Sorry to hear you are having issues!

From your post, I think you have 2 issues going on at this point:

1. Your SWCG will produce hydrogen bubbles that will come out of the return(s) while the unit is generating (see if the bubbles lessen when the unit isn't producing)

2. You also seem to have a suction side leak. The pump lid is often the culprit, check to see if the lid is fully secure and the gasket/ o-ring in good shape, lubed and clear of debris. There is also the chance that the skimmer weir is stuck closed or you don't have enough water in your pool. Another possibility is an air leak in the plumbing coming into the pump - a valve or union o-ring gone bad and allowing air in. Worst case scenario is a broken suction pipe underground.

There are a lot of folks, besides myself, here that can help you narrow down the leak. All you need do is tell us what you find and we'll advise