ACORB POOLS

10/29/2026

💧 WHY IS YOUR POOL LOSING WATER? 7 WARNING SIGNS YOU MAY HAVE A LEAK! 🏊‍♂️

Have you noticed that your swimming pool needs more water than usual? Are you constantly adding water without knowing why?

Some water loss is normal, especially during hot Texas weather. But excessive water loss could mean your pool has a leak, and ignoring it can lead to higher water bills, damaged equipment, and expensive repairs.

🔎 HERE ARE 7 WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR:

💧 1. Your pool loses water faster than normal.\
A pool can lose around ¼ inch of water per day through evaporation, sometimes more depending on the weather. Consistently excessive water loss may indicate a leak.

💰 2. Your water bill keeps increasing.\
An underground leak can waste hundreds of gallons without leaving any visible signs.

🌱 3. You notice wet spots around your pool.\
Unexplained puddles, soggy soil, or unusually green grass near your pool could indicate leaking plumbing.

🫧 4. Your pump loses prime or produces air bubbles.\
Air entering the circulation system may indicate suction-side problems that need attention.

⚙️ 5. Your pool loses more water when the pump is running.\
This could point to a leak in the return plumbing, filter connections, or other pressurized components.

🔍 6. You see cracks around pool fittings.\
Damaged skimmers, loose fittings, or cracks in the pool structure can allow water to escape.

🚨 7. You're constantly refilling your pool.\
Frequent refilling isn't just inconvenient. Low water levels can cause your pump to draw air, lose prime, overheat, and potentially suffer expensive damage.

🪣 QUICK TIP: TRY THE BUCKET TEST!

Place a bucket filled with pool water on a pool step and mark the water levels inside and outside the bucket. After 24 hours, compare the drops. If the pool loses significantly more water than the bucket, you may have a leak.

✅ DON'T IGNORE THE WARNING SIGNS!

A small leak today can become a costly problem tomorrow. Early detection can help protect your swimming pool, equipment, and wallet.

🏊‍♂️ LET ACORB POOLS HELP!

At ACORB Pools, our experienced technicians provide professional weekly pool cleaning, equipment inspections, troubleshooting, and repairs.

We can inspect your pool and equipment for visible problems, evaluate circulation issues, and recommend specialized leak detection when necessary.

✅ Licensed & Insured\
✅ BBB A+ Rated\
✅ Experienced Pool Technicians\
✅ Reliable Weekly Pool Service\
✅ Professional Equipment Inspections & Repairs

📍 Proudly serving Katy, Sugar Land, Richmond, Missouri City, Greatwood, New Territory, and surrounding Fort Bend and West Houston communities.

📞 CALL ACORB POOLS TODAY! 832 818 8584

Don't wait until a small problem turns into an expensive repair!

Contact us to schedule a pool and equipment inspection or request a personalized quote for weekly pool service.

🌐 Website: https://acorbpools.com

📧 Email: [email protected]

💙 ACORB POOLS — Keeping Your Pool Clean, Safe, and Ready to Enjoy!

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10/28/2026

💧 WHY DOES YOUR POOL KEEP NEEDING MORE CHLORINE? 7 HIDDEN CAUSES! 🏊‍♂️

You add chlorine to your swimming pool, the water looks crystal clear, and everything seems perfect. But just a few days later, your chlorine level is back near zero!

Sound familiar?

Many homeowners in the Houston area experience this frustrating problem. The natural reaction is to add more chlorine, but that isn't always the solution. In fact, repeatedly adding chemicals without understanding the underlying problem can waste money and sometimes make matters worse.

🔎 HERE ARE 7 HIDDEN REASONS YOUR POOL MAY BE CONSUMING TOO MUCH CHLORINE:

☀️ 1. INTENSE TEXAS SUNLIGHT
The sun's ultraviolet rays break down chlorine. Without enough stabilizer (CYA), your pool can lose chlorine surprisingly quickly, especially during hot, sunny days.

🧪 2. TOO MUCH STABILIZER
Here's something many pool owners don't realize: excessive cyanuric acid can make chlorine less effective. Regular use of stabilized chlorine tablets can gradually increase CYA levels, making proper water sanitation more difficult.

🦠 3. INVISIBLE ALGAE
Your pool doesn't have to turn green to have an algae problem! Microscopic algae and early growth on pool surfaces can consume chlorine before you notice anything unusual.

