thx Pat. I went out and opened the top valve on the filter and air did escape. Even though I am going to waste, does this mean that there is def. an air leak problem on the suction side? Should I leave this open when going to waste? closed? does it matter? sorry - i'm trying everything here. I have already checked the oring around the basket (several times) and it seems ok. And I don't hear anything on the suction side as far as leaking or bubbles when I turn the pump off. ...and the reading on the presure gauge just sits at 4-5 psi -does this mean anything? thanks again...