Pool problem - pipe leak unlikely?

[Terratrader]

I have a 4 x 8 x 1,5 pool, installed a variable speed pump some years ago and very satisfied since I already recovered the cost from the strongly reduced use of electricity compared to regular pumps. But I seem to have a problem. I had the pump tested by a qualified pump guy and it works fine, just as I thought. However it is drawing air. I tested the valves and pipes with incense smoke to see if it got sucked in while the pump was working but no luck. At first I thought I have a leak in the pool but since the water level hasn't gone down at all, that can not be the case. I am looking for a professional to help me. The guy from Rickards construction in Pattaya hates me because I ask too many questions and even deleted me on Line recently. Anyone know a professional who can help me out? I'm at Huay Yai.

[Bagwain]

Can you see air in the lint basket, If not then why do you think it is sucking air?

[Imd8ta]

Agree with Bagwain. Check the basket on the pump suction side for air and forget the smoke test. Isolating parts of the system via valves will show leaks at connections that are pressurized.

[Terratrader]

On 9/30/2024 at 10:54 AM, Bagwain said:

Can you see air in the lint basket, If not then why do you think it is sucking air?

 

Obviously there is air in the basket. It never fills up with water since this problem started. Whenever I turn on the pump, the water in the pump does not make it to the filter. Also, there doesn't seem to be pool water moving into the pump whereas it clearly works. I did a few tests and found the pump itself is fine, this confirmed by a pump specialist.

[Terratrader]

On 9/30/2024 at 11:05 AM, Imd8ta said:

Agree with Bagwain. Check the basket on the pump suction side for air and forget the smoke test. Isolating parts of the system via valves will show leaks at connections that are pressurized.

 

I think the problem is the pipe that comes from the pool, not the tank, but honestly, I am not specialized enough to be sure.

[Bagwain]

On 10/3/2024 at 2:41 PM, Terratrader said:

 

I think the problem is the pipe that comes from the pool, not the tank, but honestly, I am not specialized enough to be sure.

PM sent.

[mahjongguy]

There are probably 1 or 2 backflow prevention valves in your system.  Consider a pumproom valve configuration that might prove or disprove proper function. In our village of new homes most pools were built with 100 baht check valves that failed within a month. The builder was eventually compelled to replace all of them with 1,000 baht models that work perfectly.