🏊 4. SWIMMERS, SUNSCREEN & BODY OILS
Every swimmer introduces organic contaminants into the water. After a busy weekend or pool party, chlorine demand can increase significantly, even if the water still looks perfectly clear.

💧 5. AMMONIA & HIDDEN CONTAMINANTS
Certain contaminants can react rapidly with chlorine, causing unusually high chlorine consumption. In some cases, large amounts of chlorine may disappear without producing a lasting free chlorine reading.

⚙️ 6. POOR WATER CIRCULATION
A dirty filter, inadequate pump operation, or poorly circulating water can create areas where algae and contaminants accumulate. Good circulation is essential for distributing chlorine and maintaining healthy pool water.

🔬 7. INCORRECT TESTING OR UNBALANCED WATER CHEMISTRY
Not all chlorine tests are equally accurate. Old test strips, improper testing methods, or unbalanced pH can lead to misleading results and unnecessary chemical additions.

💡 SO, WHAT'S THE SOLUTION?

The key is understanding WHY your pool is losing chlorine.

Sometimes you need additional chlorine. Other times, the real solution involves adjusting stabilizer levels, improving circulation, removing contaminants, or correcting water chemistry.

Adding more chemicals without identifying the problem can be expensive and ineffective.

💦 AT ACORB POOLS, WE DO MORE THAN JUST CLEAN POOLS!

Our experienced technicians understand pool water chemistry and know how to identify developing problems before they turn into costly repairs.

Our professional services include:

✅ Reliable weekly pool cleaning and maintenance
✅ Professional water testing and chemical balancing
✅ Pool equipment inspections and repairs
✅ Filter cleaning and circulation system maintenance
✅ Algae prevention and treatment
✅ Licensed & Insured
✅ BBB A+ Rated

📍 Proudly serving Katy, Sugar Land, Richmond, Missouri City, and surrounding Greater Houston communities.

📞 TIRED OF ADDING CHLORINE WITHOUT GETTING RESULTS?

Call or text ACORB POOLS today at (832) 818-8584!

We'll be happy to discuss your pool's problems and arrange a convenient inspection. If you're looking for reliable weekly pool service, we can evaluate your pool and equipment and provide a personalized quote.

You don't even need to be home for the inspection if your pool is accessible!

📞 Call or Text: (832) 818-8584\
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.acorbpools.com

💙 ACORB POOLS — Professional Care, Clear Water, Peace of Mind.

10/16/2026

💦 WHY IS YOUR POOL FILTER LEAKING WATER? HERE ARE 7 POSSIBLE CAUSES!

Have you noticed a puddle around your pool equipment? Water dripping from your filter? Or perhaps a small leak that only appears when the pool pump is running?

⚠️ Don't ignore it!

A leaking pool filter may start as a minor problem, but it could be a warning sign of damaged equipment. And because pool filters operate under pressure, some leaks can become dangerous.

🔎 Here are 7 possible causes:

1️⃣ Worn-out O-ring or gasket – The seal between filter tank sections may no longer be watertight.

2️⃣ Cracked filter housing – Aging equipment, freeze damage, or structural deterioration can cause leaks.

3️⃣ Faulty air relief valve – Water may escape from the valve on top of your filter.

4️⃣ Damaged drain plug – A deteriorated seal can cause water to collect beneath the filter.

5️⃣ Leaking pressure gauge – A damaged gauge or fitting can allow water to escape.

6️⃣ Loose or damaged plumbing connections – Sometimes the leak comes from a pipe or union rather than the filter itself.

7️⃣ Defective multiport valve – Worn seals or damaged components can cause leaks on certain sand and DE filters.

💡 THE GOOD NEWS?

Not every leaking pool filter needs to be replaced!

Sometimes a relatively simple component replacement can solve the problem. Other times, a more serious repair is necessary.

The important thing is identifying the actual cause before spending money on unnecessary equipment.

⚠️ If your filter is leaking, turn off the pump and avoid touching or opening the pressurized filter. Never attempt to tighten a filter clamp while the equipment is running.

🔧 LET ACORB POOLS TAKE A LOOK!

Our experienced technicians can inspect your pool equipment, identify the problem, and recommend the right repair.

We provide pool equipment repairs, filter cleaning, and professional weekly pool maintenance throughout Sugar Land, Katy, Richmond, Missouri City, Fort Bend County, and the greater Houston area.

