Thanks for the explanation of the valves and for the manual!

As far as replumbing goes, would I just need to shut off the pump, close the valves and take out the Aqua Smarte? Then hook up the valve and outlet hose directly to the outlet of the filter?

If it can restrict flow, I want it gone as soon as possible.

I'm also planning to replace the cartridge filter with a sand one in a few weeks. Should I wait to remove the Aqua Smarte when I put in the sand filter?