48-Frame versus a 56-Frame motor?

48-Frame motors are basically pool motors, not designed for the rigors of hot tubs with their high-pressure massage jets. Never-the-less, several of the best known hot tub manufacturers continue to use 48-Frame motors, as do discount brands including Leisure Bay.

Specifically “Frame” refers to the diameter of the armature in the motor. Although 2 motors may have the same horsepower rating, a 56-Frame motor will be 40% larger. It will also run cooler and last longer. However they cost more, hence many spa companies use the cheaper 48-Frame motors knowing they will last just about as long as their warranties. Motors run around $450 – $550, add in labor and these manufacturers & their dealers have locked in additional profits at your expense. To make matters worse, we have found dealers telling customers their spa brands use 56-Frame motors, when they’re not.

Spa pump parts are available at www.waterwayparts.com

Why did my weir flap break?

The weir flap is a moving part that floats up and down with the level of the water. They are normally held in place with two small plastic tabs. Over time, or under extreme corrosive water conditions, the plastic tabs weaken and break. Several different weir doors are available at www.waterwayparts.com

Do I need to lubricate my chlorinator lid o-ring?

Yes. The lid o-ring should be lubricated at least once per month to maintain its elasticity.

A silicone-based lubricant should be used as it holds up better to the chlorine gas. Silicone or Teflon based o-ring lubricant is recommended on all o-rings used on Waterway product.  Parts   www.waterwayparts.com

Why is there sand at the bottom of my pool?

The sand you are using could be too small. Sand that is too small can travel through the laterals in the bottom of your filter and back to the pool. #20 silica sand, 0.45-0.55mm in size, is required. This can be obtained through your local pool/spa professional or dealer.

Prior to adding sand, remember to always remove a lateral (it unthreads or unlocks) from the hub assembly at the bottom of the filter. Try putting some of the sand you are going to add inside the lateral. Other than debris sand (fines), 99% of the sand should stay inside the lateral. If most of the sand comes through the holes of the lateral, the sand is too small.

Your pump may be too large or the sand level too high in the filter. When the filter is backwashing. the water flow can cause the sand to rise high enough and overflow into the standpipe, which will allow the sand back into the pool. Refer to the Waterway owners guide or the filter label for the correct amount of sand for your filter.
A “cracked” lateral can also cause this. If you have just replaced sand in your filter, you may have damaged the laterals. When adding new sand you must cover the laterals with water to protect them when the new sand is being added to the filter tank.

Another common cause is the removal of the “old” sand. If you dumped the tank over, you may have also damaged the laterals.
All the Waterway laterals ( there are several different types) are available at http://www.waterwayparts.com

Why will my multi-port valve handle not stay up?

Baquapure, Eliminator, or Aquastar Valves…..

The handle is kept in position by a handle spring. The tension on the handle helps keep the gasket seated and the water flowing in the correct direction. The spring may need to be replaced. Part # 827-0002  at  www.waterwayparts.com

Sand filter parts

Product Notes:
Also Sold as Aquastar by Marathon (Grey Tank)
Also Sold as the Cyclone by Leisure Bay (Black Tank)
Also Sold as the Sparko Filter (Grey or Black Tank)
Also Sold as Baqua Pure Filter (Blue Tank)

We carry the parts for these sand filters.

www.waterwayparts.com