Test for Suction Side Air Leaks

The easiest test method is to use soapy water using simply water and dish soap. Suction side leaks lead to common issues like difficulty priming the pump, air bubbles, or low pressure and/or water flow. We list an alternative option for troubleshooting suction side air leaks.

Soapy Water Method:

  1. Pour small amount or larger dollop of dish soap into a cup.
  2. Fill the cup three-quarters of the way full with water
  3. Agitate water to create a good amount of foamy bubbles.
  4. With the pump running, scoop out foam from the cup and hold it to any area suspected plumbing leaks. If an air leak is present, the foam will be drawn into the problem spot.

Smoke Method (using pictured smoke pencil):

  1. Turn on the pump
  2. Use any device that would safely emit smoke. Make sure the smoke is thick enough so it is visible. If it is windy, this method would not be preferred.
  3. Hold the smoking end directly under or next two (close as possible without buring anything) all the various seams of your suction side plumbing. If an air leak is present, you should see an obvious pulling of the smoke column.
  4. Mark any problems areas showing signs of an air leak, address as needed.
Earl Walker