can't backwash or waste

[dalejanus]

Update:
This morning we again tried backwash and waste, same result. The pump is straining, and I keep shutting off after a few seconds to avoid blowing the fuse (uhh, actually popping the breaker, which is in the basement, etc etc).

On filter, the pump starts normally in under 1/2 second.
I did try halfway between filer and waste, no luck.


I ran a complete check and TOOK NOTES!

My filter has, clockwise
Filter
Waste
Closed
Backwash
Recirculate
Rinse

The pump works ok on
Filter
Closed
Recirculate



But the good news is the pools went from pea green to sea foam green. We could see a dark clump on the bottom and got a bunch of leaves out.

Then I tried backwash one more time and it worked! I ran it until the water looked clear. Of course, nothing is connected to my fancy new french drain, so my yard is full of water again. (the drain should clear it in an hour or two)

So we are bleaching away and vacuuming the bottom.

I am starting to suspect the valve. Maybe I should replace the whole filter, it's at least 15years old.

[Pool Clown]

I agree with Al. Something is not right. There are two ways to put the handle on the valve. The right way, and 180 off. One thing that is strange is that you say you can get flow when the valve is in close position. You're not supposed to be able to do that.

Just to be on the same page with you, when you are in filter, what port is the handle over?

[dalejanus]

The handle is 180 off,

I meant to say the pump does not sound funny and blow the fuse on filter,closed and recirculate. I did not stick my hand in front of the return to see if any water was moving when it was on closed.

I'll take some pictures tomorrow.

[Poconos]

Yeah, you need a pressure gauge. Will tell a lot. Also, NEVER run the pump with the handle between positions. Good chance you will destroy the spider gasket. If any spoke is loose the flow may lift it out of the channel then when you move to one of the positions....squash. Yes, not unusual for water to drain out the waste line with the pump off on an AG pool. Gravity and siphoning.
Al