Sand Filter Multiport Valve

If you have a swimming pool at your home it is best to know the terminology of a sand filter multiport valve. The multiport valve is used to backwash the sand of the DE pool filter. It features many internal ports and helps you backwash the filter. All you need is to turn the single valve handle and it works perfectly. Other common uses of this valve include rinsing and flushing out the residual dirt. It helps with waste drainage along with lowering the water level. You can use the recirculate feature if the filter needs repair.

What Is a Sand Filter Multiport Valve?

The multiport valves can fit in on specific filters and are not interchangeable. It is easy to mount them on the top or side without putting in much effort. However, the DE multiport valves are side-mounted only. You can attach them to the side of the tank very easily. The sand and DE filters can be side-mounted and are not interchangeable too.

All the pool owners can get the multiport valves in 1.5 and 2 models. It refers to the size of the pipe connections. The 1.5 valves are suitable for small filters with the 2’’ valves are more suitable for larger models and pools. PVC plumbing offers a higher flow rate as compared to other options. The side valves are popularly known as push-pull valves. They are a good alternative to sand or DE filters. Moreover, it offers a higher flow rate and has two functions that feature filter and backwash.

Sand Filter Multiport Valve Troubleshooting

If you need to troubleshoot the multiport valve here is what you can do:

1. Leaking out the waste port

One of the most common problems with the pool multi-valve is that the water can begin to leak out. It can return unfiltered pool water without taking much time. You can repair the valve by replacing it with a spider gasket.

2. Broken valve handle

You can replace the valve handles by tapping out the handle pin. It will help you remove the old handle and install a new MPV handle. If this isn’t enough you can replace the entire system without professional help.

3. Leaking around the valve handle

Most sand filter multiport valves can leak due to failure of the stem O-rings. They are located underneath the handle without spilling anything over the edge. You can easily replace the O-rings or the entire key assembly too.

4. Leaks around the pipe ports

The cracks around the pipe ports can be challenging to handle. You can replace the valve and get a new one according to your requirement.

5. Leaks where valve connects to filter

The top-mounted multi-valves feature a gasket while the side-mounted valves have union O-Rings. It will help seal the valve to the filter tank without putting in much effort. When the leaks have been prevented the flow of clean water will become more prominent than usual.

What Is the Operation of a Sand Filter Multiport Valve?

There are plenty of functions of a multiport valve. Here are some of them:

1. Filter

In this situation, all the pool water will pump inside the filter. If there is sediment and dirt trapped inside the sand bed, it will be easy to take them out. It allows the clean water to return to the pool.

2. Backwash

When it comes to backwash it will pump the water right into the filter. The dirt and other collectible particles in the sand bed will be washed out. There is no doubt that backwashing the pool for at least 3-5 minutes will be a good choice. It will be visible in the sign glass that is right next to the side of the sand filter multiport valve.

3. Rinse

The pool water is easy to pump through the filter right down the waste pipe. This position is used after backwashing to rinse and settle the sand. You need to switch the filter after 30 minutes of backwashing. After this, you will find fresh water inside the system and bring it back to its original level.

4. Recirculate

The water from the pump will bypass the filter sand bed without taking much time.

5. Waste

When it comes to the waste feature, the pool water is pumped directly to the multiport valve. It will move the water away from the waste- line and bypass into the sand bed. This position is suitable when the pool has a large buildup of dirt and leaves. You will need to backwash the pool right after vacuuming. Make sure that the waste position is used only for a short period.

6. Closed

In this position, the multiport valve is closed off. Moreover, the water from the pump will not pass through the filter correctly.

7. Note

You shouldn’t operate the pump with the valve especially when it is in the closed position. It is easy to adjust the right position of the valve. Pool owners can adjust the setting of the position according to their requirements.

How to Replace Parts on the Sand Filter Multiport Valve

The multiport top valve and the wagon wheel are easy to replace. It is recommended to get it replaced with the help of a professional. You can follow these steps to replace the multiport valve:

 ● Loosen the bolts and nuts with spanners and keep them aside.

 ● You can lift the multiport top and place it in one position. Make sure that the filter setting is faced toward the filter.

 ● Place the lever on one side in between the settings to replace the bolts or nuts.

 ● Screw the bolts and nuts to tighten them with high-quality spanners. However, you cannot overtighten them.

Conclusion

Sand and DE filters make use of a sand filter multiport valve. It helps clean the backwash of the filter media conveniently. Each one of the multiport valves is multiple ports inside the vale. If you want to purchase a new product, don’t forget to check the collection offered at Poolking. Why not maintain the freshness and quality of your pool?