Test results post fiasco

[kathgilliam]

And is it safe to run the pump with the filter in poor condition? No bubbles are in the filter basket area...yet. I do have a main drain.

If I put the black valve in position where the handle is straight down and the off label is at 12:00, it just circulates the water through the pump only (and makes it hot, producing the steam I saw the other night I suppose), and the water isn't circulating in the pool? Is that right?

K

[Poolsean]

The valve handle is shaped like a wedge with a handle. The opposite side of the handle is marked OFF. Do not position the valve where this is on the port that goes to the suction of the pump. I believe this is what you describe above to produce steam in the pump basket.

It's safe to run the pump in this condition. It will not do any harm other than recirculate some of the dirt and debris back to the pool.

...and you're welcome for the help.