Advice, please - pool return lines

[ChuckTin]

New to Pool maintenance and the retirement home we just bought came with a smallish in-ground pool. The circulation pump has 3 inlets and 2 outlets, to wit: (L to R) Skimmer, Main Drain, Vacuum; then the Salt generator and finally the Waterfall feature.

Messing with the valves on the return side I can't seem to get the balance right. Currently I've got the Vacuum (Hayward Navigator Pro) full open and the Skimmer and Main Drain just cracked. Good combination or not?

Also I've noticed that the Waterfall takes a while to react when I open that valve. Is that usual? And is there any advantage to having the Waterfall on, other than for "looks"? (We were told to leave it off more often than on, just run it once in a while to keep the passages clean).

Steep learning curve ahead, I know. Thanks in advance.

cvt

 

[YippeeSkippy]

Hey there Chuck

Are you using the pool vac when you have those valves set like that? I would prefer to see the skimmer wide open, that will keep your surface the cleanest. THen the main drain (fairly optional these days, but a good fail safe back up in case the water level drops below the skimmer). I'd use the skimmer suction line only when using the device. But that's my preferences.

THe waterfall will take time if it doesn't have its own pump putting pressure behind that water. And yeah, running it briefly daily will keep chlorine in the lines and avoid problems with stagnant water. BUT! Running a waterfall also may increase your pH over time and require the use of muriatic acid to lower it now and then. Your call.

Do you have a test kit??

Can you please fill out a signature line at the bottom (see under Settings) so we know what surface and equipment you have. Thanks!

Maddie

 

[ChuckTin]

Thanks and I'll check that signature line.