Do I need a valve at bottom of slide?

[Veccster]

My equipment pad is about 10ft above water level.
Last year, I didn't properly winterize my slide line it cracked.
It's been replaced but the pool company that closed my pool felt there should've been a valve at the bottom of the slide to aid in closing it.
So the jerks cut my line and said they would install a valve when they open it. Well, I'm planning to open myself.

Soooo....do I need a valve there? Any suggestions on type of valve? Any benefit to having a 3-way valve to help with the clean-out?

I also have a clean-out halfway between the pad and the slide. It was done when the line was replaced as an extra precaution.

Any other suggestions?

 

[ajw22]

Yes, you need something to drain the line if your pump is above the level of the slide.

Rather then a valve I would put a union on that can be unscrewed. Then the pipe up to the slide will drain and the pipe in the ground can be blown out.

Homewerks Worldwide 1-1/2 in. Solvent x 1-1/2 in. Solvent PVC Union 511-14-112-112H - The Home Depot

Connect cold water pipes with solvent-weld connections using Homewerks Worldwide PVC Slip x Slip Union. Offers long lasting durability.

www.homedepot.com

I would worry about with people around that area a valve can be kicked or broken or accidentally opened. A union will keep the pipe solid during the season and allow winterization.

 

[Winger 03]

I have, I think, the same slide and a ball valve. I am certain that is going to break at some point and will most likely get out of the valve business there and go to a union. I never considered a union, I think that is a great idea. It is, however, convenient to have a valve there to avoid going to the equipment pad to turn the slide on.

 

[Veccster]

Yes, you need something to drain the line if your pump is above the level of the slide.

Rather then a valve I would put a union on that can be unscrewed. Then the pipe up to the slide will drain and the pipe in the ground can be blown out.

Homewerks Worldwide 1-1/2 in. Solvent x 1-1/2 in. Solvent PVC Union 511-14-112-112H - The Home Depot

Connect cold water pipes with solvent-weld connections using Homewerks Worldwide PVC Slip x Slip Union. Offers long lasting durability.

www.homedepot.com

I would worry about with people around that area a valve can be kicked or broken or accidentally opened. A union will keep the pipe solid during the season and allow winterization.

Great...thank you! That definitely makes more sense.

I just placed the order!