Pump basket

The pump basket sits under the clear lid on the pump. It catches small leaves, bugs, and bits that get past the skimmer basket. A full basket starves the pump, which hurts flow and can cause noise.

Check it every week, and after storms. Turn the pump off, open the lid, lift out the basket, empty it, and replace it. Check the lid O-ring before you close the lid. A cracked basket lets debris reach the impeller, and you should replace it.