time to inspect possible issues.
Common Reasons Why Your Pool Pump Is Not Pulling from the Skimmer
1. Clogged or Full Skimmer Basket
One of the most common and straightforward causes is a clogged or full skimmer basket. The skimmer basket is designed to capture large debris before it enters the pump and filter. If it’s full or packed with leaves and dirt, it can block water flow into the system.
To resolve:
- Turn off the pool pump
- Remove the skimmer lid and basket
- Clean the basket thoroughly
- Inspect the skimmer throat for larger debris that may be stuck
- Reinstall the basket and restart the pump
If the pump starts pulling from the skimmer again after this troubleshooting, you now know the issue was a blockage in the basket.
2. Blockage in the Skimmer Line or Main Drain
Another frequent culprit is debris buildup in the skimmer line or even the main drain line leading to the pump. This can cause restricted flow or complete blockage of water movement.
To diagnose this:
- Remove any visible debris from the skimmer
- Shut off the pump
- Remove the skimmer basket again
- Look into the skimmer opening—usually there’s a small port where water should be entering if the pump is circulating properly
If there’s little or no water movement, you may have a pipe blockage.
Solution options include:
- Using a pool snake or plumbing auger to clear the lines
- Installing a pressure washer or wet-dry vacuum to push or pull debris from the line
- If the pipe is severely clogged or collapsed, professional service may be needed
3. Faulty or Closed Multiport Valve
If your pool system includes a sand or diatomaceous earth (DE) filter, check the multiport valve setting. This valve directs water flow through the filtration system and has various functions, including filtration, backwash, rinse, and recirculate. If the valve is in the wrong position, water may not be drawn from the skimmer.
Settings to check:
| Position | Description |
|---|---|
| FILTER | Water draws from skimmer and main drain, passes through the filter, then returns to pool |
| BACKWASH | Reverses flow to clean filter (pump does not draw from skimmer here) |
| RINSE | Flushes lines after backwashing |
| RECIRCULATE | Takes water from the pool returns but bypasses the filter |
Tip: If the valve is not in the FILTER position, that’s likely why the skimmer is not pulling water.
4. Leaks in the Suction Side of the Pump
A vacuum leak on the suction side of the pump can allow air to enter the system, breaking the prime and preventing the pump from drawing water effectively. These leaks occur mainly in the fittings, gaskets, or around the pump lid.
To identify a leak:
- Turn off the pump
- Wipe the pump lid and O-ring dry
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the O-ring
- Reinstall the lid and restart the pump
- Inspect for visible bubbles in the pump basket that indicate an air leak
If you notice air bubbles:
- Tighten all connections carefully
- Replace cracked or worn gaskets
- Ensure all pipe connections are sealed properly
Leaks in the underground lines are trickier and may require professional pressure testing.
5. Improper Water Level in the Pool
If the water level is too low, the skimmer’s opening may be partly or completely exposed, affecting its ability to draw in water. A skimmer functions best when it’s halfway up on the wall of the pool, allowing water to flow into it smoothly.
Check and maintain proper water level:
- Add water as needed to cover the skimmer opening by about halfway
- Monitor for signs of water loss—evaporation, leaks, or splashout
Frequent water level drops may indicate a leak in the pool or plumbing, which requires closer inspection or the help of a pool professional.
6. Broken or Malfunctioning Skimmer Dam or Weir Door
The weir, or the small flap at the front of the skimmer, helps ensure water flows into the skimmer effectively by preventing backflow. If the weir is damaged, stuck, or improperly aligned, it can reduce the amount of water drawn in.
Fixing the weir includes:
- Remove any debris that may be jamming the weir
- Replace the weir if it’s cracked or non-functional
- Ensure it opens and closes fluidly during pump operation
7. Impeller Clogging or Damage
Inside the pump lies the impeller, a crucial component that creates the suction needed to draw water through the system. If small debris (like sand, hair, or fine particles) gets trapped or the impeller is damaged or corroded, it may not create sufficient pressure.
How to check the impeller:
- Turn off and unplug the pump
- Remove the pump lid and drain any water
- Inspect the impeller for clogs or damage
- Use a brush or tool to gently remove obstructions
- Ensure the impeller spins freely
If the impeller is broken or severely worn, it must be replaced with a compatible model suited for your pump.
8. Improperly Set Main Drain or Skimmer Valves
Some pools use both a skimmer and a main drain, which are connected via suction line valves known as multi-valve systems. If these valves are not balanced properly, the main drain may be drawing more water, overriding the skimmer.
