Before you begin: what should normal filter-pump flow look like?

A gentle but continuous return flow does not necessarily mean that the pump is too weak or faulty. If your filter pump was supplied as part of a Bestway pool set, it is designed to provide regular filtration for that pool when installed, operated and maintained as instructed.

Pool filter pumps are designed to circulate water steadily over several hours rather than produce a powerful return jet, so the flow may feel gentler than expected. The pump rating shown in gallons or litres refers to the amount of water circulated per hour, not the total amount of water the pump can support.

How long should the filter run for?

Run the filter pump long enough to circulate the pool’s full water capacity, following the operating guidance for that particular pool and pump. For Bestway pools, this is generally 6-8 hours.

The approximate filtration-cycle time can be calculated as: 

• Pool water capacity ÷ pump system flow rate* = running time in hours.

*Use the system flow rate, rather than only the headline pump flow rate, wherever both figures are available.

A filter alone will not keep pool water clean

A pool filter pump circulates the water and passes it through the filter cartridge, helping to capture dirt, leaves and other small particles. However, filtration alone does not remove all bacteria, algae or other microorganisms.

Pool water needs to be treated with suitable sanitising chemicals, such as chlorine, and regularly tested to maintain the correct pH and sanitiser levels. The pump and water-treatment products work together to keep the water clear, hygienic and safe to use. Find out how to treat the water in your Bestway pool.

Bestway pool filter pump water flow troubleshooting

If the water flow has noticeably decreased, stopped completely, or is not circulating, follow the checks below.

1. Switch off and unplug the pump

Before removing the filter cartridge, opening the pump or disconnecting any hoses, switch off the pump and unplug it from the power supply.

2. Check the filter cartridge

A dirty or worn filter cartridge can restrict the water flow.

Remove the cartridge and inspect it carefully. Rinse away any dirt or debris using clean water. If the cartridge is heavily discoloured, damaged, misshapen or difficult to clean, replace it with the correct cartridge for your pump.

3. Check the stopper caps, strainers and debris screens

Make sure any stopper caps used during filling or maintenance of the pool have been removed before operating the pump.

Check the pool’s inlet and outlet strainers, debris screens and any strainer basket fitted to your pump. Remove any leaves, dirt or other debris and rinse the components thoroughly with clean water.

4. Check the hoses and connections

Inspect the hoses between the pool and the filter pump.

Make sure:

• The hoses are not kinked, twisted or crushed.
• Nothing is blocking the inside of the hoses.
• Hose clamps and connections are secure but not overtightened.
• The hoses are connected to the correct inlet and outlet ports.

Disconnect and flush any blocked hose with clean water before reconnecting it.

5. Purge trapped air from the system

Air trapped inside the pump or hoses can reduce or interrupt the water flow.

Follow the air-purging instructions for your particular filter-pump model. Where an air-purge valve is fitted, release the trapped air until water begins to appear, then close the valve securely.

6. Inspect the pump and connections for leaks

Check the hoses, seals, connection valves and pump housing for leaking water.

Make sure all connections are correctly assembled and that the washers and seals are present, clean and undamaged. Replace any damaged component with the correct part for your pump model.

7. Restart the pump and check the flow

Reconnect the pump, restore the water flow and restart it according to the instructions for your pump.

Allow the pump to run briefly and check for a steady flow of water returning to the pool. Remember that the return flow does not need to feel like a powerful jet for the filtration system to be operating.