How's Your O-Ring?
First let's talk about your baskets. 
They're located in the pool skimmer (the big hole in the pool wall at the waterline) and over at the pool motor pump housing. They catch the big stuff before it jams up the pool motor impeller (the enclosed fan blade that moves the water). Cleaning these baskets improves filter performance and catches the icky stuff for you. So it's a good idea to empty them. LOOK FIRST before reaching in with your bare hand unless you're immune to snake venom and rodent bites. Seriously. You can use a coat hanger or stick with a hook to lift out the baskets. Another suggestion - TURN OFF your pump and pump timer first. No need to lose your fingers or have something rocket toward your face due to pressure in a line.
Still wondering about your o-ring?
OK. So the pump switch and pump timer are off and you've already emptied the skimmer basket. Go over to the pump. The pump basket is not always easy to see. Look for the plate-size lid by the pump and unscrew it. You may need a wrench. Pool stores carry some specialized pump lid wrenches. But if you've done things right before, this lid should only be hand tight. So there is your o-ring! It's the rubber ring fitted into a groove on the bottom of the lid or on the pump housing. I've read that this should be lubricated frequently. Hey, if the mood strikes, do it. DON'T use Vaseline (TM) or other petroleum products. DO use a silicone product. It is inexpensive and very little is needed. After emptying the pump basket hand-tighten the pump lid. If there is the tiniest air leak the pump won't prime (draw water). After starting the pump and "catching prime" look for a small air relief valve on top of the filter tank. Use this valve to remove the air that has gotten into the system.
Was your o-ring damaged or swollen? If so replace it. This makes it easier for the pump to catch prime and for you to open the lid for basket cleaning.
Submitted by:
Litchfield Park Pool Service & Supply
Litchfield Park, AZ
www.aquavalue.com/litchfieldpark
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