One of the most common problems pool owners run across when maintaining and serving their swimming pool is a leaking backwash valve. The backwash valve is the valve which is mounted on either the top or side of your filter tank and are specifically used clean sand filters or DE filters. One of the most popular filter manufactures in the world is Hayward Pool Products who also makes quite a few backwash valves. Based on the Hayward valve you have the fix varies slightly. This guide will help you determine which Hayward valve you have and then determine the proper fix for your situation.
The first step you will take when determining how to fix your valve will be to obtain the model # of your valve. Typically this is located on the label on the top of the valve, normally there is a box named model no. and the valve # will be located in this box. The majority of Hayward valve part #’s start with this prefix SP7
If you are having trouble finding the valve # on the label then you may be able to find a SP or SPX part # molded into the plastic of the body of the valve or the handle. Feel free to post a comment at the bottom of this guide with as much information about your filter as possible and we should be able to help identify your valve. Helpful information for us would be any part #’s off of the valve, the filter manufacture name, the filter model name, filter model #, filter square footage, number of positions the valve can be set to, plumbing size going into the valve and filter type (i.e. sand filter or D.E filter). Any or all of this information will help out a lot.
If you have one of the following Hayward valves which is leaking then the appropriate fix would be to replace the spider gasket within the valve. Here is a detailed guide on How to Replace a spider gasket, this guide will walk you through all the steps needed to fix your backwash valve.
The following 1.5" Hayward valves can be fixed by simply replacing the spider gasket. The appropriate spider gasket for the valves below is the SPX0710XD.
SP711-13, SP710XALL, SP7122, SP7121, SPX0710X32, SP0710X62, SP0710XR50
The following 2" Hayward valves can be fixed by simply replacing the spider gasket. The appropriate spider gasket for the valves below is the SPX0715XD with the exception of the SP0740DE which uses the SPX0740D spider gasket.
SP715ALL, SPX715X32, SP0715X62, SP0715XR50, SP071621, SP071620T, SP0740DE
If you have any of the model #'s above then purchase the SPX0710XD or SPX0715XD spider gasket and move on to our How to Replace a spider gasket guide for easy step by step instructions on replacing the gasket.
If you have the SP0714T valve or any other model #'s then move on to step # 4 of this guide.
The most common Hayward backwash valve is the SP0714T valve which is used on many of the Hayward top mount sand filters. If you have the SP0714T valve then the spider gasket cannot be replaced as it comes glued into the diverter on the valve. The appropriate fix for a leaking SP0714T valve would be to replace the diverter (part # SPX0714CA) which comes with the spider gasket glued into it. This is an easy enough fix, you would just need to remove the cover and handle assembly from the current valve and and swap out with the new diverter.
The last style of Hayward valve is called a slide valve or plunger valve. The two most common model #'s for this valve are the SP0410X602S and the SP0410X502S. If you have either of these model #'s then the appropriate fix would be replace the gaskets within the valve using the following valve tune up kit There are also a few other fixes the Hayward Slide valve which have detailed in the guides below:
How to maintain a Hayward slide valve
How to replace a Hayward slide valve handle & piston assembly
How to replace a Hayward slide valve O-ring
If you are still having trouble determining the fix for your Hayward backwash valve then please comment below with the information indicated in step #2 and we will let you know the appropriate fix. Also feel free to call us toll free at 1-877-372-6038 or connect with us on Live Chat with any questions.
Inyopools Posted: 05/18/2018 17:17 PM Inyo Product Specialist
My guess would be that the spider gasket is already pinched. Make sure you only turn the valve handle when the pump is off. Also, only turn the valve in one direction. This means always turn it clockwise or counterclockwise.
Don Nelsonb Posted: 05/18/2018 10:33 AM
I replaced the Hayward multiport valve and it still leaking bad out the backwash. Any ideas?
Inyopools Posted: 05/09/2018 17:44 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Hello Helen - The spider gasket in your valve probably needs to be replaced. The replacement gasket for the Hayward SP0710XR50 is part number 4700-10X.
Helen Posted: 05/09/2018 17:18 PM
I have. Spo710xr50 Hayward vari-flo valve. When I put it on the recirculating setting the backwash hose leaks. How do I fix this?
Inyopools Posted: 05/08/2018 14:17 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Hello Steve - The S220T2 comes with a 2" multiport valve. The spider gasket for that valve is part number 4701-10.
Steve Posted: 05/04/2018 18:16 PM
Hi again. The filter model number is S220T2 - Hayward Pro Series High Rate Sand Filter. Thanks!
Inyopools Posted: 05/04/2018 17:02 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Hello Steve - What is the model of your filter? This should help us determine the exact valve model.
InyoPools Posted: 05/04/2018 7:51 AM Inyo Product Specialist
Hi, Chase. I haven't came across an issue like this. It does sound like something is either installed wrong or like you said sized wrong. To resolve this issue, you can either take the Key Cover Assembly completely apart and inspect it or replace the key cover assembly. We be glad to assist you with resolving this issue. You can email us pictures of your valve along with the model number to upload@inyopools.com.
