Flow switch broken?

[PoolNewbRN]

Hello! I check equipment yesterday & noticed our SWGC says No flow even though pump is running, filter pressure level is normal, skimmer baskets are empty. I unplugged the sensor & plugged it back in with no change. Any ways to check if i need to replace the flow switch or if I have a bigger problem?

Some pics that might help. I appreciate any advice.

 

[JamesW]

Remove the cell so that you can look at the flow sensor.

 

[JamesW]

The flow of water hits this flapper and pushes it towards the black stalk, which makes the switch close.

Sometimes the metal tang breaks off.

Also, make sure that the flow switch arrow is correct.

 

[ajw22]

With a multimeter you can check if the switch electrically opens and closes.

You can unscrew the flow switch from the T and examine it.

 

[ChrisLPC]

Be careful unscrewing the flow switch. The metal piece can get twisted off.

 

[PoolNewbRN]

Thank you for the swift replies. I’m finally home during daylight to work on this. The flow switch is intact & is facing the correct way. We checked the SwGC & didn’t note any buildup (we also just cleaned it not long ago). So that would mean the switch is bad & we should order a replacement?

(I don’t have a multimeter or know what it is/how to use it so will have to skip that)

 

[ajw22]

Thank you for the swift replies. I’m finally home during daylight to work on this. The flow switch is intact & is facing the correct way. We checked the SwGC & didn’t note any buildup (we also just cleaned it not long ago). So that would mean the switch is bad & we should order a replacement?

A multimeter will tell you if the switch is bad.

 

[PoolNewbRN]

Also, why is the price range so wide in replacements? I see $30-$190! What am I suppose to get?

 

[ajw22]

Also, why is the price range so wide in replacements? I see $30-$190! What am I suppose to get?

Low price are third party knockoffs.

High price should be Hayward parts.

If you don't mind dealing with lower quality parts failing more frequently then the third party knockoffs may save you money. It is hard to know what you are getting with low cost online ordering.