Partially Clogged Pool Pipe

Causes and Symptoms of Clogged Pool Pipe

• When a pool is improperly and infrequently cleaned, the automatic pool pump becomes overwhelmed with the debris and suffers a clog. When the clog occurs, the pool doesn’t become adequately clean, resulting in large amounts of debris and cloudy water, even if the pool pumps seem to be running. A clog will also cause difficulty in draining the pool, although there may be some water flow if the pipe is only partially clogged.

Unclogging the Pipe

• Remove the clog yourself by first locating and opening the pump assembly’s lid. This is generally found along the pool’s deck. Turn the valve inside the assembly to shut off the water. Insert a metal putty knife or flat screwdriver under the pool’s drain plug to allow the water to completely empty from the pool. Depending on the pool’s size, this could take anywhere from several minutes to hours. Once the pool is completely empty, locate the grill covering the drain. Remove the grill and insert a garden hose fitted with an unclog adapter, which are available at pool supply stores, as far as it will go. Affix the hose’s other end onto an outdoor spigot and turn on the water. Allow the water to run through the pipes until the clogged debris and leaves surface. Once this occurs, immediately turn off the water and remove the garden hose. Pick up all the leaves and debris from the pool floor before introducing any more water.

When to Hire a Professional

• Contact a professional to remove the clog if there is still an issue with the automatic pool pump after attempting to remove the clog yourself. The professional will use one or more of several options to remove the clog, for example, a carbon dioxide gun. The gun is inserted into the drain and a blast of air at around 350 psi hits the clog in an attempt to dislodge it. This type of gun is only intended for use by a professional to prevent possible injury or damage to the pool and corresponding plumbing.

Prevent Future Clogs

• Examine and replace any damaged strainer baskets to ensure the leaves and other debris don’t cause future clogs. Clean out excess leaves and debris from the pool manually before the automatic pool cleaner turns on to prevent overwhelming it, resulting in a major clog. Install an in-line leaf basket on the pool pump. The basket catches any larger debris, including leaves and rocks, before they clog the pump basket and pipes. Prune any trees hanging over the pool to prevent falling leaves and debris before they reach the water.