Thanks for the follow up. I'm pretty happy with our pump (overall) as well. I can live with the air in the pump lid - it doesn't seem to be a problem.
To close the loop on this thread, the Hayward pump turned out to be a great investment once the leads were sealed. There is still a void in the pump strainer basket if running on low speed, but no air into the filter. Once the speed hits a high enough flow, no void in the strainer basket.
I did see a benefit on my electric bill as well.
Thanks for the follow up. I'm pretty happy with our pump (overall) as well. I can live with the air in the pump lid - it doesn't seem to be a problem.
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