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Do I really need a multiport valve with a DE filter

15 years ago

It looks like I am going to have to replace my multiport valve since it has started to leak and I have been unable to locate a replacement spider seal.

Looking at what it does, I can only ever recall using the filter, backwash, and waste positions. I never got good results backwashing so for the last few years I always pull the filter apart to clean it. That leaves waste but I should be able to handle that with a 3 way valve. I'm thinking a three way valve would be easier to install, more reliable, and cheaper.

Am I overlooking something here?

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Comments (4)

repair_guy
15 years ago
You're better off with a slide valve.
Rack Etear
15 years ago
You would actually need 2 3 way valves for a single filter configuration.

I agree that the slide valve would be the way to go, but keep in mind you would not have a waste position which could be remedied, by the adding a ball valve off of a tee, or 3 way valve to the waste line.
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sreeb
Original Author
15 years ago
Do I really need to backwash? It has never worked well for me so I was thinking about just elimating it as an option.

That would leave me with a single 3 way selecting between waste, circulate, and drain filter.

Looking at slide valves, the spec sheets manufacturers put out are amazingly poor leaving out even the most basic dimentions. The inlet and outlet connections on my filter are 8" apart on center. Is this an industry standard that everyone uses or do I need to head down to my local pool parts store with ruler in hand?
huskyridor
15 years ago
quote" I'm thinking a three way valve would be easier to install, more reliable, and cheaper. "quote

easier to install- no

more reliable- yes

cheaper- no

2 3-way valves will give you the same options as a slide valve, filter or backwash only. Vacuum to waste would take a third 3 way. That is the only real benefit of a multiport valve over a slide or two valve setup.

quote" Do I really need to backwash? "quote

Only if you want to extend the time between filter cleans, and have less to clean off of your grids when you do breakdown the filter. I always backwash the grids as effectively as possible before taking my filters apart.

See ya,
Kelly

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