Possible Impeller Problem

[godstreasures1]

How do you know if your impeller is clogged. The reason I am asking is because I keep loosing pressure. If I backwash the pressure is fine for about 20 min. Also, when I try to vacuum I lose pressure after a few seconds. I can't find a leak anywhere. Please help.

[waste]

A clogged impeller would effect every operation. Sounds like the filter may be clogged Many pumps have the impeller reachable from within the housing (PLEASE remember to make sure the pump won't turn on if you reach your hand in there!!!!) Any chance of telling us the pump model and filter?

[godstreasures1]

Sorry I have a 1.5 hp motor and a sand filter not sure what size it is the big blue ball from Baqua Pure. It has the 7 position multi port valve on top. I am just not sure what is going on with it.

[godstreasures1]

Do you think I should change the sand in the filter. I haven't changed it in 3 years?

[Poconos]

Only reason to change sand is if it is gooped up beyond hope for some reason. Some more questions:
What do you use for a sanitizer?
Are you losing pressure (as indicated by the gauge) or suction? If the filter is plugging then the pressure will go up and suction down.
Try the filter in Recirculate mode and see if things are stable. That bypasses the filter.
Al

[wrinkleigh]

I have had this problem EVERY year right after opening. With my pool -- I never close it like I should, so when I open it back up -- it usally takes a LONG time to get it in shape.

So I start beaching -- and running the pump. After about 20-30 minutes there is almost NO circulation or suction going on -- so I go out - backwash/rinse then wait another 20-30 minutes. Eventually I get to every few hours, then the problem cures itself. I go through this for about 2 days, then once the water starts clearning up, it normal circulation / flow return for good.

I cant tell you how many times I have asked this same question here, and no one really understood what I meant. Everyone suggested that I might have a problem with my pump, impeller, skimmer, return lines -- nope all were checked and fine. It just happens to me every single year. Just one of those things, for me anyway.

[CarlD]

Do you not drain your filter at the end of the season, or the pump? Think about all that stagnant water ALL fall, winter and spring in there, and in the pump, too--gelatinous mass.

When I close I drain my filter, drain my pump and put the pump in the basement.

No filter/pump problems in the spring.