Pool Water Is Not Circulating
No circulation means no filtration and no chemical distribution. In summer heat a pool can begin turning within a couple of days of losing flow, so this is one problem worth acting on immediately.
Likely Causes
Pump not running
Breaker, timer, schedule, capacitor or drive fault — the pump is simply off.
Valve in the wrong position
A diverter left closed after service will stop flow entirely on that circuit.
Severely clogged filter
Restriction high enough to effectively stop flow while the pump keeps running.
Clogged impeller or basket
Blocked suction prevents the pump from moving water even though the motor spins.
Air-locked system
Trapped air after service can prevent the pump from establishing flow.
Blocked suction or return line
Debris or root intrusion in underground plumbing.
What You Can Safely Check
- Confirm the pump is actually running and the basket is full of water
- Verify every valve is in its normal position
- Check filter pressure and clean baskets
- Feel the returns for flow
When to Call a Professional
If the pump runs but no water moves, stop the pump and call. Running dry destroys the shaft seal in minutes and can damage the motor.