Multiport Valve
A multiport valve is the control valve on a sand or DE filter that selects between filter, backwash, rinse, waste, and other operational modes.
Definition
A multiport valve is the control valve on a sand or DE filter that selects between filter, backwash, rinse, waste, and other operational modes.
Typical Values: Always turn pump off before changing valve position
In Plain Language
Multiport valves have typically 6 positions: Filter (normal operation), Backwash (reverse flow to clean), Rinse (forward flow to waste to re-seat sand after backwash), Waste (bypass filter, direct flow to waste for vacuuming or draining), Recirculate (circulates without filtering), and Closed. The valve must never be rotated when the pump is running — always turn the pump off first.
Why It Matters
Operating the multiport valve with the pump running causes severe damage to the valve O-ring and face. This is one of the most common causes of filter valve failure.
Typical Values
Always turn pump off before changing valve position
Last reviewed: 2026-06-01