Selector valves for filters

How to Choose the Best Pool Filter Selector Valve for Swimming Pool Filters

what is a pool selector valve?

A pool filter selector valve is a multi-position valve, usually located on the top or side of the filter, which allows you to control the flow of water through the pool filtration and maintenance system. Its main function is to direct the water to different stages of the process, depending on the operation to be performed, such as filtering, filter backwashing, rinsing, emptying or recirculating the water.

Operation of a selector valve

Selector valves have a handle that allows you to switch between different positions, depending on the function you want to perform in the pool:

• Filtration: Water passes through the filter to remove dirt and return clean water. This is the default position for daily pool operation. You use it when you want the water to circulate through the filter to remove small leaves, dust or light debris, keeping the pool clean.
• Backwash: Reverses the water flow to clean the filter media (sand, glass, etc.) and flush accumulated dirt to the drain. If you notice that the filter pressure gauge shows high pressure (above normal) or the water does not come out as clear, use this position to clean the filter media. We recommend 2-3 min of flushing
• Rinsing : Reorganizes the filter media after washing and removes residues before returning to filtration. After flushing, the filter media (such as sand) may be messy. Place the valve in rinse for 20-30 seconds to settle the sand and remove any remaining debris before returning to filtration. This prevents loose particles from returning to the pool.
• Recirculation: Water circulates without passing through the filter, useful for mixing chemicals . If you have just added a chemical such as chlorine or algaecide and you want to mix it well in the water without passing through the filter or you have problems in the filter.
• Emptying : The water is sent directly to the drain, without passing through the filter, to lower the pool level or to dispose of dirty water. Very useful when you run the manual pool cleaner and it has a lot of dirt in it. E.g. calima, liquid flocculant
• Closed: Blocks the water flow completely. Used when you have to do maintenance work on the installation, if you are repairing the pump or filter and you need to completely cut off the water flow, you use this position. For example, when changing a gasket on the filter, you set the valve to closed to work without water flow.

Types of selector valves

There are different types of selector valves for pool filters, depending on their design and type of installation:

• Lateral selector valves. They are installed on the side of the filter and are the most common. As a general rule, they are for manual use. They can be of 1" 1/2, 2" or 3". The normal one in private swimming pool is of 1" 1/2.
• Superior selector valves. Placed in the superior part of the filter, they are less common. Also of common manual use. As a general rule they are 1" 1/2 . They stand out for their easy installation and maintenance.
• Automatic selector valves. They work in an automated way, allowing to automate the filtering, washing and rinsing cycles without manual intervention. They are ideal for pools of intensive use, public or those that we want to increase the degree of automatism.

Aspects to take into account when choosing a selector valve for swimming pools

To choose the right selector valve, it is important to consider:

• Type of installation (side or top): Depending on the configuration of the filtration system.
• Compatibility with the filter: It must be of the same brand. Keep in mind that each filter manufacturer designs its valves
• Diameter of the connections: It is essential to verify that the connections coincide with the pipes of the installation, they can be of 1" 1/2, 2" or 3". The normal in private pools is 1" 1/2.
• Ease of maintenance: Some valves allow easier access to change gaskets and internal parts. 2 Types: screw or bayonet. Clearly we recommend the screw type

Spare parts for selector valves

For optimum performance, it is recommended that you take into account which components are susceptible to damage...

• Seals: They deteriorate over time and can cause leaks. Especially the star-shaped one
• Handle: One of the parts that suffers the most wear. This part together with has many uses.
• Bell: Key part of the valve mechanism and, over time, it can wear out or get damaged, which can affect the correct operation of the valve.
• Original spare parts: We recommend using original spare parts. Remember that each manufacturer has its own spare parts. AstralPool, Coral, QP and Hayward.