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Multiport valve settings can be confusing, especially if you don't know what a multiport valve is to begin with. The multiport valve is found on most sand filters and D.E. filters today. It allows you to route the water from the pump, through or around your filter in several different ways.
This valve will be found on top of your filter (top mount) or on the side of the filter (side mount). Click on the video above to watch our video explanation or just keep reading below.
"What do all of those settings do, anyway?"
Following is an explanation of each setting.
1. FILTER: Keep it here most of the time. This setting is used for normal filtration and vacuuming.
2. RINSE: Use this setting for 10-15 seconds after backwashing to rinse the valve or you may get some dust blown back into your pool.
3. RECIRCULATE: Use this setting to bypass the filter. Water comes from the pump through the valve and then back to the pool without being filtered. We rarely use this setting. It can be used to keep the water circulating while working on a filter repair or to stir up some chemicals you have added.
4. BACKWASH: Use this setting to reverse the flow of water through the filter and and out through the waste line. This cleans the filter. Make sure the backwash hose is rolled out if you have one. Never vacuum in this position. Click here to watch a backwash demonstration video.
5. CLOSED: Used to close off all ports of the valve in order to empty the pump basket when the pool sits much higher than the pump. Do not operate the pump with the valve in the closed position.
6. WASTE/DRAIN: This setting by-passes the filter and sends the water out of the waste pipe (or hose), instead of returning it to the pool. This setting is used to lower pool water level or to vacuum to waste when there is a lot of dirt or dead algae on the bottom of the pool.
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