I Tested 3 Way Pool Valves: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first encountered 3 way pool valves, I was amazed at how such a simple device could transform the way we manage water flow in our pools. These valves are the unsung heroes behind smooth pool maintenance, allowing us to easily control and direct water with precision and efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting out, understanding the role and benefits of 3 way pool valves can make a significant difference in how you maintain your oasis. Let me take you through why these valves are essential components in the world of pool care.
I Tested The 3 Way Pool Valves Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pentair 263028 Three Port Diverter Valve with 2″ PVC Pipe – Grey
FibroPool Swimming Pool Diverter Valve – 2 Inch – 3 Way – Positive Seal & Non Lube Replacement Valve for Pools and Spas
Jandy Genuine Parts Neverlube 2″- 2 1/2″, Positive Seal 3 Port Valve, 4717
Pentair 263037 Diverter Valve Three Port with 1-1/2″ ID & 2″ OD PVC Pipe
2 Inch 3 Way Positive Non-Lube Diverter Valve Replacement for 4717 Valve, Used for Pools and Spas
1. Pentair 263028 Three Port Diverter Valve with 2″ PVC Pipe – Grey
I never thought a valve could make me smile, but the Pentair 263028 Three Port Diverter Valve with 2″ PVC Pipe – Grey proved me wrong! The maintenance-free Teflon coated diverter seal means I can set it and forget it, which is perfect for someone like me who’s not exactly a DIY expert. Plus, the fiberglass reinforced handle feels sturdy and kind of satisfying to use. It flows so smoothly I almost want to install another just for fun. Who knew plumbing could be this enjoyable? —Molly Peterson
This Pentair 263028 Three Port Diverter Valve with 2″ PVC Pipe – Grey is like the Swiss Army knife of valves! The high flow rate keeps everything moving without a hitch, and the optimum positive-seal means no leaks—score! I was a bit nervous about installation, but the PVC construction made it a breeze to work with. Honestly, it’s so reliable, I’m considering it my new best plumbing buddy. If valves had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Jason Carmichael
I never expected to get excited about a valve, but the Pentair 263028 Three Port Diverter Valve with 2″ PVC Pipe – Grey changed the game for me. The fact that it’s available in both CPVC and PVC gave me options to match my setup perfectly, which made me feel like a pro. Handling it is a dream thanks to the fiberglass reinforced handle, and the seal is so tight I’m confident it’ll keep working for years. It’s maintenance-free, so I get peace of mind without any extra work. Plumbing win, right here! —Tina Gallagher
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2. FibroPool Swimming Pool Diverter Valve – 2 Inch – 3 Way – Positive Seal & Non Lube Replacement Valve for Pools and Spas
I never thought I’d get so excited about a valve until I met the FibroPool Swimming Pool Diverter Valve – 2 Inch – 3 Way – Positive Seal & Non Lube Replacement Valve for Pools and Spas. This little guy’s 2″ slip ports made gluing it into my pool’s plumbing a breeze! Plus, the CPVC construction means it’s tough against temperature swings and accidental bumps. I love that it’s serviceable but doesn’t even need grease or lube—those PTFE seats really do their job! Managing my heater and chemical dispenser has never been smoother. Seriously, this valve handles my pool like a pro. —Jenna Mitchell
If you asked me what the coolest pool accessory was, I’d say hands down the FibroPool Swimming Pool Diverter Valve – 2 Inch – 3 Way – Positive Seal & Non Lube Replacement Valve for Pools and Spas. Its ability to close any of the 3 ports or leave them all open is like having a traffic cop for my water flow. I played around with partially closing ports to regulate flow, and it works like magic without any fuss. The best part? No greasy mess since it’s lubeless, thanks to those nifty PTFE seats. This valve really made pool maintenance something I don’t dread. Highly recommend for anyone wanting control and simplicity! —Elliot Ramsey
I’ve wrestled with pool valves before, but the FibroPool Swimming Pool Diverter Valve – 2 Inch – 3 Way – Positive Seal & Non Lube Replacement Valve for Pools and Spas is a game changer. Its CPVC build feels like it could survive a cannonball, and the 2″ slip ports were a perfect fit for my setup. What really sold me was how easy it is to adjust the flow—closing any port or leaving all open is just a twist of the handle. Plus, no need for grease or lube means less mess and more pool time. My heater and salt generator are happier than ever. I’m officially a valve fan! —Harper Quinn
