can't backwash or waste

[Pool Clown]

Is it possible that when the prev owner reassembled the dial valve, that he didn't get the proper alignment between the handle and the valve block? Have you tried another handle position and see what happens?

[dalejanus]

I can't check the pressure, the gauge is not working. I replaced it a few years ago, but I never look at it so I don't know when it quit working. If the pool stores were open today, I'd get one. I guess I'll order one online today.

Water seems to be moving through the filter. When I put it on waste, even with the pump off, water comes out the waste drain.

When I have it on filter, I can turn the pump on and off over and over. It takes maybe 1 or 2 seconds to get running normally. I works just like it is supposed to.

But on waste or backwash, it it like the pump is trying to start or partially staring. I can see some water moving through the drain line, but at greatly reduced capacity.

I would replace the pump and motor but it works ok with filter, just no backwash/waste. So I am confused.


Pool Clown:
The handle has been this way for 5 years and has always worked. It worked ok on waste the first day this year. Are you saying I should move it halfway between filter and waste and see what happens? or try rinse instead of backwash?

[dalejanus]

Update:
This morning we again tried backwash and waste, same result. The pump is straining, and I keep shutting off after a few seconds to avoid blowing the fuse (uhh, actually popping the breaker, which is in the basement, etc etc).

On filter, the pump starts normally in under 1/2 second.
I did try halfway between filer and waste, no luck.


I ran a complete check and TOOK NOTES!

My filter has, clockwise
Filter
Waste
Closed
Backwash
Recirculate
Rinse

The pump works ok on
Filter
Closed
Recirculate



But the good news is the pools went from pea green to sea foam green. We could see a dark clump on the bottom and got a bunch of leaves out.

Then I tried backwash one more time and it worked! I ran it until the water looked clear. Of course, nothing is connected to my fancy new french drain, so my yard is full of water again. (the drain should clear it in an hour or two)

So we are bleaching away and vacuuming the bottom.

I am starting to suspect the valve. Maybe I should replace the whole filter, it's at least 15years old.

[Pool Clown]

I agree with Al. Something is not right. There are two ways to put the handle on the valve. The right way, and 180 off. One thing that is strange is that you say you can get flow when the valve is in close position. You're not supposed to be able to do that.

Just to be on the same page with you, when you are in filter, what port is the handle over?

[dalejanus]

The handle is 180 off,

I meant to say the pump does not sound funny and blow the fuse on filter,closed and recirculate. I did not stick my hand in front of the return to see if any water was moving when it was on closed.

I'll take some pictures tomorrow.

[Poconos]

Yeah, you need a pressure gauge. Will tell a lot. Also, NEVER run the pump with the handle between positions. Good chance you will destroy the spider gasket. If any spoke is loose the flow may lift it out of the channel then when you move to one of the positions....squash. Yes, not unusual for water to drain out the waste line with the pump off on an AG pool. Gravity and siphoning.
Al