DE Filter creates geiser thru skimmer when turned off q's

[Poconos]

There should be no need for a check valve in a normal system. Granted it would probably solve this specific problem, but there is some issue that is not yet explained.
Al

[rio002]

OK I went back through and tightened all my hose clamps (was surprised I got a 1/2 turn or so out of the ones on the filter-these were tight 3 weeks ago). I let the filter run all day, it was at 25psi tonight, I opened the air valve and let it stay open for about a minute- the whole time water was coming out with some air too. I left it open til my psi dropped to 20, then simultaneously shut off the pump and pushed the control handle down so it was in between gears--this caused only a small belch out of the skimmer, backwash hose and return valve. It sounded like I got a belch from under the control handle though- is that normal when it's in between gears?
Oh, and the return valve does continue to push after the pump is off for about 10 seconds. I really appreciate all your help in tracking this down, I've only had sand filters before, but those only survive so long lol.

[JohnT]

I opened the air valve and let it stay open for about a minute- the whole time water was coming out with some air too.

As long as air is coming out at all, I'd leave the bleed valve open. Only shut it when it's all water.

[Poconos]

Another thought...are you seeing air bubbles in the pump basket after the pump has been running for a while? 15 minutes or so. I wonder if you're sucking air from someplace and therefore can't bleed the filter or when you do it just gets trapped air again. Anything in the line between the pump and filter other than a hose or pipe? Also, I wouldn't change the valve setting while under pressure. You said it has Hayward controls and I assume that means a multi-port valve. The danger you run is when you release pressure with the handle the rush of water and/or air can lift the spider gasket off its seat and you'll probably destroy it. The burp out the waste line and all the other things still point to trapped air in the filter. Again, best I can do for now.
Al

[rio002]

Yes after it runs about 2 hours or so, the skimmer seems to have less suction, sometimes it even releases the basket like it burped while running-but if I put my hand down the skimmer the suction feels pretty strong. But yes after running for that long the "whirlwind" of water in the skimmer just sits still and all the stuff on top of the water just passes right by the skimmer, because of the Algaecide I use it becomes a thick foam in there.

Good to know about the spider gasket deal--I'll quit shutting it off like that lol

It is multi-port valve but there's nothing but a hose in between the filter and pump, in fact all connections between the pool, filter and pump are just straight hose.

Traci

[MarkC]

Can you check your hoses before the pump for any small slits or holes. If you had a small hole in the suction side you would not see any water leaking but would be letting air enter your pump which then would end up in the filter housing.

[PatL34]

From what I have been reading from all these threads, I keep thinking that the problem seems to be with the multiport valve.

If it is the type that you pull up and push down for backwashing, one of the seals may be worn out.

With the Hayward Multiport type, the seal between the casing and the top may be leaking, allowing air to be drawn in.

Just my thoughts.

(Poconos. I still like to see a check valve downstream of the pump. It protects the pump seal and the motor. Standard engineering practice.)

Pat