I had the old configuration working (as long as I didn't put the cartridge in the filter). Replaced the filter.
First, is this normal: With pump off, the water level in the skimmer throat is about 2". With the pump running, it is less than 1/2", and the top og the basket is barely covered. Remember - the only floor drain is plumbed into the skimmer, not the pump. I still suspect the floor drain is partially blocked - I couldn't find a jetter, the pressure cleaner I used shot out a handful of small pebbles, and the bladder just sat there - it swelled up, but there was no indication of resistance.
The pump acts normally and starts to fill. When I close the filter's bleed valve, it stabilizes for a while, then drops, raises again - after a few minutes, I can open the bleed valve and find a new supply of air in it.
I hate raising the water level just to have to drain it, but if it sounds like a close-to-dry skimmer is the likely culprit, I will.
Of possible interest: the old filter had the in and out ports at 90 degrees. This one has them at 180.
This install is getting uglier every time I touch it - the line from the pump to the filter is now over 4' horizontal - add another 3' for verticals. 1 1/2 hp on a 200 sq ft cart filter, 2" plumbing.
The cart is used, the backyard dealer I bought it from made sure it was shiny white, but it still registers 10-20 psi CLEAN. Of course, this gauge thinks free air is 20 psi
Does this situation raise any flags?
First, is this normal: With pump off, the water level in the skimmer throat is about 2". With the pump running, it is less than 1/2", and the top og the basket is barely covered. Remember - the only floor drain is plumbed into the skimmer, not the pump. I still suspect the floor drain is partially blocked - I couldn't find a jetter, the pressure cleaner I used shot out a handful of small pebbles, and the bladder just sat there - it swelled up, but there was no indication of resistance.
The pump acts normally and starts to fill. When I close the filter's bleed valve, it stabilizes for a while, then drops, raises again - after a few minutes, I can open the bleed valve and find a new supply of air in it.
I hate raising the water level just to have to drain it, but if it sounds like a close-to-dry skimmer is the likely culprit, I will.
Of possible interest: the old filter had the in and out ports at 90 degrees. This one has them at 180.
This install is getting uglier every time I touch it - the line from the pump to the filter is now over 4' horizontal - add another 3' for verticals. 1 1/2 hp on a 200 sq ft cart filter, 2" plumbing.
The cart is used, the backyard dealer I bought it from made sure it was shiny white, but it still registers 10-20 psi CLEAN. Of course, this gauge thinks free air is 20 psi
Does this situation raise any flags?