A normal pool valve setting would have the skimmer valve(s) fully open, main drain half-open and spa drain fully closed. To operate a suction pool cleaner or manually vacuum the pool, you can close other skimmers, or close the main drain, to obtain more suction through the skimmer you are using.
What do the valves on my pool do?
Pool valves control the direction of water flow, not just in and out of the pool, but in and out of your pool equipment as well. For example, you want the pool water to enter the filter, and then be expelled in the right direction to continue its path through the plumbing and back to the pool.
Should the pool valve be open or closed?
For proper water circulation, it is best to position the flap so that it is about 2/3 closed. This will allow for more flow through the main drain than through the skimmer, which will promote a “bottom-to-top” circulation throughout the pool.
What is the valve at the bottom of my pool?
A hydrostatic valve is a pressure relief device installed on the bottom of a swimming pool which prevents ground water pressure beneath the pool damaging the liner or even raising it out of the ground.
How do you know if a pool valve is open?
If the handle on top is parallel to the valve, it’s open. Likewise, if the handle is perpendicular to the top, the valve is closed. Common places you might find a ball valve are in irrigation and in sites where you need to control water supply from one area to another.
Where should a pool check valve be installed?
As such, a common location for a check valve is on the incoming suction pipe, in front of the filter pump. For best results with pump priming, especially for pumps lifting more than 24” from the water surface, the check valve should not be installed directly against the pump intake, but 12”-18” in front of the pump.
How long do pool valves last?
Pool valves tend to last between 5-7 years before the exterior plastic parts need to be replaced. As long as the internal parts are working handles can be replaced. If the valves are older than 10 years you may want to replace the whole thing versus replacing just handles.
Should pool skimmers be on all the time?
Although it’s generally recommended that all the pool water undergo filtration every 24 hours, the pump does not need to run all the time. A proactive, productive and energy-saving maintenance activity is to remove the debris floating on the pool surface with a hand-held skimmer.
Should I Use main drain or skimmer?
If the pool receives a lot of leaves and other debris, more suction may be required at the skimmer than the main drain to adequately strain debris floating on the surface. Conversely, if dirt on the bottom of the pool is the principal contaminant, more suction is required at the main drain.
Where is the main drain valve on a pool?
The main drains are usually located on the lowest point in the pool, so the entire pool surface slants toward them. Most of the dirt and debris that sinks exits the pool through these drains.
Should air valve be open on pool pump?
To relieve air pressure in the tank, simply open the air relief valve upon turning on the system. Sometimes the problem can be with the filter gauge itself. You may notice excessive readings that suggest an issue with your system.
How do you know if your pool has a hydrostatic valve?
First, the inspector will check to see if the pool has a hydrostatic relief valve, and if it is open. A hydrostatic relief valve is located in the deepest part of your pool usually under the main drain cover.
Do concrete pools need hydrostatic valves?
Usually a concrete pool is engineered to withstand considerable water pressure when empty, so the hydro-static valve is omitted. When the pool was built, it would have remained empty for a month or so while the concrete cured. So you can usually empty concrete pools without issues.
Which way closes a valve?
When it comes to which way you should turn the valve, keep in mind the old saying “righty tighty, lefty loosey.” In other words, turning a valve clockwise, or to the right, will restrict the flow of water while turning it counterclockwise, or to the left, will allow water to flow.
How do you tell if a valve is open or closed?
Open or closed: When the handle of a ball valve is parallel to the valve or pipe, it’s open. When it’s perpendicular, it’s closed.
