Just opened up the pool and found a crack in the filter system

[Av642]

Hey all, just opened the pool and found this!

System is new to me and the filter is at least 15 years old.

Is this something I did wrong, or old age?

What's the best way to fix/buy this part?

I was just about to add DE powder and saw it leaking from here.


Sorry I'm not good with pool terminology.

Thank you!

 

[HermanTX]

The black round object is a Multi-port Valve. There is a spider gasket between the top and bottom as well as a seal in the handle.
A pool store most likely has the parts. You can turn off the pump system and remove the screws to lift off the top.
Sometimes that spider gasket can stick to one part or the other, so worst case you would need to buy a complete new MPV and have it replumbed to put in.

 

[PoolStored]

Hey!

It is a multiport valve:

MPV Valves - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Av642]

Thank you guys! It stopped leaking once the pump was on for a bit, it sprayed a lot the first time I turned it on though!

Is there a recommended multiport valve? I see hayward has a proprietary? variflow system.

I'll go to my local pool store tomorrow and show them the cracked piece, hopefully they have the parts for me!

 

[proavia]

With that crack in the right side MPV pipe fitting, I wouldn't run the pump.
The system is under pressure and the crack3d area could lead to the pipe and or valve failing.
This could cause damage and bodily injury.

Take pictures of the valve and filter from different angles. Include and manufacturer and model numbers in the pics.
If you choose to buy a new MPV locally, show them the pics so you (hopefully) get the correct MPV.
Usually, MPV are specific to the filter manufacturer and filter series - in addition to a difference in a DE or sand filter MPV.

If you post the pics here, someone may be able to identify the correct MPV you need.

 

[Av642]

With that crack in the right side MPV pipe fitting, I wouldn't run the pump.
The system is under pressure and the crack3d area could lead to the pipe and or valve failing.
This could cause damage and bodily injury.

Take pictures of the valve and filter from different angles. Include and manufacturer and model numbers in the pics.
If you choose to buy a new MPV locally, show them the pics so you (hopefully) get the correct MPV.
Usually, MPV are specific to the filter manufacturer and filter series - in addition to a difference in a DE or sand filter MPV.

If you post the pics here, someone may be able to identify the correct MPV you need.

Wow, thanks for the advice. I saw people try to jb weld the crack. However, if possible I will just replace the MPV.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get any model number off the well weathered MPV.

I do know that its a Hayward 48sqft microclear de filter.

Hopefully someone will know the best compatible part for this. I don't really trust my local pool store, that's actually what led me to this forum!

 

[PoolStored]

Hopefully someone will know the best compatible part for this.

If you have 1.5" pipes. Hayward Vari-Flo Backwash Valve, 1.5" for DE Filters - SP0710XR50
If you have 2" pipes. Hayward Vari-Flo MPV D.E. 2" FPT - SP0715XR50

 

[proavia]

JB Weld is great stuff - but not for a pressure vessel.
It may or may not hold - and will eventually fail. And when it does, it could explode with enough force to injure someone. Cut your losses and order a new MPV.

 

[Av642]

Thank you guys very much. Going to order a new mpv now!

 

[Av642]

Okay new turn of events - I have a new DE filter and am ready to order the multi port valve for it.

I had purchased a new DE filter last season in anticipation of this one breaking down (it's 20+ years old), so even though the grids are relatively new - I think it's time for a change.

I have a Pentair FNS DE Filter

FNS® Plus Filters

FNS Plus filters were designed for easy maintenance, convenience, and long-term reliability. Browse all product information here!

www.pentair.com

I measured the current pipe circumference and I get 5.25 Inches - so when dividing by PI - I get 1.67.

I am ASSuming that I have 1.5 inch PVC pipe and that this MPV will be correct.

Amazon.com

Now that this is out of the way - I would like to say that I called 4 pool companies. 2 went straight to voicemail, the other 2 took my information down and no reply. Understandably, I'm sure they are busy. However, I have a wife and kid that are excited to go in the pool ASAP - after reviewing previous posts and the potential for a rupture/damage/bodily harm I do not want to turn on the pump again.

Luckily I have nice friends that are willing to help and have some experience with PVC but not with pools.

I just wanted to lay out my plans and see if yall agree that it's a good idea.