Valve adjustment steps:
- Locate the valves near your pump
- Turn the skimmer valve more open or close the main drain valve slightly
- Check if this increases water draw from the skimmer
Valves should be balanced to allow water to come from both the skimmer and the main drain to prevent flow imbalance.
When to Call a Professional Pool Technician
While many of the issues outlined above can be handled with proper tools and knowledge, some problems require the assistance of a qualified technician. You should consider professional help if:
- There’s persistent air leaking into the system even after seals and gaskets are replaced
- You suspect underground line blockages or collapsed suction lines
- Your pool consistently loses prime despite checking all visible connections
- You’re dealing with an old or damaged pool pump that may need replacement
- There’s unusual wear or damage in the pump or motor casing
Additionally, if you’re uncertain about working with electrical components or high-pressure systems, it’s always better to contact a licensed pool service provider.
How to Prevent Skimmer Pull Issues in the Future
Prevention is often the best cure. Here are several tips to help minimize the possibility of pool pump skimmer flow problems:
- Regular cleaning: Clean your skimmer basket daily or at least several times a week, especially during heavy leaf periods.
- Monthly inspections: Check for signs of leaking, wear, or damage in the pump system, and ensure O-rings and gaskets are in good condition.
- Proper water level: Maintain a consistent water level that ensures the skimmer is always submerged to function properly.
- Monitor chemical balance: Balanced pool chemistry prevents corrosion and damage to internal mechanical parts.
- Seasonal maintenance: As part of seasonal opening and closing, perform a **full system flush and check alignment of valves and impellers**.
Conclusion
When your pool pump is not pulling from the skimmer, it can lead to unsightly debris buildup, poor water circulation, and chemical imbalance. Fortunately, most of these issues are solvable with basic troubleshooting and routine maintenance. However, if the problem persists even after inspecting the basket, valves, impeller, and lines, it may be time to call in a professional.
By understanding the relationship between the skimmer and the pump and recognizing the signs of trouble, pool owners can keep their pools running efficiently—and safely—all season long.
Regular maintenance, attention to operational signs, and quick action when issues arise are the keys to a high-performing pool system. If you stay vigilant and proactive, you can ensure that water is always flowing smoothly from your skimmer through the pump and back into your pristine, sparkling pool.
Key Takeaways
- A full or clogged skimmer basket is a common cause of poor water flow into the pump
- Suction line blockages and impeller clogs reduce pump efficiency
- The multiport valve must be in the correct position (FILTER) for water to flow through the skimmer
- Air leaks anywhere in the suction lines can interfere with the pump’s priming process
- Regular inspection of skimmer and pump components helps avoid serious issues
Whether you’re dealing with a new installation or maintaining an older system, staying ahead of common pool pump and skimmer problems helps ensure that your pool remains a source of pleasure, not frustration.
For best results, maintain a regular preventive maintenance schedule and don’t overlook the small but critical details—like water level, basket cleaning, and valve position—that keep your pool system performing at its best.
Why is my pool pump not pulling water from the skimmer?
There are several possible reasons why your pool pump isn’t pulling water from the skimmer. A common issue is an air leak in the system, typically caused by a loose or damaged lid on the pump basket or cracked plumbing on the suction side. If air is entering the system, it can disrupt the flow of water from the skimmer, leading to poor circulation or the pump losing prime. Additionally, low water levels in the pool can prevent the skimmer from functioning properly, as the skimmer inlet must be submerged to draw in water effectively.
Another potential cause could be a blockage in the skimmer itself or in the pipe leading from the skimmer to the pump. Debris like leaves, twigs, or even small toys can clog the skimmer basket or the plumbing line, restricting water flow. It’s also possible that the main drain is taking in more water than the skimmer, especially if the skimmer line valve is partially closed or the main drain line is wide open. To diagnose this, inspect and clean the skimmer basket, ensure the water level is adequate, and check the valve settings to balance the flow between the skimmer and main drain.
How do I check if the skimmer is clogged?
To check if the skimmer is clogged, start by turning off the pool pump and removing the skimmer basket. Inspect the basket for an accumulation of leaves, dirt, or other debris that may be preventing water from flowing through. Clean the basket thoroughly and return it to the skimmer. Also, check the skimmer throat (the opening inside the skimmer where water enters) for obstructions. You can use a garden hose to flush out any debris that might be lodged in the skimmer line.
