Getting Calcium Levels Right

[FormerBromineUser]

That looks pretty good, however, I wouldn't bother testing CYA again for at least 4 days or so. It takes a while before it will show up accurately on a test and you definitely don't want to overshoot on either CYA or CH.

[jmarcum]

On a completely unrelated note, maybe I should start a new thread but... I'm noticing that two of the jets that send water back in to the pool from the filter don't look right. Typically the water entering the pool is almost undetectable however from two of the jets the water appears to be mixed with a lot of air. I hadn't noticed this before today, of course I also haven't been looking at the pool over the winter. Could this be indicative of some type of issue? Here's a video of what's happening. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJDn1QeIIns

[FormerBromineUser]

Oh my. That's a lot of air.... Is there any air in your pump basket? Have you lubed your o-ring lately? Do you have a bleed-valve on your filter? I am not very good at pump stuff and will see if I can get someone to chime-in.

[jmarcum]

There is something that appears to be a pressure release valve on the top of the filter. I'm not sure what O-ring you are talking about but I've not lubed anything.

[FormerBromineUser]

Well, I would try the pressure relief valve for sure. I always turn mine on after I get any air into the system, usually after I clean the pump basket.

The O-ring is inbetween the pump basket and its clear cover. As they start to get old, some pool lube (not vasoline), helps. Eventually they need to be replaced so that you can get a good seal.

[jmarcum]

Thanks, I will try those two things when I get home today. I have some food grade lube that is used to lube the seals on my margarita machine, I'll confirm it's not petroleum based and use that. LOL

[swimdaddy]

Its normal to have some air on the pressure side on start up and after depressurizing to clean out the basket, but without a continuous feed of air it should eventually stop as the air is pushed out. If the air bubbles are continuous, then you have air being sucked in on the suction side, either at a fitting from the skimmer to the pump or the pump basket. You should be seeing air bubbles in the pump basket. The O-ring is the first thing to check, then check all you fittings and lines for air leaks.

Your pump could also be cavitating if there is a constriction or blockage on the suction side. Make sure the skimmer basket is clean and valves are all open, and the lines are clear of debris.