How to troubleshoot Motor Air Lock Removal issues at home

Quick answer (read this first)

• Turn off the motor’s power supply immediately.
• Locate the priming plug or valve on the pump casing.
• Release trapped air by slowly opening the plug/valve.
• Refill the pump casing with water until full.
• Seal the plug/valve and restart the motor cautiously.

Safety first

• Always turn off the main power supply to the water motor before touching it.
• Do not attempt any electrical repairs; focus only on the mechanical air bleeding.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and potential sharp edges.
• Ensure the area around the motor is dry to prevent any electrical hazards.
• Do not operate the motor if it’s continuously running dry; it can cause damage.

Tools you may need

• Wrench or plier (to loosen priming plug/valve)
• Bucket or old cloth (to catch spilled water)
• Water hose or jug (for refilling the pump casing)

Step-by-step

Step 1

Turn Off Power: Immediately switch off the main power supply to your water motor at the circuit breaker or dedicated switch. This is a critical safety measure.

Step 2

Locate Priming Plug: Identify the priming plug or valve, usually a brass or plastic cap, on top of the pump casing. This is where water is typically added.

Step 3

Release Trapped Air: Slowly unscrew the priming plug or open the valve counter-clockwise. Listen for a hissing sound of air escaping; water will eventually trickle out as air is released.

Step 4

Refill Pump Casing: If water flows steadily without air, or if no water emerged initially, pour water into the priming hole using a hose or jug until the pump casing is completely full.

Step 5

Seal and Restore Power: Tightly screw the priming plug back into place or close the valve securely. Then, restore power to the motor.

Step 6

Test and Monitor: Turn on the motor and observe if the water flow returns to normal. If the motor still struggles or the issue persists after a few minutes, turn it off and repeat the process, or consider calling a professional.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting to turn off the power supply before starting work on the motor.
• Not completely filling the pump casing with water after releasing the air.
• Tightening the priming plug too much, which can damage the threads, or too little, causing leaks.
• Ignoring persistent air lock issues, which can lead to motor overheating and premature failure.
• Attempting electrical repairs instead of just bleeding air.

When to call a professional

• If the motor frequently gets air-locked despite your troubleshooting efforts.
• If you hear unusual grinding, squealing, or extremely loud noises coming from the motor.
• If you notice significant water leakage around the pump seals or other motor components.
• If the motor does not start, trips the breaker, or continues to struggle even after successful air lock removal.
• If you are uncomfortable or unsure about performing any of the steps yourself.