Ria Tesselaar
1. Bypass filter media before adding leak sealer to water. For sand filters, set the filter valve to recirculate. For cartridge or DE filters, remove the elements from the filter tank, then proceed to circulate through the empty tank.
2. With the pump running, add the leak sealer slowly through the skimmer or in front of any other suction intake.
3. After adding the leak sealer, adjust the suction to the main drain. If this is not possible, use the pool vacuum by placing it in deepest part of the pool and connecting it to a normal vacuum connection. Set the filter valve to the normal vacuum position.
4. After the leak has stopped, and given the proper time to cure (24-48 hours), you may return to normal filtration. For sand filters, set the filter valve to filter and resume normal operation. Backwash any unused leak sealer. For other types, reinstall the filter into the tank and resume operation. Rinse any unused leak sealer from the filter as required.
Ria Tesselaar is vice-president of Marlig Industries in Niagara Falls, Ont., a manufacturer of Fix-A-Leak sealers for swimming pools, spas and hot tubs. She can be reached at marlig@itcanada.com.