Steve Posted: 05/03/2018 20:24 PM
I also have a leak out of the waste port.Model no. has faded on label. Molded number under handle is SP-710X-F, while molded number on bottom of seal is SP0714C.
Inyopools Posted: 05/03/2018 16:15 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Hello Gabi - The 6 spoke spider gasket used on SP710 valves from 1969-1975 is part number 4700-10. The 5 spoke gasket used on models since then is part number 4700-10X.
Gabi Posted: 05/03/2018 11:15 AM
Hi, I have a Hayward vari flo Sp710 from the 1970ies. What kind of spider gasket do I need?
Chase Posted: 04/28/2018 12:01 PM
I have a sp740de that had a busted spider gasket and what I assumed was a bad spring since my handle was floppy. Turns out the spring was fine, but I replaced it anyway. The key assembly works fine when it isn't attached to the valve body, spring compresses diffuser rotates, spring decompresses and pushes it back down. But the act of attaching it to the valve body it compresses the spring completely and the handle goes floppy. So I have a complete seal and it works fine, but every time I'm changing the valve position i'm dragging the spider gasket along pretty hard since I can't actually lift it. I don't have any extra washers around the spring or anything like that, it's almost like something is sized wrong. Have you seen this before? Thanks, love your site.
Inyopools Posted: 03/05/2018 13:46 PM Inyo Product Specialist
John - Yes, you have a SP714 multiport valve.
John Posted: 03/02/2018 11:15 AM
My numbers are also fading, and the only thing I can see is SP714-A on the side. Does that mean I fall into the SP714 category for trying to fix the backwash leaking issue? Thanks! --John
Inyopools Posted: 02/10/2018 23:35 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Richard Reksc - This handle is common to several multiport valves. The best way to identify your MPV is to unscrew the top valve assembly and try to match the spider gasket. The SP0714 has 4 spokes, the SP0710, SP0711 and SP0712 have 5 spokes.
Richard Reksc Posted: 02/08/2018 15:14 PM
I have a Hayward Vari Flo Backwash the model number and serial numbers on the face are not legible. The handle has a number on it SPO710Z20. It has 1.5 in plumbing lines, there are 6 valve positions, it is connected to a 36 Square Foot DE Filter. The valve leaks a few drops a minute. I am trying to figure out what I would need to replace to stop the leak but I can not see the model number.
Inyopools Posted: 12/31/2017 13:41 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Eric - 1. If you have a damaged spider gasket, I do not think that would cause a problem when the pump is off. 2. Water leaking at the shaft would be caused by a worn shaft seal in the Impeller and face plate. 3. It depends on the valve. Some valves require two but others require one. If you take your valve apart and only see one washer, you can save the second washer that is included. From the parts list for SP0716, it looks like you only have one washer placed above the spring.
Eric Posted: 12/28/2017 11:55 AM
I have 3 questions please. 1. My valve is in filter position and I have a closed valve on the waste pipe. Can a leaking spider gasket cause air suction when pump is closed? When my pump is off I hear air suction at the valve shaft. 2. Can a leaking spider gasket be the cause of water leaking at the shaft, or can this only be caused by defective shaft o-rings? 3. I notice that the metal washers with the shaft spring come in a set of two. I opened my valve and could see only 1 metal washer, on top of the spring. Is this possible or should there always be another washer underneath the spring. Thanks. My valve is SP071620T
Inyopools Posted: 11/26/2017 12:12 PM Inyo Product Specialist
freddy - Please call one of our service reps at 407-834-2200. They will be happy to assist you and tell you where to send the pictures of the MPV.
freddy Posted: 11/25/2017 16:29 PM
I have a multiport valve with no model number, the only numbers on the valve body is 27-2599 6/98. I can send photos of everything, please advise, thanks
Inyopools Posted: 11/22/2017 10:47 AM Inyo Product Specialist
James - I would replace the spider gasket first to stop the leaking from the backwash port. See our guide on "How to Replace a Spider Gasket on a Multiport Valve". Then if you have water coming up through the handle, you may have to replace the o-rings on the shaft. See our guide on "How To Replace a Pool Multiport Valve Spring" for information on accessing these O-rings on the shaft of the key assembly.
James Posted: 11/16/2017 8:59 AM
I have a Hayward SP0715XR50 backwash filter that is leaking from the backwash port and around the selector handle. Which steps above apply and which parts do I need for the repair? Thank you!
Bill Posted: 10/18/2017 4:53 AM
A follow up from my previous comment. I've looked at the replacement instructions. I don't have a Winterise position. Mine are filter, waste, closed, backwash, recirc and rinse. Which is the equivalent to use when disassembling? Thanks!
Bill Posted: 10/18/2017 4:44 AM
My model number is SP710. Am I correct in assuming that the part listed for the 1.5" models in point 3 is the one for me? Thanks!
