How To Clean Out the Pool Pump Strainer

This guide will walk you through cleaning out the pool pump strainer. The strainer basket in the pool pump housing assembly collects large pieces of debris that were missed by the skimmer or were sucked in through the main drains. The pool pump strainer prevents debris from entering the pump assembly and clogging the impeller. To prevent the strainer from clogging and reducing the flow of water through the pool system, the pool pump strainer basket should be checked and cleared weekly.

1. The first step is to turn off the pool pump to stop the flow of water through the pump.

2. Next, you will have to relieve the pressure that has built up in the pool pump and water line. Note the pressure on the pressure gauge. It will typically read between 15 - 20 psi. To relieve pressure turn the air relief valve on top of the filter counterclockwise. Water will spray out initially as you see the pressure on the pressure gauge go to 0 psi.

3. To open up the strainer, 1-turn the two knobs on top of the strainer lid counter-clockwise and 2- swivel the knobs down away from the lid. Note: Some pool pump strainer lids screw-on instead of having knobs. In this case, twist the lid counter-clockwise to remove the lid off the top of the strainer.

4. Lift the lid off the top of the pool pump strainer.

5. Check the basket for debris.

6. Lift the basket out of the pool pump housing assembly.

7. Clean the debris out of the bottom of the pool pump basket with a garden hose. DO NOT knock the basket on the ground or hard surface. The pool pump basket is flexible plastic and will break over time.

8. Drop the pool pump basket into the housing assembly.

9. Check the pool pump strainer gasket for tears or stretching. Replace if required. Before replacing the strainer lid, we recommend that you apply a thin coat of lubrication on the strainer gasket. This will help seat the gasket and will prolong its life.

10. Replace the pool pump lid.

11. Swivel bolts up and tighten bolts alternately to maintain equal pressure on the pool pump lid. Hand tightening is sufficient.

12. Turn on power to the pool pump to build up pressure in the system.

13. The air relief valve should still be open. As the pressure builds, air will be released through the relief valve. When water starts to spray out of the valve, turn the valve clockwise to close it

If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help! 

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