Check the weir, or skimmer flap, to ensure it’s moving freely because it can sometimes become clogged by leaves or other debris.Inground pools often include unions in their plumping, which are semi-permanent connectors designed to allow easy disconnection of pipes for maintenance. You may need to replace the o-ring or simply lubricate it to create a stronger seal. If the leak is on the suction side, or perhaps where the water goes into the pump, then it should be an air leak. You can also check the pump basket and lid, either of which may be cracked and require replacement. You have to locate the air leak on time to avoid any further damage to the structure of the pump. The o-ring keeps the pump lid tightly closed, but it can become dry, flattened or cracked over time, allowing air to enter the pump system. At the point of the air leak, you may notice a layer of foam dimple as it sucked into the system, thereby showing the presence of the leak. That said, we also have some DIY suggestions to get you started.Swimming pool pumps are available in different shapes and sizes. Like the system’s other o-rings, these may need to be replaced if they are no longer creating a strong seal.Still stumped about the cause of your pool’s air leak? A pool service trick is to turn the pump on, get the water flow going, and switch off the pump to see where back- pressure forces water out of the system. Check, first, to see if you see air bubbles in the water in the return line when the pool's pump is running. An excellent air leak detection method would be to use shaving cream (really!) If you lose the same amount water when the pump is off, the leak will likely be found in the shell, pool liner or fittings. More so, a leak can occur where the electric motor connects to the pump. Air can be pulled in through the skimmer if the pool’s water level is too low, so make sure the water level reaches up to about the middle of the skimmer’s opening. If there is no instance of leaks, then ask for information. If you lose less water when the pump is off, the leak will likely be found in the skimmer and main drain.

Here are some of the most common areas where air leaks can develop:With the pump turned off, take off the lid and examine the o-ring. In a perfect installation a pool pump will purge all the air from the system and no bubbles at all should be visible in the pump housing. The same may also occur in the outlet section of the pump. If the pool has an air leak, consult with a professional pool service as soon as possible. Usually, they also have threaded connections at the piping system, where water is sucked in and pushed out through the pump. Plus, damage in the pump lid O-ring, and the drain plugs can also suffer from wear and tear, thus causing leaks.Once you determine the source of the air leaks, the next step is to locate a specific cause. Once you identify the source of the air leak, rinse the shaving cream off with some water. The seal will prevent water from escaping the system through a shaft the rotates the impeller. I cranked that hose clamp down so hard I needed a drill to get it off and the stupid thing still leaked. If your pump has an air leak, you may notice bubbles in the pump pot and air coming out through the returns to the pool water. A loss of water in the pool is generally not related to an air leak. In other words, the pool pump might be having a suction (negative pressure) on the intake section of the pump. It will cause the pump to lose prime and compromise the flow of water.