Return plugs

[joshua5438]

Has anyone ever used this type plug when closing the pool for the winter? I currently have the threaded plugs for the returns and happen to see these at the store the other day. They had about a half dozen different sizes.

Shop Oatey PVC Test Plug Fitting at Lowes.com

 

[Catanzaro]

The plug you refer to is designed for PVC test plugs. It is not designed for IG pools and will probably not expand. Black winter plugs or threaded plugs only. I had leaks with threaded plugs, so black plugs for me.

 

[PoolguyinCT]

The plug you refer to is designed for PVC test plugs. It is not designed for IG pools and will probably not expand. Black winter plugs or threaded plugs only. I had leaks with threaded plugs, so black plugs for me.

The plug in the link will also turn to a ball of rust couple days.

 

[rajung]

I have tried one very similar to that one, just from Menards.
It is not long enough and will not go deep into opening enough. Any slight pressure against it , when frozen water around it from my experience, it will just pop out. plus as mentioned turning to rust, it is straight metal and plastic, not stainless. here is a link to an ebay post for one that I have used with great results.
I use 1 1/2 inch but you can search for 2 inch.
If you can use a non threaded style , this one goes deep into opening and will not corrode.
Anderson 145N 1-1/2 pipe Nylon Pool Winterizing Pool Test Plug 852673923540 | eBay

 

[HiddenRiver]

I wonder why they call them “test plugs”. Would think winterizing plugs would be a better name? Test plug sounds like they aren’t sure if the plug will do the job.

 

[Catanzaro]

I wonder why they call them “test plugs”. Would think winterizing plugs would be a better name? Test plug sounds like they aren’t sure if the plug will do the job.

I believe it is a test plug for a straight flush PVC. Remember that pool return fittings are threaded and the black plugs expand to grab the outside so no air escapes and water enters.

 

[PoolguyinCT]

I believe it is a test plug for a straight flush PVC. Remember that pool return fittings are threaded and the black plugs expand to grab the outside so no air escapes and water enters.

And tapered is they don’t fall in the pipes.

 

[gsrel]

Is there not a higher chance of them falling out/letting water past vs a threaded plug with sufficient tape?

 

[joshua5438]

Thats why I asked. Thanks! I have the threaded plugs and have had to wrap Teflon around them to keep them from leaking. I will search for the black pugs. Just happen to see those and figured it was worth asking.

 

[gsrel]

I wonder if it would be wise to put foam rope inside the return before placing the plug?

 

[Catanzaro]

If the pool lines are cleared of water sufficiently, there is no need for foam rope inside the plumbing. Black winter plugs are perfectly fine. The threaded plugs leak and that has been my experience. 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock position on the wing nuts.

 

[joshua5438]

Can you expand on the reasoning for the wingnut position? This is the first I have heard of this.

 

[Catanzaro]

Can you expand on the reasoning for the wingnut position? This is the first I have heard of this.

Advised of this from PoolGuyCT. Considering his knowledge and background, I will not doubt him. It has to do with the water level possibly freezing and somehow putting pressure on the plug. The North to South will put more pressure away from the water level. My best guess.

 

[1Sammy]

where can i see this Black Plug guys ?

 

[gsrel]

What size plugs is used for hayward returns? #8?

 

[Catanzaro]

What size plugs is used for hayward returns? #8?

Depends - some use # 9 and # 10, and even # 11 in the steps. You will have to figure out the width of your returns. We can go from there.