📞 CALL US TODAY: (832) 818-8584

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Website: www.acorbpools.com

📍 16834 Aprilmont Dr., Sugar Land, TX 77498

🕘 Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM

✅ BBB Accredited — A+ Rated

✅ Licensed & Insured

📲 Have a leaking pool filter? Send us a message with your address, phone number, and a picture of the leak so we can help arrange an equipment inspection.

Don't let a small leak turn into a major repair!

ACORB POOLS
"We Don't Just Skim and Go!"

10/15/2026

🚨 WHY DOES YOUR POOL PUMP KEEP SHUTTING OFF? 💦

Does your pool pump run for a few minutes and suddenly stop? Does it restart later, only to shut off again?

⚠️ Don't ignore these warning signs! A pump that repeatedly shuts off may be experiencing a problem that could eventually lead to costly repairs.

🔧 7 COMMON REASONS YOUR POOL PUMP KEEPS SHUTTING OFF:

1️⃣ OVERHEATING MOTOR – Excessive heat can trigger the motor's automatic safety protection, causing it to shut down until it cools.

2️⃣ LOW WATER LEVEL OR AIR LEAKS – When the pump pulls in air instead of water, it may lose prime and trigger a protective shutdown.

3️⃣ CLOGGED FILTERS OR BASKETS – Leaves, dirt, and debris can restrict water circulation and cause equipment problems.

4️⃣ ELECTRICAL ISSUES – Faulty wiring, voltage problems, or tripping circuit breakers can interrupt pump operation.

5️⃣ WORN-OUT MOTOR COMPONENTS – Failing bearings, capacitors, or other internal components can cause overheating or prevent the motor from operating properly.

6️⃣ TIMER OR AUTOMATION MALFUNCTIONS – Incorrect settings or defective controls may turn your pump off unexpectedly.

7️⃣ VARIABLE-SPEED PUMP ERRORS – Modern pumps have electronic protection systems that may shut the equipment down when a fault is detected.

💡 HERE'S THE GOOD NEWS!

A pool pump that keeps shutting off doesn't necessarily need to be replaced. Sometimes a relatively simple repair can restore normal operation.

However, continuing to operate malfunctioning equipment can lead to additional damage, poor water circulation, cloudy water, and algae growth.

🔍 At ACORB POOLS, we don't just replace parts and hope for the best. We inspect your equipment, identify the cause of the problem, and recommend the appropriate solution.

✅ Pool pump diagnostics and repairs
✅ Motor and pump replacements
✅ Filter cleaning and repairs
✅ Circulation system troubleshooting
✅ Weekly pool cleaning and maintenance

⭐ BBB A+ Rated
✅ Licensed & Insured

💙 WE DON'T JUST SKIM AND GO!

📍 Proudly serving Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, Richmond, Fort Bend County, and surrounding communities.

📞 READY TO GET YOUR POOL PUMP RUNNING PROPERLY AGAIN?

Call or text us today at (832) 818-8584 to schedule a professional equipment diagnosis!

You can also send us a message with your name, pool address, phone number, and a brief description of the problem. Our team will help you arrange the next steps.

📞 Phone/Text: (832) 818-8584
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.acorbpools.com
📍 16834 Aprilmont Dr., Sugar Land, TX 77498
🕘 Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM

💦 Don't wait for a small pump problem to become an expensive repair. Contact ACORB POOLS today!

Comprehensive Weekly Service
Our services are designed to take the hassle out of pool ownership. Our comprehensive service includes cleaning, inspection, and necessary chemicals adjustments to keep your pool running smoothly.

10/12/2026

🏊‍♂️🔥 POOL HEATER NOT WORKING? DON'T LET THE COOLER WEATHER KEEP YOU OUT OF YOUR POOL!

As temperatures begin to drop across Houston, Katy, and Sugar Land, many homeowners are turning on their pool heaters for the first time in months — only to discover they're not working!

Does your pool heater refuse to start, shut off after a few minutes, or run without heating the water?

Before spending thousands of dollars on a replacement, you should know that many heater problems can be repaired.

🔧 8 COMMON REASONS YOUR POOL HEATER MAY NOT BE WORKING:

1️⃣ Low Water Flow – A dirty filter, clogged basket, or circulation problem can prevent the heater from operating.

