Why your filter loses pressure (and how to fix it)
Low pressure is not a mystery. It’s a warning. When flow drops, filtration suffers, heaters misfire, and clarity slips. Fix the cause fast and your system snaps back to full performance.
What low pressure really means
Pressure below your normal clean baseline signals restricted flow before the filter. Water is not reaching the tank efficiently, so debris bypasses capture and equipment works harder for less result.
The most common causes
Start here. These account for most pressure losses.
-Clogged skimmer baskets or pump strainer
Leaves, pine needles, and hair block intake. Flow collapses instantly.
-Dirty filter media
Cartridges loaded with oils and fines choke circulation. Sand and DE can channel or cake.
-Air leaks on the suction side
Dry o rings, loose unions, or cracked lids pull air and break prime.
-Low water level
Water below mid skimmer draws air. Pressure drops and the pump cavitates.
-Collapsed or blocked lines
Old flex pipe or debris in the suction line limits volume to the filter.
Fast checks you can do today
Restore flow in minutes.
Empty skimmer baskets and pump strainer
Top off water to mid-skimmer
Inspect lid o ring and unions. Lubricate and reseat
Backwash or rinse cartridges if pressure rose 8–10 psi before dropping
Look for bubbles in the pump lid while running
Tip: record your clean pressure after service. That number is your baseline.
How to fix it the right way
Permanent fixes protect equipment and clarity.
Deep clean cartridges or replace worn media
Recharge DE grids properly. avoid overfilling
Tighten suction fittings and replace brittle o rings
Pressure test lines if pressure keeps falling
Set variable speed RPMs that meet heater and SWG minimum flow
When to call a pro
Do not wait if you see:
Recurring air in the pump
Pressure that drops again within days
Heater errors tied to low flow
Uneven suction across skimmers
A targeted inspection finds the restriction without guesswork.
Enjoy your pool stress-free. >>>
Let our experts handle the rest.
Enjoy your pool stress-free. >>> Let our experts handle the rest.
Book a flow and filter reset.
We restore pressure, clean media, seal air leaks, verify RPMs, and lock in your baseline.
