It's been several months since we last turned the 3-way valve that controls whether the filter is getting input from the cleaner line, skimmer line, or both (these lines were re-done last year when we had the pool resurfaced). And the other day when we tried to set it so that it was getting input from the cleaner line only, it seemed that it wouldn't turn to that position (so our 3-way valve seemed to be acting more like a 2-way valve - input from skimmer and cleaner lines or input from just skimmer) - could've sworn that we were able to do that *last* season but we didn't want to force it and break it. Is it common for these valves to get stuck? Are there any hints/tips for un-sticking them and any online diagrams? Will try to take a photo tomorrow. Thanks!
stuck 3-way valve?
- Thread starter PoolCleanerMom
- Start date
It could be stuck but it sounds more like it's a stop on the valve that's preventing you from going all the way.
I was going to say the same thing about the stops yesterday, but decided to wait to see some pictures. I find it hard to believe it would get stuck ... unless there was a stick/debris in it or something.
You should be able to unscrew the handle and top and inspect the inside.
You should be able to unscrew the handle and top and inspect the inside.
OK, this is the valve in its usual position with the "Closed" arrow (the middle white arrow opposite the handle) pointed away from the pump (the gray pipe is the one that goes to the pump):
This is with the "closed" arrow pointing to the cleaner line
And this is the only other position that the valve can be set to, with the "Closed" arrow pointed towards the line to the pump
This is with the "closed" arrow pointing to the cleaner line
And this is the only other position that the valve can be set to, with the "Closed" arrow pointed towards the line to the pump
First picture is sucking from both the skimmer and cleaner.
Second picture is only sucking from the skimmer
Third picture has the pump closed (NEVER run the pump in that orientation).
If you pull the 8 screws and rotate the top and handle 90 degree counter-clockwise, then the 3-way would work as you desire. Not sure why it was put that way unless there was a desire to close the suction line completely (like if the pump is below the pool water level so that you can close it when opening the pump basket)
Second picture is only sucking from the skimmer
Third picture has the pump closed (NEVER run the pump in that orientation).
If you pull the 8 screws and rotate the top and handle 90 degree counter-clockwise, then the 3-way would work as you desire. Not sure why it was put that way unless there was a desire to close the suction line completely (like if the pump is below the pool water level so that you can close it when opening the pump basket)
I'm not sure how it would have gotten changed, but the fix is the same. Take the top off and inspect it to see if something is caught in it and if not reset the top so it rotates between the two suctions and never closes the pump inlet.