Tiny air bubbles sticking to my skin.

[Megan Lawson]

After a few minutes of swimming, I notice tiny air bubbles sticking to my skin and even collecting around the pool returns. The water’s clear, and the pump seems okay. Is this a sign of micro-leaks, cavitation, or something else going on in the system?

 

[William Walker]

I’ve seen that happen too. Usually it means air is getting into the system, maybe from a loose fitting or a pump that’s not running efficiently. Check all your pipe connections to make sure they’re tight.

 

[Alexander Harris]

Those tiny bubbles can be tricky! From my experience, it’s often just trapped air trying to find its way out. I’d suggest checking your pump pressure and any fittings for leaks or air pockets

 

[John Michael]

After a few minutes of swimming, I notice tiny air bubbles sticking to my skin and even collecting around the pool returns. The water’s clear, and the pump seems okay. Is this a sign of micro-leaks, cavitation, or something else going on in the system?

What you’re seeing sounds like it could be cavitation, especially if the bubbles are around the pool returns. Cavitation happens when the pump isn’t getting enough water or there’s air trapped in the system, causing tiny vapor bubbles to form. Even if the pump seems fine, it’s worth checking for any air leaks in the suction line or ensuring the pump basket is full and clean.

 

[Oliver James]

After a few minutes of swimming, I notice tiny air bubbles sticking to my skin and even collecting around the pool returns. The water’s clear, and the pump seems okay. Is this a sign of micro-leaks, cavitation, or something else going on in the system?

I’ve dealt with those tiny bubbles before. It’s often cavitation too, but sometimes it can just be air slowly leaking into the system somewhere. Double-check all the fittings and seals around your pump and filter. Sometimes a loose valve or a small crack in a hose can let air in, causing those bubbles even if everything else looks normal.

 

[Henry Graham]

Tiny air bubbles usually mean air is getting in on the suction side of your system. Here’s what to check:

• Pump lid O-ring – make sure it’s clean, lubed, and sealing tight.
• Water level – keep it at least halfway up the skimmer.
• Skimmer – make sure it's not sucking air due to low water or a stuck weir.
• Suction leaks – inspect fittings before the pump for cracks or loose connections.
• Bleed the filter – release any trapped air if your filter has a relief valve.

It’s not likely a micro-leak in the return lines if the bubbles are showing up at the returns.

 

[Sophia Henry]

After a few minutes of swimming, I notice tiny air bubbles sticking to my skin and even collecting around the pool returns. The water’s clear, and the pump seems okay. Is this a sign of micro-leaks, cavitation, or something else going on in the system?

Great observation, and you're definitely asking the right kind of question. Tiny air bubbles on your skin and around the returns usually point to air getting into the system somewhere on the suction side, before the pump.

It’s not necessarily a major issue like a leak underground, but it could be something as simple as a loose pump lid, a bad O-ring, or a tiny crack in the plumbing or fittings. Cavitation is more serious and usually comes with a loud grinding sound from the pump, which you’d definitely notice.

I’d start by checking the pump lid and O-ring for a tight seal, make sure the water level in your pool is high enough, and inspect any visible plumbing connections for small air leaks. If you still see bubbles and everything looks sealed, a little soapy water around the joints can help you spot where air might be sneaking in.

 

[Richard Thomas]

After a few minutes of swimming, I notice tiny air bubbles sticking to my skin and even collecting around the pool returns. The water’s clear, and the pump seems okay. Is this a sign of micro-leaks, cavitation, or something else going on in the system?

It sounds like what you’re experiencing might be air bubbles caused by something other than micro-leaks or cavitation. One common reason for air bubbles in the water, even with clear water and a seemingly fine pump, is that air is getting into the system somewhere, typically in the skimmer or at the pump lid. It could be a loose connection, a small crack in the plumbing, or even an issue with the pump’s o-ring not sealing properly.

If the pump seems fine and you're not seeing any obvious leaks, you might want to check for air entering through the suction side of the system. Sometimes, air can get trapped in the system and make those bubbles, especially when the pool’s been in use for a while. A quick inspection around the plumbing and pump should help pinpoint where it’s coming from. If everything looks sealed and it continues, it might be worth having a professional take a closer look.