Inyopools Posted: 10/13/2017 15:52 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Wendy - Yes, SP714 is the same valve as as SP714T.
Wendy Posted: 10/10/2017 9:30 AM
Is SP714 the same as SP714T?
Inyopools Posted: 09/03/2017 12:53 PM Inyo Product Specialist
Mike S. - I'm not sure what your question is. Are you asking if the leak can be fixed by replacing the top Key Cover and Handle Assembly or if you have to replace the whole MPV? Let me start by saying there are three major replacement parts for the common Hayward MPVs: the whole Multiport Valve (MPV) itself; the Key, Cover, and Handle Assembly (KCHA) and the Key Assembly (KA) itself. The KCHA is the upper half of the MPV and the KA is the lower half of the KCHA. Most repairs are fixed by replacing only the KA. In your question, you mix replacement parts between the SP0714T MPV and the SP0710 MPV. For the SP0714T MPV, the KCHA is SPX0714BA and its KA is SPX0714CA. For the SP0710 MPV, the KCHA is SPX0710BA17 and the KA is SPX0710XD. If you are asking how to tell the difference between a SP0714T MPV and a SP0710 MPV, the gasket on the SP0714T MPV has 4 spokes and the gasket on the SP0710 MPV has 5 spokes. Also, in your question, you say water is being pushed to purge (the waste port) when in filter mode. If you still have water returning to the return ports and you also have water leaking out the waste port, you probably have a damaged spider gasket that you will have to replace. If you only have water pouring out the waste port and you recently replaced your KA, the KA may be installed 180 degrees wrong. See Step 14 of our guide on “How To Replace a Pool Multiport Valve Spring”.
Mike S Posted: 08/29/2017 11:15 AM
When valve is set to filter I'm getting water pushed to purge. Losing water and I'm curious if this is the multiport sp-714t or the Hayward SPX0710XBA17 Key Cover and Handle Assembly Replacement for Hayward Multiport Valves. How would you tell?
Inyopools Posted: 08/28/2017 13:01 PM Inyo Product Specialist
k - Here is the link to the SP0714g11 replacement O-rings.
k Posted: 08/27/2017 10:50 AM
I am looking for replacement o rings for the hayward vari-flo xl valve sp0714g11. I am not finding anything that matches that. If you could advise that would be great thanks
Inyopools Posted: 07/24/2017 12:58 PM Inyo Product Specialist
David - Don't have part # sp0714g11m in our system. The internet has it but it seems to be the whole valve. The manf code for an SP0714T key assembly is SPX0714CA.
David Posted: 07/22/2017 11:48 AM
Just replaced my key assembly on a hayward variflo valve. filter will not backwash at all and there is a slow leak from the backwash hose when the valve is in the filter position. Part# sp0714tx. my pool store sold me replacment part# sp0714g11m. said part would work...? Could this be my problem or am I missing something? Thanks
Inyopools Posted: 07/03/2017 11:13 AM Inyo Product Specialist
DGV - Ignore the end numbers/letters. Your MPV is an SP715.
DGV Posted: 07/01/2017 17:12 PM
I have a Hayward Multiport Valve but not sure of the model number as the mark at the top have faded. There is however a number on the body which read SP-715-A 4. Can you tell me what model it is?
Inyopools Posted: 06/27/2017 16:06 PM Inyo Product Specialist
DV - There are two O-rings on the shaft of the key assembly. Doesn't look like they are provided with the new key assembly. Might transfer them from the old one.
DV Posted: 06/27/2017 12:08 PM
I rebuilt the inside of my hayward valve & replaced the spider gasket. Water is leaking up through the handle. Any suggestions?
Inyopools Posted: 06/27/2017 11:09 AM Inyo Product Specialist
Anonymous (leaking MPV) - If the "Waste" port is not sealed when you are in "Filter" mode, you could be dumping a lot of water depending on the rip in the MPV spider gasket. Take a look at the spider gasket and replace it if necessary. See our guide on "How to Replace a Spider Gasket on a Multiport Valve".
Anonymous Posted: 06/26/2017 9:27 AM
in ground pool was fine this season for 2 days after opening..til I backwashed!!! would the backwash valve leak enough to lower my water considerably in my pool?
Inyopools Posted: 06/22/2017 11:48 AM Inyo Product Specialist
Jim - Here is the link to your SS240 Jacuzzi filter, Splash Pak - 16, 18.5, & 24" Sand Filters. Yours is the 24" diameter model. It originally used the DVK7 Multiport Valve (MPV) but may have been converted over to the more common SP0714T MPV. You MPV should match one of these.
Jim Posted: 06/20/2017 19:58 PM
My waste port is leaking but I could not determine my valve model # in order to know which spider gasket I need. the filter manufacture name-Jacuzzi, the filter model name-FloPro, filter model #SS240, filter square footage-3.1, number of positions the valve can be set to-6, plumbing size going into the valve-1 1/2"and filter type-sand filter