2️⃣ Ignition Problems – A faulty igniter or ignition system may keep your heater from starting.

3️⃣ Dirty or Faulty Flame Sensor – Your heater may ignite briefly and then shut down.

4️⃣ Gas Supply Issues – Insufficient gas pressure or a malfunctioning gas valve can interfere with operation.

5️⃣ Temperature Sensor Problems – A defective sensor can cause incorrect readings or unexpected shutdowns.

6️⃣ Electrical or Control Board Failures – Damaged electronic components can prevent normal operation.

7️⃣ Heat Exchanger Problems – Scale buildup or corrosion can reduce heating performance and cause shutdowns.

8️⃣ Aging Equipment – Worn components may need repair, but that doesn't always mean replacing the entire heater.

💡 THE GOOD NEWS?

Not every pool heater problem requires an expensive repair!

Sometimes the problem isn't even the heater itself. A clogged filter, low water flow, or circulation issue may be preventing it from operating properly.

At ACORB POOLS, we believe in finding the actual problem before recommending repairs or replacement.

Our technicians can inspect your pool equipment, evaluate the problem, and explain your repair options.

✅ Experienced pool equipment technicians
✅ Licensed and insured
✅ BBB A+ rated business
✅ Professional diagnostics and repair recommendations
✅ Weekly pool maintenance and equipment services
✅ Serving Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, Fort Bend County, and surrounding communities

🚨 DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE NEXT COLD FRONT!

If your heater isn't working properly, now is the time to have it checked.

📞 CALL ACORB POOLS TODAY!

📱 Phone: (832) 818-8584
📧 Email: mailto:[email protected]
🌐 Website: www.acorbpools.com
📍 Address: 16834 Aprilmont Dr., Sugar Land, TX 77498

📩 MESSAGE US TODAY or call (832) 818-8584 to request a diagnostic appointment!

Please send us your name, pool address, phone number, and a brief description of the problem. If your heater displays an error code, let us know!

We'll help you take the next step toward getting your pool heater running again.

💦 ACORB POOLS — We Don't Just Skim and Go!

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10/06/2026

# Why Fall Leaves Can Damage More Than Just the Look of Your Pool

Fall in Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, and the surrounding areas may not bring the dramatic leaf season seen farther north, but falling leaves can still create serious problems for swimming pools.

A few leaves floating on the surface may seem harmless. But when leaves are allowed to accumulate in your pool, skimmers, or equipment, they can affect much more than appearance. They can interfere with circulation, increase chlorine demand, clog filtration systems, stain pool surfaces, and even put unnecessary stress on your pool equipment.

At ACORB POOLS, we believe understanding what is happening inside your pool is just as important as keeping it looking clean.

# # 1. Leaves Can Block Your Skimmer and Reduce Water Flow

Your skimmer is one of the main ways water travels from the pool to the pump and filtration system.

During the fall, leaves can quickly fill the skimmer basket. As the basket becomes packed with debris, water flow to the pump can decrease.

Reduced flow can lead to poor circulation and filtration. In severe cases, if the pump cannot get enough water, it may begin pulling air or lose prime.

A pool pump is designed to move water—not air.

That is why a completely packed skimmer basket should never be ignored.

# # 2. Leaves Can Also Fill the Pump Basket

Leaves and smaller debris that get past the skimmer may eventually reach the pump strainer basket.

When the pump basket becomes clogged, the pump has to work with restricted water flow.

You may notice:

Lower pressure from the return jets, weak circulation, air inside the pump basket, difficulty maintaining prime, or reduced overall filtration performance.

What looks like a simple leaf problem can therefore become a circulation problem.

# # 3. Decomposing Leaves Increase the Organic Load in Your Pool

Once leaves remain underwater, they begin to break down.

As organic material decomposes, your sanitizer has more material to oxidize.

That means some of the chlorine that should be protecting your pool from algae and microorganisms is instead being consumed by decomposing debris.

During periods of heavy leaf fall, chlorine demand can increase considerably—especially when large amounts of organic material are allowed to remain in the water.

Removing leaves promptly helps your pool chemistry work more efficiently.

# # 4. Leaves Can Contribute to Algae Problems

Leaves do not directly “cause” algae simply by falling into the water, but accumulated organic debris creates conditions that can make algae control more difficult.

