How to Unclog a Pool Pump Impeller in Bakersfield (Step-by-Step Fix for Rosedale, Seven Oaks & Southwest Pools)
- Ethan Redick
- Nov 24
- 2 min read
If your pool pump is making a loud grinding noise, pushing weak flow, or just won’t prime, chances are the impeller is clogged with Kern County’s favorite souvenirs — oak leaves, dust, and construction grit from Rosedale builds or Seven Oaks pollen bombs. I see it every week on our routes in 93312, 93311, and 93309. Good news: you can usually fix it yourself in 20–30 minutes and save the $150–$250 service call.
Tools You’ll Need
Phillips & flathead screwdriver
9/16 or 7/16 wrench (depends on your pump)
Needle-nose pliers or impeller puller tool
Garden hose with spray nozzle
Step-by-Step (Works on most Pentair, Hayward, and Sta-Rite pumps)
Turn off power at the breaker — never trust the timer switch.
Close the valves before and after the pump so you don’t drain the pool.
Remove the pump basket lid and clean the basket (90% of the time the clog starts here).
Take off the pump housing bolts (usually 4–6) — keep them in a cup.
Pull the pump housing forward — the motor stays put.
Look at the impeller — you’ll see leaves, twigs, or a solid mat of gunk wrapped around the vanes.
Hold the motor shaft on the back with a wrench, then unscrew the impeller counterclockwise (reverse thread on most).
Clean it out — hose blast + pliers. Check the diffuser for stuck debris too.
Reassemble — hand-tighten impeller, bolt housing back, open valves, prime, flip breaker.
When to Call SplashTech Instead
If the impeller is cracked, the shaft is seized, or you’re not comfortable pulling the pump apart, we’ll be out same or next day in Rosedale, Seven Oaks, Fruitvale, Olive Drive Area, or any 93309/93311/93312 neighborhood — $149 diagnostic + repair (parts extra).
Quick fix today, or let us handle it tomorrow — either way, your pool will be pushing water like new again.
Need us out fast? Text or call (661) 602-3967 — we’re local and keep the most common impellers on the truck.
— The SplashTech Crew Keeping Bakersfield pools flowing since day one
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