It is very common to have a small drip on your filter system either at installation or at opening time in future years. Most leaks are easily corrected and should not be a concern. At installation time, the installer cannot pressure test the system properly because there is no water in the pool. At opening time, the filter system must be set up again, creating an opportunity for leaks. Most leaks occur at the hose to fitting connections or where the fittings themselves thread into the system or at the drain plug. In most cases, a simple turn of a screwdriver will solve it. The customer correcting a leak himself or herself will not in any way affect the warranty on the system. Family Leisure does everything possible to keep costs down and provide a great product at a great price. This is one way that the customer can help Family Leisure to continue to do that.
- When correcting a leak on a hose to fitting connection, the hose should be pushed up to the last barb on a barbed fitting and as far as possible on step down fittings. The clamp should be tightened with a flat head screwdriver or nut driver and located on the barbs or at the lip of the hose on step down fittings. If the hose itself is leaking due to a hole, the hose will have to be replaced. When replacing a hose, make sure to turn off system and plug the returns and skimmer. This will allow the hose to be removed with minimal water loss. (Note: the system may have to be re-primed before starting back up.)
- Leaks where the fitting threads into the system can often be corrected by simply tightening the fitting without removing the hose. The system will need to be turned off and the hose loosened to allow it to remain still while the fitting turns. When this does not work, the system will need to be turned off and the skimmer and returns plugged before beginning. Then, remove the hose and unthread the fitting. Put 8 to 10 wraps of teflon tape on the threads of the fitting and screw back in. Be sure to turn it in straight and not cross thread. The fitting should be hand tightened and add a ½ turn with a pair of channel locks.
- Leaks at the drain plug will normally just require tightening. If this does not correct the leak, turn off the system and plug the returns and skimmer. Then, remove the drain cap and check the o-ring or flat gasket, depending on the design, for any damage. If they appear to be in good order, try simply wrapping the threads on the tank 8 to 10 times with teflon tape and replace drain plug.
In conclusion, filter systems for above ground pools are relatively simple and correcting leaks on them is well within the capabilities of the average customer. In addition, any time a customer corrects their own leak, it saves time for the customer and helps increase efficiency and keep costs down on everything from floats and chemicals to liners.