Poor circulation, higher chlorine demand, dirty filters, debris collecting in corners, and decomposing organic material can all work together against you.

A pool can therefore go from looking perfectly clear to developing algae surprisingly quickly when circulation and sanitation are compromised.

This is another reason we always say:

**Pool chemicals alone don't keep a pool clean.**

Proper chemistry must work together with good circulation, filtration, brushing, vacuuming, and debris removal.

# # 5. Leaves Can Stain Pool Surfaces

Wet leaves sitting on steps, benches, tanning ledges, or the pool floor can release natural pigments and tannins as they decompose.

Over time, these substances may leave brown or yellow discoloration on plaster and other pool surfaces.

The longer the leaves remain in contact with the surface, the greater the possibility of staining.

Removing leaves quickly is much easier than trying to remove a stain later.

# # 6. Your Filter Has to Work Harder

Everything that stays in the pool eventually has to be removed somehow.

Smaller particles from deteriorating leaves can travel through the circulation system and end up in the filter.

As debris accumulates, the filter becomes dirtier and water flow can gradually decrease.

Depending on the type of filter and the amount of debris entering the pool, fall conditions may mean your filter needs attention sooner than expected.

A clean filter is essential for good circulation and clear water.

# # 7. A Full Skimmer Basket Can Become a Bigger Problem Very Quickly

This is particularly important after windy days or storms.

A skimmer that was relatively clean in the morning can become completely packed with leaves within hours.

For homeowners with trees close to their pools, checking the skimmer basket more frequently during periods of heavy leaf fall is one of the easiest ways to help protect the circulation system.

It takes only a few minutes—but it can help prevent a much bigger problem.

# # Fall Pool Care Is About More Than Removing Leaves

Keeping leaves out of your pool isn't just about making the water look attractive.

It helps protect:

Water circulation. Filtration. Chlorine efficiency. Pool surfaces. Pump performance. Overall water quality.

At ACORB POOLS, our weekly pool service goes beyond simply removing debris from the surface. We inspect the pool, maintain proper water chemistry, empty baskets, brush and vacuum as needed, monitor circulation, and check the equipment for signs of potential problems.

Because a clean-looking pool isn't necessarily a properly maintained pool.

We Don't Just Skim and Go.

# # # Need Help Keeping Your Pool Clean and Properly Balanced This Fall?

Whether you need reliable weekly pool service, filter cleaning, equipment repair, water chemistry assistance, or help diagnosing a circulation problem, ACORB POOLS is ready to help.

📞 **Call:** (832) 818-8584
✉️ **Email:** [email protected]
🌐 **Website:** www.acorbpools.com
📍 **16834 Aprilmont Dr., Sugar Land, TX 77498**

Serving pool owners throughout Sugar Land, Katy, Houston, Fort Bend County, Harris County, and surrounding areas.

Contact us today for a free pool service quote.

09/26/2026

# Why Is My Pool Pump Losing Prime? 7 Common Causes

A pool pump that keeps losing prime is more than just an inconvenience. Without proper water flow, your pool cannot circulate chemicals effectively, filter debris properly, or operate equipment such as heaters and salt systems the way it should.

If your pump basket is filling with air, the pump struggles to start, or you notice weak flow from the return jets, the pump may be losing prime.

Here are seven of the most common reasons this happens.

# # 1. The Pool Water Level Is Too Low

One of the easiest problems to overlook is the water level.

If the water drops below the proper level of the skimmer opening, the skimmer can begin pulling air instead of water. Once air enters the suction line, the pump may lose prime.

Ideally, the pool water should normally sit around the middle of the skimmer opening.

During hot Houston summers, evaporation can lower the water level surprisingly quickly.

If your pump starts making unusual noises or you see air entering the pump basket, check the water level first.

# # 2. The Skimmer Basket Is Clogged

Leaves, pine needles, grass, insects, and other debris can quickly fill a skimmer basket.

When the basket becomes heavily clogged, water flow to the pump becomes restricted. The pump may begin struggling to pull enough water and can eventually lose prime.

Regularly emptying the skimmer basket is one of the simplest ways to protect your circulation system.

The pump basket should also be checked, since debris can accumulate there as well.

# # 3. The Pump Lid O-Ring Is Damaged or Dry

The O-ring underneath the pump lid creates an airtight seal.

