Tiny micro bubbles coming from returns

[krdowns]

Since we started using our pool this season, I have noticed tiny little bubbles coming from the returns. I'm not sure if we have an air leak somewhere in a suction line or if this might be caused by the swcg. I've also noticed that the basket on the pump is not full and the pump wants to re-prime itself sometimes. This makes me think that there's air coming in somewhere. Any ideas? I am going to test the water tomorrow, so I don't have any figures on levels right now.

Edit: I have a 4 speed pump, which is normally running on the #2 setting. When it's running #3, the bubbles don't seem to be there and the basket on the pump is full.

[Phillbo]

Clean and grease the o-ring on the pump basket.

[krdowns]

Thanks for the help. I'll try that.

[Watermom]

Make sure you use a lubricant made for pool pumps. Do NOT use petroleum jelly (Vaseline).

[krdowns]

So, after further investigation, it looks like the swcg is causing the bubbles. I think the salt content is a little high, but could that be the problem? Or is the output set too high?

[mas985]

SWCGs normally create bubbles. These are hydrogen bubbles that are part of the electrolysis process.

[krdowns]

Thanks for the help!

[krdowns]

So I cleaned and lubed the o-ring on the pump basket, but I am still getting air coming from somewhere. The pump basket does not stay full of water after priming. If I set the pump to the #1 setting (4 speed Pentair pump), it stopped drawing water completely and I shut it off before it went into alarm mode. Any ideas on what to check next?

[mas985]

So what are the four speed settings in terms of RPM?

Also, what size is your plumbing and how many suction pipes go all the way from the pool to the pump?

Can you post a picture of your equipment setup?

[krdowns]

I found the air leak!! There was a bad o-ring on the suction line from the main drain. Thanks for the help.