Pentair multi port valve difference 261055 vs. 261152

[gerjman]

Hi Folks,

Well, my Pentair FNS DE filter is crapping out,starting to crack/leak a bit on the bottom shell, so I'm taking as an excuse to upgrade to a 100sqft Quad DE.

However when pricing that out , I'm disappointing to learn that Pentair says it requires a different multiport valve for the Quad DE (Pentair #261055 versus the #261152 I have now) , so I will have to drop another $150 and replumb that. :grrrr:

I'm especially annoyed there since I just bought a new multiport a year ago as the top of the valve was cracking and the handle/spring was failing, so I bought a new assembly, swapped the top and put the bottom aside for a rainy day if/when the rest of the valve failed. So I guess that 'mostly new' valve then becomes wastage. :sad:

Does anyone know the real difference between these 2 valves, as they are both 7.5" centerline and look about the same. If they say I need the 261055, then I assume I do, but would really like to know what & why the difference.

FYI, If I have to replumb, I might just go ahead and also change over to the Intelliflo VS 011018, not that it really affects this discussion right here, but thought i would mention the combo I'm potentially ending up with in case any caveats/thoughts on that. My main care-abouts there are my electric bill, nicer programmable timer (vs. mechanical intermatic) to sync up more concisely w/ my doser timers (Cl and MA), lower noise, can turnover as slow or fast as i want and set different rate during late night dosing for instance..

thanks,
Greg

 

[JamesW]

One is for regular DE filters and the other is for sand filters and quad de filters.

Basically, one enters the filter at the top hole and the other enters the filter at the bottom hole.

They are not interchangeable.

For a quad de, you really don't need a multiport because they don't backwash well.

The quad de needs to be taken apart and cleaned.

With good maintenance, you should only have to clean once or twice a year.

The only real function that you lose is waste. But, you can install a three way valve between the pump and filter for waste.

 

[gerjman]

One is for regular DE filters and the other is for sand filters and quad de filters.

Basically, one enters the filter at the top hole and the other enters the filter at the bottom hole.

They are not interchangeable.

For a quad de, you really don't need a multiport because they don't backwash well.

The quad de needs to be taken apart and cleaned.

With good maintenance, you should only have to clean once or twice a year.

The only real function that you lose is waste. But, you can install a three way valve between the pump and filter for waste.

Thanks, that's what I needed to know!!

- - - Updated - - -

One followup, is it true that Pentair does not honor their warranty if you install yourself? I've read this about the pumps, I assume same applies regarding Quad DE. If true, I guess it saves them a lot of trouble verifying proper installs for warranty work, and protects their dealers/installers. Kind of makes DYI a gamble I guess...

 

[JamesW]

Warranty - Pool and Spa Product Registration & Warranty - Pentair

 

[gerjman]

Thanks