I'm a new pool owner and the pump to our solar isn't working. According to the pool service, it hasn't worked for at least 4 years. I did some testing of the solar system and it appears to be in working condition otherwise, no leaks.
The broken solar pump is connected to the return line via a T connection. The solar has two valves, one right after the pump going out to the solar and another on the return line. I've found that if I change my return to only go to my waterfall and open the valve right after the pump, water will flow through the solar and then exit through a drain valve. The normal return valve to from the solar remains closed. With this I'm able to get two hoses connected and about 10 gallons a minute through the unit with it always being hot.
My questions are;
I understand this isn't optimal, but does this cause any harm? In understand that the main pump my be working harder and wear out sooner but I'm planning on replacing that pump soon.
My filter took on an additional 5 pounds of pressure, is this okay?
If I'm going to a variable speed pump soon, is it acceptable to replace the t-connection to the solar with an automated valve that will open and close as needed and remove the original pump?
I can post a picture if you a little later.
The broken solar pump is connected to the return line via a T connection. The solar has two valves, one right after the pump going out to the solar and another on the return line. I've found that if I change my return to only go to my waterfall and open the valve right after the pump, water will flow through the solar and then exit through a drain valve. The normal return valve to from the solar remains closed. With this I'm able to get two hoses connected and about 10 gallons a minute through the unit with it always being hot.
My questions are;
I understand this isn't optimal, but does this cause any harm? In understand that the main pump my be working harder and wear out sooner but I'm planning on replacing that pump soon.
My filter took on an additional 5 pounds of pressure, is this okay?
If I'm going to a variable speed pump soon, is it acceptable to replace the t-connection to the solar with an automated valve that will open and close as needed and remove the original pump?
I can post a picture if you a little later.