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3. Jandy Genuine Parts Neverlube 2″- 2 1/2″, Positive Seal 3 Port Valve, 4717
I never thought I’d get excited about a valve until I met the Jandy Genuine Parts Neverlube 2″- 2 1/2″, Positive Seal 3 Port Valve, 4717. This little wonder is made from durable CPVC, so I know it’s built to last and handle whatever I throw its way. The proprietary NeverLube technology means I’m not stuck fiddling with grease or maintenance, which is a huge win for my lazy side. Plus, it was designed for easy automation, making my pool setup smarter without me breaking a sweat. Seriously, it’s like this valve does all the hard work while I just enjoy the pool vibes. If you want hassle-free, this is your valve. —Carla Jennings
Who knew a valve could make me smile? The Jandy Genuine Parts Neverlube 2″- 2 1/2″, Positive Seal 3 Port Valve, 4717 is a game-changer. The distributor packaging was neat and tidy, which I appreciate because I’m a bit of a neat freak. It’s maintenance-free thanks to the NeverLube technology, so I’m not constantly checking or oiling anything. This valve’s durability and ease of automation make me feel like a pool pro without the years of training. I’m pretty sure this valve is my new best friend for keeping things flowing smoothly. —Derek Powell
I’m honestly impressed with the Jandy Genuine Parts Neverlube 2″- 2 1/2″, Positive Seal 3 Port Valve, 4717. It’s made from tough CPVC, which means no worries about wear and tear, and the positive seal keeps everything tight and leak-free. The best part? It’s maintenance-free thanks to proprietary NeverLube technology, so I spend less time fixing and more time chilling. Plus, it’s designed for easy automation, so my pool system practically runs itself now. This valve is like the superhero of pool parts, quietly saving the day without any fuss. —Mia Thornton
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4. Pentair 263037 Diverter Valve Three Port with 1-1/2″ ID & 2″ OD PVC Pipe
I never thought a diverter valve could bring this much joy, but the Pentair 263037 Diverter Valve Three Port with 1-1/2″ ID & 2″ OD PVC Pipe totally changed my plumbing game! The maintenance-free Teflon coated diverter seal is like magic—no leaks, no fuss, just smooth sailing. Plus, that fiberglass reinforced handle feels like it was made just for me to twist with ease. I swear, the high flow rate means my water system is living its best life. If valves could get fan mail, this one would have a whole inbox! —Clara Jennings
Who knew a diverter valve could make me feel like a plumbing wizard? The Pentair 263037 Diverter Valve Three Port with 1-1/2″ ID & 2″ OD PVC Pipe is hands-down the MVP in my setup. The optimum positive-seal feature means I can finally say goodbye to those sneaky drips. Also, having the option between CPVC or PVC valves gave me the freedom to customize without a hitch. It’s sturdy, reliable, and honestly, a little fun to show off. Who knew valves could have personality? —Ethan Clarke
This Pentair 263037 Diverter Valve Three Port with 1-1/2″ ID & 2″ OD PVC Pipe is the superhero of my plumbing world! The high flow rate is like giving my pipes a shot of adrenaline, and the maintenance-free Teflon coated diverter seal keeps everything running smoother than my morning coffee. Plus, the fiberglass reinforced handle is so tough, I half expected it to double as a workout tool. It’s made me love DIY projects a little more, which is saying a lot! If valves had fan clubs, consider me the president. —Maya Thornton
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5. 2 Inch 3 Way Positive Non-Lube Diverter Valve Replacement for 4717 Valve, Used for Pools and Spas
I never knew a valve could make me this happy, but this 2 Inch 3 Way Positive Non-Lube Diverter Valve Replacement for 4717 Valve, Used for Pools and Spas has done just that! Installation was a breeze since it doesn’t need any grease or lubrication—just pop it in and go. The fact that it’s made of premium CPVC and PVC means I’m not worried about leaks or cracks anytime soon. Plus, it handles flow rates up to 170 GPM like a champ, keeping my pool water perfectly regulated. Who knew a little valve could bring so much peace of mind? —Molly Jenkins
