Take Control of the Flow: Installing a Pool Diverter Valve Like a Pro
Diverter valves are a great choice if you want more control of your water pressure and prefer the option to drain pool water between pieces of filtration and sanitation equipment. This is an especially useful tool when dealing with tough water problems like algae blooms. In this tutorial, The Great Escape walks you through removing an existing fitting and installing a new diverter valve securely between your pump and filter.
Key Takeaways:
A diverter valve uses three ports to control water flow between your pump, filter, and waste outlet.
Always stop water flow from the skimmer and return sides before disconnecting your equipment.
Teflon tape helps create a secure connection and prevent minor leaks around threaded fittings.
Properly aligning the valve with the pump and the filter port labeled “TO PUMP” is essential for correct installation.
A wrench helps securely tighten the fittings before reconnecting the pump and filter with the union nut.
Step-by-Step Process:
Turn the shut-off valve handles to the side to close water flow from both the skimmer and return sides.
If you don’t have shut-off valves, use a Hayward 1022 black cap or rags to temporarily stop water from flowing through the openings.
3. Unscrew the nut on the valve between the pump and filter to separate the two pieces.
Remove the existing union, shut-off valve, or old diverter valve and set it aside.
Apply Teflon tape to all threaded fittings, using approximately 6–8 rotations without leaving threads exposed.
Insert one side of the new diverter valve into the side port of the pump.
Insert the opposite side into the filter port labeled “TO PUMP,” allowing the nut to hang loosely over the connection.
Use a wrench to tighten both fittings until secure.
Tighten the nut on the filter side until the pump and filter connections are firmly joined. Your new diverter valve is installed and ready to use.
Resources & Explanations:
Diverter Valve — A three-port connector that controls water flow and provides an outlet for diverting water to waste.
Teflon Tape — Wraps threaded fittings to help prevent minor leaks that can interfere with water flow.
Wrench — Provides the leverage needed to securely tighten the fittings during installation.
Hayward 1022 Black Cap — An option for stopping water flow during installation when your pool system does not have shut-off valves.
FAQs:
Q1: What does a diverter valve do on a pool system?
A: A diverter valve gives you greater control over water flow between the pump and filter. Its third capped port can also be opened when you need to divert water to waste.
Q2: What does “diverting water to waste” mean?
A: Removing the cap from the third port allows water to drain from between the pump and filter instead of continuing through the normal filtration path.
Q3: How much Teflon tape should I use?
A: Approximately 6–8 rotations, covering the threads without applying so much tape that the fittings become difficult to install.
Q4: What if my pool doesn’t have shut-off valves?
A: A Hayward 1022 black cap or rags can be used to stop water from pouring through the openings while the existing fitting is removed.
Q5: Where should the diverter valve connect to the filter?
A: Connect it to the filter port labeled “TO PUMP,” then secure the fittings and tighten the connecting nut firmly into place.
At The Great Escape, we want you to feel confident working with your pool equipment and understanding how each component helps your system operate. If you have questions about diverter valves, fittings, or your pool setup, reach out to your local Great Escape team. We’re always happy to help you get the most out of your pool.
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