High temp union leaking

[Icemann07]

Hello,
My pump is about four years old, and it started leaking from the threads on the pump outlet and the filter inlet. They used regular PVC connections. I replaced the connections with high-temperature unions. The filter side is fine, but the pump outlet is spraying from the threads in the pump when I increase the flow for cleaning. I tightened the union by hand with a good amount of force. What would you recommend? I know they don't recommend using a thread sealant but I don't want to over tighten the union going in the pump. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,
LJ

 

[1poolman1]

Hello,
My pump is about four years old, and it started leaking from the threads on the pump outlet and the filter inlet. They used regular PVC connections. I replaced the connections with high-temperature unions. The filter side is fine, but the pump outlet is spraying from the threads in the pump when I increase the flow for cleaning. I tightened the union by hand with a good amount of force. What would you recommend? I know they don't recommend using a thread sealant but I don't want to over tighten the union going in the pump. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,
LJ

You can't really overtighten one of those fittings, the threads are not tapered like a pipe fitting and won't damage the pump.
Even when using those, I wrap about 6 wraps of Teflon tape on the threads and then a light coating of silicone sealant (I hate leaks).
Also, on the outlet of a pump, hand tight is not usually enough to seal. Get a large Channel Lock pliers, or an oil filter wrench and, after loosening the black nut a bit, give the union about a quarter-turn more to be sure the O ring is compressed.

 

[Icemann07]

Thanks for the Knowledge, Poolman!

 

[Jimrahbe]

07,

The high temp unions have two o-rings.. One between the two halves of the union and one that is on the threaded end that screws into the pump body.

In theory, you should not need any Teflon tape or pipe dope, you just tighten it up until the O-ring between the pump body and the union is compressed.

Poolman has installed may more of these that I have, so it can't hurt to follow his installation process. I guess my point is that if it is leaking, it should be that it is just not tight enough.. Or you are missing the O-Ring..

Thanks,

Jim R.