Valve Actuators

Valve Actuators

A valve actuator screws onto the top of a 2way or 3 way valve and provides motorized control to move the valve from one position to another. The valve actuators are powered by 24V AC and plug into an automation panel.

The actuators can rotate the valve diverter up to 180 degrees. The actuator has adjustable limit switches to set the two stop positions.

The actuator has a toggle switch to manually rotate the valve and to synchronize the set positions with the automation panel.

Manufacturers

• Jandy JVA 2444
• Pentair CVA-24
• Intermatic PE24VA
• Compool CVA-24 is now the Pentair CVA-24

All of the above actuators work basically the same, are interchangeable, and work with all automation panels. If an automation panel supports one manufacture valve any of them should work.

Repairs

Micro Switches

The actuators have two limit micro switches that turn off the motor when the reach a position. These switches often fail.

Sometimes removing the microswitches from the actuator in question and examining them, as well as the other parts of the actuator, can get it working. Short the leads to each switch and confirm that the motor operats in both directions. Test the continuity of each switch and find if they both worked reliably (at least on the kitchen counter). Then reassemble everything and the actuator may work fine.

The switch is an Omron Basic/Snap Action Switches SS-5T that can be bought at Mouser.

It takes about 5 minutes per actuator to do the labor. You need two Phillips screwdrivers (one medium and one small) to do the work.

Don't forget to cut off power to the actuators before you work on them. Install the switches in exactly the same orientation as the old ones. Try not to bend the connectors on the switches when you reinstall the wire clips.

Do NOT bend the Microswitch leads. You may cut off the center one if you like, but do not stress the other leads. Bending the lead stresses the internal connection of the leads and leads to pre-mature failure. Soldering ALL of the connections within the actuator will prevent other failures due to bad contact with the .110" slide on connectors to the micro-switches and the connections to the capacitor and motor leads.

Periodic Maintenance

Once the top is off, remove the screws holding the frame to the bottom plastic shell and inspect the gears. Water may get into and rust the gears, which will need replacement. Be sure they are well lubricated with thick grease.

Lubricate the handle shaft that sticks up through the top plastic shell with thick grease to avoid water seeping down the shaft.

The long gasket that seals the top and bottom shell pieces should be inspected and lubricated. Replace if cracked or degraded.

Tips

• Apply silicon grease (plumber's grease) to the rubber gasket and a little to gears.

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