well after three trips to the dreaded pool store, we completely gave up on this filter and pump. after we replaced one part another broke, literally, this happened three times. (that's what you get for a free filter ) I'm returning all of the parts we bought and looking into a new or like new filter/pump. I just hope this ultimetly helps. the water company told me my main water line is a galvenized pipe and that it would probably cost about a grand to replace. i am at my witts end. but i am determined and stubborn so we'll say where this all goes. thanks waterbear!