Ortega Spring Check Valave Noisey?

[lweljwel]

My Paramount in floor cleaning system is not working as it used to. There are two ports 3+1 and 6 (I think they are called).

The problem is with two of the four zones in the six port controller. The two "problem" zones are in either the elevated spa or the elevated "play area".

The pressure gauge on the lid of the controller port shows reduced pressure on both elevated zones.

It seems to me that the Ortega Spring Check valve attached at the base of the 6-port controller is "chattery". Is that noise "normal" or could it indicate

a problem with the check valve? )This is a 1997 high quality system). If it could be a problem, is there a way to trouble shoot that Ortega Valve?

I can't seem to find any information online regarding this issue. The pressure drop is not attributatble to any other cause and I have become infinitely

familiar with this complex system...other than the chattering "Ortega Spring Check Valve".

Thanks in advance for any assistance!

[Pool Clown]

Spas, stairs, or any other "Zone" that has more than one pop up may show decreased pressure in the module because those zones have more pop ups. Having more pop ups (per zone) = more of a bleed off of available pressure. I would consider that normal, unless it didn't show that much drop earlier (1997).

The check valve is to keep the water in the spa or another body of water higher than the pool, from siphoning back to the pool when the cleaner is off. If you didn't have the check valve, the water would travel backwards in through the pop ups in the spa, through the module, and leak out through one or more pop ups in the pool.

Most all those Ortega check valves rattle or buzz once in there lives. If it goes on long enough, the spool will wear a groove in the cylinder, and in some cases will make a new spool stick and not hold any water back any longer, prompting a Jandy check valve replacement.

[lweljwel]

Wow! Thanks for the quick response. The reduced pressure and performace are "new".

I have cleaned and checked all heads and nozzles. The "chattering" of the valve occurs when at least one of the two "problem" zones

is running. And only when the 6-port unit is operational. The port has been replaced. There just seems to be a connection between the

noisey valve and the reduced performance. Other than the reduced pressure, the only other evidence of reduced performance is the

debris and "dirt" left in the "problem" zones. The 6-port unit is still under warranty and I have considered exchanging it. There is no

evidence of malfunction on the unit. The gushing and "chattering" noises seem new. The pressure on the 3+1 unit are very high as they

should be.

The noise from the Ortega valve is (now) constant when the "problem" zones are operating. I don't recall such audible activity previously.

Very frustrating.

[Pool Clown]

Was the 3+1 replaced or inspected (removed from the housing)? The 6 ports are fool proof meaning they can go back together in any position. The 3+1 has a particular alignment and it must go in a certain way. Take both modules out and make sure the all the white disks are up against the black base plate (closed). If any are opened or hanging down, the module must be replaced. If possible, take a pic of the underside of the module(s) when you take them out, so i can see if they are ok.

[lweljwel]

I know more about the Paramount modules; popups and hydraulics than any person I have talked to, other than the Paramount Tech 800 #.

My problem is with the Ortega Spring Valve. I am not familiar with signs of failure with that piece of equipment.

[Pool Clown]

I know more about the Paramount modules; popups and hydraulics than any person I have talked to, other than the Paramount Tech 800 #.

Excuse me! Just thought i could help you.

Take the insides of the check valve out(spool and spring), replace the cap, and run the cleaner, and see if pressures return to normal...

[lweljwel]

Oh! YOU ARE AN INCREDIBLE HELP!!!!!!! Please don't take that last email wrong!!!!

I think we spent some time together last summer "learning" abount the In Floor system

I'll go work on the Ortega right now1

THANKS!