If the skimmer basket and throat appear clear, the clog might be further down the line, in the plumbing between the skimmer and the pump. One way to test this is by performing a “flow test” using the hose: turn the pump off, remove the skimmer lid, and run water into the skimmer through the hose. If the water doesn’t flow into the pump quickly, there’s likely a blockage in the pipe. In such cases, a professional plumber or pool technician may need to snake out the line or use a plumbing camera to locate and remove the obstruction.
What should I do if there’s an air leak in the suction line?
If you suspect an air leak in the suction line, start by inspecting the pump lid and basket. A damaged or improperly seated lid gasket is a common source of air intrusion. Replace the gasket if it shows signs of wear or cracking. Also, check the PVC pipes, unions, and valves leading from the skimmer to the pump for cracks, loose connections, or signs of moisture that may indicate a leak. Any compromised fittings should be tightened or replaced as needed to restore a proper seal.
Another helpful method to detect air leaks is to pour a small amount of dish soap around pipe joints and fittings while the pump is running. If bubbles form, that confirms an air leak at that location. Once identified, the affected section of plumbing should be repaired or sealed. If you are unsure how to properly replace pipe sections or fittings, it may be best to consult a licensed pool technician to avoid further damage or complications with your system.
Are the valves set correctly if the pump is not drawing from the skimmer?
Improperly set valves can definitely prevent the pump from drawing water from the skimmer. Most pools have multiple suction lines, including the skimmer and the main drain, each of which is controlled by a valve. If the skimmer line valve is closed or only partially open, water won’t be able to travel from the skimmer to the pump. Adjust the valve so that it’s fully open on the skimmer line and partially closed on the main drain line—this will encourage the pump to draw more water from the skimmer.
It’s also important to ensure that multiport valves, if your system has one, are set correctly to direct water flow from the skimmer. A misaligned multiport valve can change the direction of water flow or reduce suction to the point where the skimmer isn’t picking up properly. Check your filter system’s owner’s manual to verify the correct settings and adjust the valve accordingly. If the valve is damaged or won’t turn smoothly, it may need replacement to restore proper flow control.
How important is the water level in the pool for skimmer operation?
The water level in your pool plays a crucial role in the operation of the skimmer. The skimmer needs to have its opening partially submerged to effectively draw surface water into the pump. If the water level is too low, the skimmer may begin to suck air instead of water, causing the pump to lose prime and stop functioning properly. This can also lead to increased wear on pump components, as running a pump without adequate water can cause overheating or damage to the impeller and seals.
To ensure proper skimmer performance, maintain the water level approximately halfway up the skimmer opening. This allows for optimal surface skimming and prevents air from being pulled into the system. If your water level drops due to evaporation, leaks, or splash-out, refill the pool as needed to maintain the correct level. Regularly checking the water level is an essential maintenance task that can prevent a variety of pump and filtration issues.
Can a dirty filter affect water flow from the skimmer?
Yes, a dirty or clogged pool filter can significantly reduce water flow from the skimmer. When the filter media is overloaded with debris, it creates resistance that limits how much water can pass through the system, which in turn can reduce suction at the skimmer. This is especially common with sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth (DE) filters that haven’t been cleaned or backwashed regularly.
To resolve this, check your filter pressure gauge—if it reads 8–10 psi above the normal clean pressure, it’s time to clean the filter. For sand filters, backwashing should help restore proper flow. Cartridge filters need to be removed and rinsed thoroughly with a hose, while DE filters may require disassembly and cleaning of the grids. Regular maintenance of your filter ensures consistent water circulation and prevents decreased skimmer performance due to flow restrictions.
When should I call a professional for skimmer and pump issues?
If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting steps—checking for clogs, adjusting valves, sealing air leaks, and maintaining water levels—but still can’t get your pump to pull water from the skimmer, it’s time to seek professional help. A licensed pool technician can diagnose more complex issues such as underground pipe leaks, pump impeller damage, or structural problems in the skimmer itself that require specialized tools or knowledge for repair.
Additionally, if you’re dealing with electrical issues, unusual noises coming from the pump, or persistent loss of prime despite all efforts, professional assistance is highly recommended. Technicians can perform system pressure tests, use advanced leak detection equipment, or assess whether components like the pump or filter need repair or replacement. Consulting with an expert ensures long-term reliability of your pool system and can help avoid costly damage due to improper DIY fixes.