If the O-ring becomes:

- Dry
- Cracked
- Flattened
- Dirty
- Improperly seated

air may be pulled into the pump while it is operating.

This type of air leak may not necessarily leak water outward, which can make it difficult to notice.

Cleaning and lubricating the O-ring with a pool-safe lubricant can sometimes solve the problem. If the O-ring is worn or damaged, it should be replaced.

# # 4. There Is an Air Leak on the Suction Side

A suction-side air leak is one of the most common reasons a pool pump repeatedly loses prime.

The suction side includes the plumbing between the pool and the pump.

Air can enter through:

- Loose plumbing connections
- Cracked fittings
- Damaged unions
- Pump drain plugs
- Valve seals
- Cracked pipes
- Worn O-rings

Because these pipes operate under suction, they may pull air inward without showing an obvious water leak.

One common sign is air bubbles visible through the pump lid or bubbles coming from the pool return jets.

# # 5. A Valve Is Closed, Partially Closed, or Malfunctioning

Pool plumbing systems often contain several valves controlling water from the skimmer, main drain, spa, cleaner, or other suction lines.

If one of these valves is accidentally closed or positioned incorrectly, the pump may not receive enough water.

Internal valve components can also wear out and allow air into the plumbing.

If your pump started losing prime after someone adjusted the pool valves, valve position should be one of the first things checked.

# # 6. The Pump Impeller Is Clogged

The impeller is the internal component that moves water through the pump.

Small debris can sometimes pass through the baskets and become lodged inside the impeller.

Common examples include:

- Leaves
- Pine needles
- Hair
- Small seeds
- Organic debris

A partially clogged impeller can significantly reduce water flow.

The pump may still run, but circulation becomes weak and the pump may have difficulty maintaining prime.

Cleaning an impeller normally requires opening part of the pump, so homeowners who are unfamiliar with pool equipment may want to have a professional technician inspect it.

# # 7. The Pump or Plumbing Has a Mechanical Problem

Sometimes the problem goes beyond a clogged basket or worn O-ring.

Possible issues include:

- Cracked pump housing
- Damaged pump lid
- Failed shaft seal
- Loose plumbing connections
- Underground suction-line leaks
- Damaged valves
- Improper pump installation

Older equipment can also develop small cracks that allow air to enter the circulation system.

Finding these problems often requires systematic testing by an experienced pool technician.

# # How Do You Know Your Pool Pump Is Losing Prime?

Common warning signs include:

- Air visible inside the pump basket
- Pump basket not filling completely with water
- Weak water flow from return jets
- Bubbles coming from pool returns
- Pump making unusually loud or inconsistent noises
- Pump struggling to restart after shutting off
- Filter pressure lower than normal
- Heater or salt system displaying flow errors

A properly operating pool pump should normally maintain a strong, consistent flow of water.

# # Don't Ignore a Pump That Keeps Losing Prime

Running a pool pump without enough water can damage the equipment.

Pool pumps depend on circulating water for cooling and lubrication. If the pump repeatedly runs dry or partially dry, internal components can overheat and fail.

What begins as a small air leak or worn O-ring can eventually become a much more expensive repair.

# # Need Help Finding the Problem?

If your pool pump keeps losing prime, ACORB POOLS can help identify the cause and determine the proper repair.

We inspect pumps, skimmers, valves, plumbing connections, filters, and other components of the circulation system to find the source of the problem rather than simply treating the symptom.

ACORB POOLS
“We Don’t Just Skim and Go.”

Call or text: 832-818-8584
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.acorbpools.com

If your pump is pulling air, losing prime, or struggling to circulate water properly, contact ACORB POOLS and let us diagnose the problem before it leads to more expensive equipment damage.

Comprehensive Weekly Service
Our services are designed to take the hassle out of pool ownership. Our comprehensive service includes cleaning, inspection, and necessary chemicals adjustments to keep your pool running smoothly.

09/18/2026

💦 Air Bubbles Coming From Your Pool Returns? Here’s What They May Be Telling You

A few small bubbles coming from your pool return jets may not seem like a big deal. But if you’re seeing a constant stream of air bubbles while the pump is running, your pool may be trying to tell you something.

In a properly operating pool system, water should circulate through the pump, filter, and return lines with very little air entering the system.

Persistent bubbles often mean that air is being pulled into the plumbing somewhere before the pump.

