Plumbing for skimmer and filter falls

[EricV]

When plumbing in a skimmer and filter falls, what do you do? Just connect the two with a long run of Flex PVC? Assuming I'm OK with disassembling the media of the falls, is there any reason to add any additional valves or piping to back-flow and rinse out the filter falls (usual up flow type). Any reason to add valves to divert water from the pump to somewhere other than the falls?

 

[Meyer Jordan]

It is advisable to install a check valve/back-flow prevention valve between the pump outlet and the intake at the bottom of the filter falls. This will insure, in case of a power failure or other reasons that the pump stops working, that the water level in the filter falls is maintained protecting the bacterial colonies.

 

[EricV]

Thanks. Just the regular kind of Schedule 40 valve used (for instance) on the output of a sump pump? How would I then drain the system for the winter? (Not a concern for you, I bet.)

 

[Meyer Jordan]

Thanks. Just the regular kind of Schedule 40 valve used (for instance) on the output of a sump pump? How would I then drain the system for the winter? (Not a concern for you, I bet.)

Not sure what you mean by "regular" kind of valve. A check valve/back flow preventer works automatically.

For Winter draining, tee off at a convenient spot in the line, add a ball valve and you are set to go.

 

[EricV]

So something like this diagram?

 

[Meyer Jordan]

That's it,!

 

[Dave 54]

It is advisable to install a check valve/back-flow prevention valve between the pump outlet and the intake at the bottom of the filter falls. This will insure, in case of a power failure or other reasons that the pump stops working, that the water level in the filter falls is maintained protecting the bacterial colonies.

Agreed

Dave

 

[mgmine]

If you attach your check valve to your pump then you can avoid the extra ball valve. For the winter when you remove your pump you will also be removing the check valve and the water from the water falls will run back out the line and empty. If however you plan on washing the waterfalls out during the season then add an in line valve as Meyer suggested.

 

[EricV]

Thanks. Maybe I will do that. Start with minimal plumbing and then add more if I need it.