Pool returns assessment for skimmer

[calisoldier]

I'm having some trouble with a little surface debris, like tiny bugs and small specs floating on top of the water. I never had any issue before until about a week ago. I'm not sure if it has something to do with the environment.

I added a skimmer flap that was missing a couple days ago, and cleaned out the filter cartridges. If I run the pump at full blast then side by the skimmer gets pretty clean, but the other side is still not clear where my returns reside. I'm posting some pics to show how to returns are pointed in relation to the skimmer for reference.

 

[Texas Splash]

You only have those two return jets correct? If so, then your don't really have many options. I would just point the jets towards the other end of the pool. 37' is a good stretch to push any debris, and the wind direction will have the most impact on skimmer success, but that would appear to be all you can do.

 

[calisoldier]

You only have those two return jets correct? If so, then your don't really have many options. I would just point the jets towards the other end of the pool. 37' is a good stretch to push any debris, and the wind direction will have the most impact on skimmer success, but that would appear to be all you can do.

That's correct. So I guess the side return needs to be adjust a bit. I read that the returns aren't supposed to make ripples at the surface, but mine do. Is there a certain position (middle, down, somewhere in between) that they should point?

Also, it looks like I have some pretty crummy return fittings. They have two tabs that are impossible to turn by hand. Are there any special fittings I should get? The side return jet isn't as strong as the one under the basketball hoop.

I didn't really notice surface debris until recently for some reason. It's getting a bit hotter out so maybe that's why.

 

[Texas Splash]

Is there a certain position (middle, down, somewhere in between) that they should point?

There is no one perfect adjustment for every pool owner. You can experiment. But yes, if the jets point so high that it creates aeration that can increase the pH. A gentle ripple on the surface is fine. Your water level height can also influence what you see near the jets. As for the jet nozzles themselves, there are various type, so you might be able to swap them out.

 

[calisoldier]

There is no one perfect adjustment for every pool owner. You can experiment. But yes, if the jets point so high that it creates aeration that can increase the pH. A gentle ripple on the surface is fine. Your water level height can also influence what you see near the jets. As for the jet nozzles themselves, there are various type, so you might be able to swap them out.

I’m trying to see what my options are for nozzle replacement. I’m not positive but the ones I have feel like they’re wedged in since I don’t feel any threads inside the port. I tried unscrewing them by hand but no luck.

 

[Texas Splash]

A bit hard for me to tell from the pic. Perhaps @Poolbreh might know?

 

[1poolman1]

I’m trying to see what my options are for nozzle replacement. I’m not positive but the ones I have feel like they’re wedged in since I don’t feel any threads inside the port. I tried unscrewing them by hand but no luck.

AquaStar Socket and Jet Removal Tool for Most Major Brand Return Fittings | Black | VSJW102​

 

[calisoldier]

AquaStar Socket and Jet Removal Tool for Most Major Brand Return Fittings | Black | VSJW102T​

Thanks. But I want to figure out if can I replace it with something adjustable.

 

[1poolman1]

Thanks. But I want to figure out if can I replace it with something adjustable.

This is probably what you have, without the "eyeball."

AquaStar 1.5" Flush Mount Extender Return Fitting with Slotted Orifice | White | ASD101D​

 

[calisoldier]

This is probably what you have, without the "eyeball."

AquaStar 1.5" Flush Mount Extender Return Fitting with Slotted Orifice | White |​

The tabs seem a bit different on mine. Here’s a better pic.

 

[1poolman1]

The tabs seem a bit different on mine. Here’s a better pic.

That is an adjustable fitting, eyeball can be seen in this picture. you just need the tool.

 

[calisoldier]

That sounds right. I was able to take one off in the spa, thanks. Since it's threaded, do you think other brands fit?

 

[1poolman1]

That sounds right. I was able to take one off in the spa, thanks. Since it's threaded, do you think other brands fit?

Generally, those return fittings are threaded into 1.5" female pipe adapters. The body itself may come out and can be replaced. Most parts like that are brand-specific. One company's part may not fit another's.

 

[calisoldier]

Generally, those return fittings are threaded into 1.5" female pipe adapters. The body itself may come out and can be replaced. Most parts like that are brand-specific. One company's part may not fit another's.

Thank you for clearing that up. Too bad pool builder used these, pretty terrible design.