Does water pump can pump air?

[Yoshimura]

I'm wondering how the water pump could prime itself when the pump is higher than the water tank. Can it pump air?

What is the proper procedure to prime it?

[booster]

Originally Posted by Yoshimura

I'm wondering how the water pump could prime itself when the pump is higher than the water tank. Can it pump air?

What is the proper procedure to prime it?

Yes, they normally can. I think most are rated for about 5' of lift when dry.

They do tend to lose some ability over time as the valves and check valves get older and don't close as well or as quickly, though.

[Brad1998RD]

If it's a self priming pump there should be no problem sucking up the water. Unless there is an issue with the diaphragm or air leaks in the line.

[Cokkie]

I have the problem every time I winterize. Yesterday actually, I can’t get it to pump. Last time I took it in .Any ideas? It will Spurt a bit but not every take it. I tried surging the water as I fill it.

[Peder_y2k]

Be sure the water faucets are open eliminating trapped air, then activate the pump. If no go, then pump or suction line are compromised

[Roadtreker357]

After winterizing (we just blow out with air) the pump will sometimes not prime readily. What generally work is to connect a hose to the city water inlet and run water to all hot/cold faucets and the toilet to eliminate air on the pressure side of the pump. Also put some water into the fresh water tank. After doing this the pump has always pumped OK. If you want to put water in the inside fresh water tank, that will put the water inlet higher than the pump and might help too.