Sometimes the cause is simple. Other times, it can point to a plumbing or equipment problem that should be addressed before it becomes more expensive.

🔹 1. Your Pool Water Level May Be Too Low

This is one of the first things to check.

If the water level drops too low, the skimmer can begin pulling air along with water. That air travels through the pump and eventually appears as bubbles coming from the return jets.

As a general rule, the water level should normally be around the middle of the skimmer opening.

During Houston’s hot weather, evaporation can lower the water level surprisingly quickly.

If you hear your skimmer making a sucking or gurgling sound, check the water level first.

🔹 2. Your Skimmer Basket May Be Clogged

Leaves, grass, insects, pine needles, and other debris can accumulate inside the skimmer basket.

If the basket becomes heavily clogged, the pump may struggle to receive enough water.

This can reduce circulation and, in some situations, contribute to air entering the system.

The pump basket should also be checked regularly because debris there can restrict water flow as well.

🔹 3. The Pump Lid O-Ring May Be Worn

Under the clear pump lid is a rubber O-ring that helps create an airtight seal.

Over time, that O-ring can become:

• Dry
• Cracked
• Flattened
• Stretched
• Dirty
• Improperly seated

Even a very small gap can allow the pump to suck air into the system.

And here is something many homeowners don’t realize:

You may NOT see water leaking from this type of problem.

Because the pump is creating suction, air can be pulled inward instead of water leaking outward.

If you see a large air pocket underneath the pump lid while the system is running, the pump lid and O-ring are good places to investigate.

🔹 4. You Could Have a Suction-Side Leak

Air bubbles can also indicate a leak somewhere between the pool and the pump.

Possible problem areas include:

• Valves
• Unions
• Fittings
• Drain plugs
• Plumbing connections
• Underground suction lines

These leaks can be difficult to identify because they may not produce an obvious puddle of water.

Instead, when the pump is running, air gets pulled into the plumbing.

Some common warning signs include:

✔️ Persistent bubbles from the return jets
✔️ Air underneath the pump lid
✔️ Difficulty priming the pump
✔️ Inconsistent water flow
✔️ The pump losing prime after shutting off

🔹 5. Check Pump Drain Plugs and Fittings

Pool pumps usually have one or more drain plugs.

If one is loose, damaged, or has a worn O-ring, air can enter the system.

The same can happen around threaded fittings and unions near the pump.

Again, everything may look perfectly dry because the system is sucking air inward rather than leaking water outward.

🔹 6. The Skimmer Weir Door Could Be Causing Problems

The small swinging door at the front of the skimmer is called the weir.

It helps debris move into the skimmer and keeps it from floating back into the pool.

If the weir becomes stuck, damaged, or improperly positioned, it can restrict water entering the skimmer.

Combined with a low water level, that may cause the skimmer to begin pulling air.

🔹 7. Persistent Air Can Lead to Bigger Problems

Air bubbles themselves are usually a symptom.

The bigger concern is what is causing them.

If a pump continually pulls air, it may not circulate water efficiently.

Poor circulation can affect:

• Filtration
• Chlorine distribution
• Water chemistry
• Algae prevention
• Overall water quality

And if a pump repeatedly runs without enough water, it can eventually damage the equipment.

⚠️ A Few Bubbles or a Constant Stream?

A few bubbles when the system first starts may be completely normal.

Air can temporarily enter the system after:

• Cleaning the pump basket
• Cleaning the filter
• Opening plumbing connections
• Performing equipment repairs

Once the pump is fully primed, however, those bubbles should normally disappear.

A continuous stream of bubbles deserves further investigation.

💡 Don’t Just Watch the Bubbles — Find Out Where the Air Is Coming From

The solution may be as simple as adding water or cleaning a basket.

But it could also be a failing pump lid seal, leaking valve, damaged fitting, or suction-side plumbing problem.

Catching the issue early can help prevent poor circulation and potentially more expensive equipment repairs later.

📞 Seeing constant air bubbles from your pool returns?

Don’t wait for a small circulation problem to become a bigger repair.

Contact ACORB Pools and let us take a closer look at your system. Call us at 832 818 8584

We don’t just look at whether your pool appears clean. We pay attention to the equipment, circulation, and water chemistry that keep the entire pool working properly.

🌐 www.acorbpools.com
📧 [email protected]

ACORB POOLS
“We Don’t Just Skim and Go.”