Please excuse my crude microsoft paint markup skills.

My plan was to cut at the X's - then unhook the union at the filter itself.
Then twist off the MPV from the left union(Hoping to save this)

Once this is done - I need to test fit the new filter position and buy a few pipes and fittings.


Materials Needed

PVC Saw - Husky Folding PVC Saw 17PL0219 - The Home Depot
(1) 10 feet of pvc pipe - Charlotte Pipe 1-1/2 in. x 10 ft. PVC Schedule 40 DWV Pipe PVC071120600 - The Home Depot
(1)90 degree elbow - Charlotte Pipe 1-1/2 in. PVC DWV 90-Degree Hub x Hub Elbow Fitting PVC003000800HD - The Home Depot
(2)Male adapter - Charlotte Pipe 1-1/2 in. PVC Schedule 40 MPT x S Male Adapter PVC021091400HD - The Home Depot
Telfon tape for the male fittings - Blue Monster 1/2 in. x 1429 in. PTFE Thread Seal Tape 70885 - The Home Depot
And then of course some PVC cement - Christy's 8 oz. Wet or Dry Conditions PVC Cement RH.WET.HP36 - The Home Depot

Currently how the pool company installed the pool filter - there is no pad or anything underneath - do you recommend I have something under the filter?

Am I missing anything, would you recommend I take care of anything else or use different products while I'm tackling this?

Thank you guys as always!

 

[PoolStored]

You have 1.5"


Cutter is better than a saw:

Husky 2 in. Ratcheting PVC Cutter 16PL0805 - The Home Depot

Sturdy and durable, this Husky Quick Change Ratcheting Cutter provides maximum leverage with minimum effort for heavy-duty use.

www.homedepot.com

These are DWV, not for pools. NO DWV...only schedule 40...
Charlotte Pipe 1-1/2 in. x 10 ft. PVC Schedule 40 DWV Pipe PVC071120600 - The Home Depot
Charlotte Pipe 1-1/2 in. PVC DWV 90-Degree Hub x Hub Elbow Fitting PVC003000800HD - The Home Depot

Currently how the pool company installed the pool filter - there is no pad or anything underneath - do you recommend I have something under the filter?

Yes, even pavers...without it if filter sags, that is a lot of weight and will put stress on pvc pipes.

 

[Av642]

You have 1.5"
View attachment 495923

Cutter is better than a saw:

Husky 2 in. Ratcheting PVC Cutter 16PL0805 - The Home Depot

Sturdy and durable, this Husky Quick Change Ratcheting Cutter provides maximum leverage with minimum effort for heavy-duty use.

www.homedepot.com

These are DWV, not for pools. NO DWV...only schedule 40...
Charlotte Pipe 1-1/2 in. x 10 ft. PVC Schedule 40 DWV Pipe PVC071120600 - The Home Depot
Charlotte Pipe 1-1/2 in. PVC DWV 90-Degree Hub x Hub Elbow Fitting PVC003000800HD - The Home Depot


Yes, even pavers...without it if filter sags, that is a lot of weight and will put stress on pvc pipes.

Wow - I am really glad I asked.

DWV - very important in this situation! I'll order that all including the cutter.

Pavers are an excellent idea - I have some laying around I can use for under the filter.

Appreciate your input!

 

[PoolStored]

DWV - very important in this situation! I'll order that all including the cutter.

I copied your links...note they say DWV. Search for the same products and make sure they are Sched. 40.

 

[PoolStored]

From the MPV valve manual:


I think that Teflon tape has issues. I recommend the Permatex. Others will differ. I found the teflon tape can be thicker and cause issues...you wrap 5 times, I wrap 2...what is the right thickness? Permatex will not deform the thread. I have better luck with the sealants.

Note the tightening procedure...

 

[PoolStored]

My plan was to cut at the X's - then unhook the union at the filter itself.
Then twist off the MPV from the left union(Hoping to save this)

This may or may not work with the filter connections. May have to move the filter to get this to work. Be ready for plan B...

 

[Av642]

This may or may not work with the filter connections. May have to move the filter to get this to work. Be ready for plan B...

Your information has been invaluable. Thank you very much for everything!

 

[PoolStored]

invaluable

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