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Questions and answers
why does water come out of the drain when I filter?
This is the most classic symptom of a worn star seal. The star seal is the one that seals the internal lines of the valve when changing position. When it becomes flattened over the years, it lets water pass between the return and drain lines, and this constant "thread" appears through the drain hose while you are filtering. The solution is to replace the star seal (sometimes also the bell if it has visible wear). It is an affordable operation for home users: 30-60 minutes, requires disassembling the top cover of the valve.
are the spare parts of a Hayward valve suitable for a Astralpool?
No. Each manufacturer designs its valve with its own internal dimensions, so the parts are not interchangeable between brands (Astralpool, Hayward, Coral, QP, Praher, Pentair, Emaux). What is universal is the concept of the star seal and the principle of operation, but the physical part (seal dimensions, number of blades, bell geometry) is specific to each brand. Before ordering, identify the make and model of your valve.
is my Astralpool valve Classic or Flat Top? How do I tell the difference?
Three key visual differences:
- Astralpool Classic ("traditional" model): has a handle that protrudes high in height and a "two-tier" design (the handle is elevated above the valve body). It is the most common in filters installed in standard housings.
- Astralpool Flat Top ("compact" model): it has a flatter and more compact head ("single level"), intended for small underground housings (such as the Ramses model from Astralpool) or technical rooms with little space between the filter and the ceiling.
- Astralpool bayonet: it uses a screwless fastening system (bayonet locking type "snap and twist").
This distinction is critical when ordering spare parts: although visually the internal parts look similar, the anchoring and the length of the handle stem are different on the Flat Top compared to the Classic. If in doubt, send a photo to the technical team.
what parts are most frequently changed on a selector valve?
In order of rotation:
1. Star seal (every 4-7 seasons depending on use): by far the most replaced part. 2. Selector handle (every 8-12 seasons, only if broken). 3. Linkage assembly / straight linkage (very long life, only replaced if leaks appear in the connections). 4. Inner bell (very long life, only if abrasive sand damage occurs). 5. Spring (very long life, only if it loses tension or rusts).
The top cover and main body are structural parts that are rarely replaced: if damaged, it is usually more worthwhile to replace the entire valve.
how often should I check the selector valve?
In residential environments with normal use, every 2-3 years is a good frequency for preventive revision, or when the classic symptom of water leaking down the drain appears. In professional environments (community pools, hotels), annual inspection is reasonable. The points to inspect in each revision:
- Continuous trickle of water down the drain in the "Filter" position (star seal at the end of its life).
- Hard or excessively loose handle (deformed star seal or missing spring).
- External leakage through the body or connections (fitting gasket or crack in the body).
- Visible cracks in the outer plastic.
can I change the star seal myself?
Yes, it is an accessible operation for home users, although it requires patience:
1. Stop pump and close stopcocks before and after the valve (if you have one; if not, drain the filter). 2. Remove the top cover (top screws and handle). 3. Remove the internal assembly (shaft + bell). The star seal is usually stuck by pressure to the bell or base. 4. Identify the new star seal: it must match exactly in number of blades, dimensions and shape with the old one. 5. Clean the base where the gasket rests (remove sand or debris). 6. Apply a little Vaseline or lubricant suitable for EPDM gaskets on the new gasket. 7. Reassemble everything in reverse order, making sure that the spring is well positioned and the lever fits in the positions. 8. Test all 6 positions before starting the pump: the handle should go smoothly through all of them.
Approximate time: 30-60 minutes. If you have any doubts or the internal assembly does not come out easily, refer to the technical service.
when is it worth replacing the complete valve instead of repairing?
Cases where it pays to replace the complete valve:
- Crack in the main body (not reliably repairable; withstands pressure).
- Multiple internal damages (bell + gasket + spring + handle damaged at the same time): the cost of parts is close to that of a new valve.
- Very old valves with yellowish and brittle plastics: even if there are no visible cracks, material fatigue is high and the next maintenance operation may break it.
- Change of configuration (from Classic to Flat Top, for example, due to refurbishment of the technical room).
Cases where it pays to repair:
- Star seal alone, with everything else in good condition (most cases).
