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How to Control a Pool Diverter Valve

Pool diverter valves are the heart of your pool's plumbing system. The valves contain a small paddle that controls the flow of water between three pipes. The position of the valve handle will determine the source of water that's allowed into a suction system. Having a master valve simplifies the plumbing on your pool and allows you to know exactly what's happening with the water at any given time.

Things You'll Need

  • Work gloves

Instructions

    • 1

      Put on a pair of work gloves and turn the diverter valve so that the handle is aligned with the supply pipe. This is the normal position that allows water to flow from the main drain and the skimmers to the pool pump.

    • 2

      Turn the diverter valve 90 degrees counterclockwise from the normal position. This will align the valve handle with the main drain line. This setting will allow water to only flow from the main drain line to the inlet port on the pump. The line from the skimmers will be shut off.

    • 3

      Turn the diverter valve 90 degrees clockwise from the normal position. This will align the valve handle with the skimmers. In this position, water will only flow from the skimmers to the inlet line on the pump. The main drain line will be shut off.