- Broken handle with the rest of the assembly in good condition.
- Leakage through connection with valve in good condition.
do selector valves work with salt chlorination?
Yes, all selector valves on the market (Astralpool, Hayward, Coral, QP, Praher) are designed to withstand salt chlorination at typical residential concentrations (3-6 g/l). The bodies are made of high chemical resistance ABS plastic and the internal hardware is usually made of AISI-316 stainless steel. As in any element of the installation, the points to watch out for with salt are the external screws (in some old zinc-plated models, which oxidize) and the connection links/raccords to metallic piping, if there are any.
Swimming Pool Selector Valve Replacement Parts: Maximum Efficiency and Durability for your System
At Quimipool, we are committed to preventive maintenance as the best strategy to ensure the proper functioning of the selector valves and avoid problems in the pool filtration system. Proper care not only prolongs the life of the components, but also optimizes maintenance costs and avoids major problems.
why choose original spare parts for selector valves?
Choosing original spare parts brings key advantages such as:
- Maximum compatibility: Perfect fit and guaranteed operation with your selector valve.
- Increased operating efficiency: Quickly restores optimum water filtration and circulation capacity.
- Durability and resistance: Manufactured with quality materials that resist chemical and mechanical wear.
- Maintenance savings: Significantly reduce time and money spent on major repairs.
how do selector valves and their spare parts work?
The selector valve controls the flow of water to different functions of the filtration system (filtration, flushing, rinsing, recirculation, emptying or shut-off). Spare parts ensure that this selection and operation is performed without leaks and with the right pressure, guaranteeing a constant and efficient performance.
Main features of the spare parts for selector valves
- Star" type gaskets: Essential to maintain internal sealing, preventing leakage and ensuring a tight seal when changing functions. It is placed between the bell and the base of the valve.
- Selector handles: Facilitate comfortable and safe handling when changing valve functions. Made of reinforced plastic.
- Springs: Provide the necessary tension for correct operation. They allow the different valve positions to remain firm and ensure a tight seal when changing functions. They are generally made of stainless steel to resist corrosion and wear caused by exposure to water and chemicals.
- Bell: Internal part that allows the water to be redirected, making it possible to achieve the positions that a selector valve has.
- Transparent viewers: They allow to visualize the water that we take to drain.
- Screws, springs and accessories: They guarantee the stability and safe fixing of the valve, essential for a smooth and safe operation.
Detailed comparison between common spare parts
| Spare part | Main functionalists | Typical materials | Approximate service life | Signs of need for replacement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spider seal | Prevent internal leakage | Silicone rubber | 5 - 6 years | Visible leaks, sealing difficulties |
| Selector knob | Facilitate function selections | Reinforced plastic, metal | 3 - 5 years | Difficult to handle, breakage |
| Transparent display | Visual monitoring | Tough acrylic | 3 - 6 years | opacity, visible cracks |
| Screws and springs | Fixing and stability | Stainless steel | 5 - 8 years | Corrosion, frequent loosening |
Buying Guide: What is the best replacement for you?
This part is in charge of directing the water flow in different functions, such as filtration, washing, rinsing or emptying. Therefore, a bad choice can cause compatibility and installation problems.
Compatibility with your filter: Make and Model
The first key point is to buy the same brand and model of the selector valve you already have installed. This will avoid compatibility problems and installation modifications, which could generate additional costs
Connection type: Side or top
Selector valves can have two types of connection to the filter:
- Side selector valve: it is installed on the side of the filter, connected by piping. It is the most common model in large capacity filters.
- Top selector valve: It is attached to the top of the filter. It is usually found in compact systems and small pools.
Each manufacturer designs its valves with specific characteristics, such as the connection diameter or the arrangement of the water inlets and outlets. Therefore, if you need a replacement, the ideal is to opt for a valve identical to the one you already use.
Connection diameter
- Selector valves are manufactured in different connection diameters to adapt to different piping systems. The most common are: 1" 1/2 Inch: For small and medium size pools.
- 2 "Inches: For larger pools or installations with powerful pumps.
It is essential to make sure that the diameter of the new valve matches the diameter of the existing installation.