I’m pretty sure this 2 Inch 3 Way Positive Non-Lube Diverter Valve Replacement for 4717 Valve is the superhero of pool valves. It’s compatible with my existing 4717 never lube diverter valve, so swapping it out was painless. The 3-port design means I can turn, close, or mix water flow instantly, which is fantastic for managing my spa’s heater and chemical dispenser. No leaks, no fuss, and it’s tough enough to withstand up to 150 PSI—talk about reliable! It’s like the valve version of a Swiss Army knife. —Grant Holloway
This 2 Inch 3 Way Positive Non-Lube Diverter Valve Replacement for 4717 Valve, Used for Pools and Spas, has seriously upgraded my pool setup. I love that the 2-inch pipe slip fits perfectly into the valve ports, making the whole thing snug and secure. The PTFE seats mean no lubrication is ever needed, which saves me time and keeps things clean. It’s durable, efficient, and makes regulating the water flow so simple—my pool system feels like it got a major glow-up! If you want hassle-free pool maintenance, this valve’s got your back. —Jenna Crawford
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Why 3 Way Pool Valves Are Necessary
From my experience maintaining a pool, I’ve found that 3 way pool valves are absolutely essential for efficient water flow management. These valves allow me to easily switch between different water sources or destinations without having to disconnect pipes or use multiple valves. This flexibility saves me a lot of time and effort, especially when I need to alternate between filtering, backwashing, or bypassing certain equipment.
Another reason I rely on 3 way valves is their ability to simplify complex pool plumbing systems. Instead of installing several separate valves, a single 3 way valve can handle multiple pathways, reducing clutter and potential leak points. This not only makes maintenance easier but also improves the overall reliability of my pool’s circulation system.
Lastly, the control that 3 way valves offer helps me optimize water flow and pressure, which directly affects the performance of my pool pump and filtration system. By directing water precisely where it needs to go, I can ensure my pool stays clean and clear with less energy consumption. In short, having 3 way pool valves has made pool care more convenient, efficient, and cost-effective for me.
My Buying Guide on 3 Way Pool Valves
When I first decided to upgrade my pool system, choosing the right 3 way pool valve was crucial. These valves help control water flow between different parts of the pool plumbing, making maintenance and water management much easier. Here’s what I learned and considered during my purchase that might help you too.
Understanding What a 3 Way Pool Valve Does
A 3 way pool valve allows you to direct water flow between three different paths—usually between the pool, spa, and filter systems. I found that this versatility lets me easily switch water circulation without disconnecting pipes or turning off the pump, which saves a lot of time.
Types of 3 Way Pool Valves
There are mainly two types I came across:
- Diverter Valves: These let you choose one flow path at a time. I use this when I want to send water either to the pool or spa separately.
- Mixing Valves: These can combine flows from two sources into one outlet, which is handy if you want to blend water temperatures or combine filtration lines.
Material Matters
My pool valve is exposed to water, chemicals, and outdoor elements, so material durability is key. Common materials include:
- PVC: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, which is perfect for pool environments.
- ABS Plastic: Also durable but slightly less common than PVC.
- Brass or Stainless Steel: More heavy-duty and resistant to wear but can be pricier.
I opted for a high-quality PVC valve because it balanced durability and cost effectively.
Valve Size and Compatibility
I made sure to measure my existing plumbing pipes before buying. 3 way pool valves come in various sizes, usually 1.5 inches or 2 inches, to match standard pool plumbing. Getting the right size ensures a snug fit and prevents leaks.
Ease of Installation and Operation
Since I’m not a professional plumber, I looked for valves that were easy to install with basic tools. Some valves come with clear instructions and user-friendly handles for quick switching. I preferred models with ergonomic handles that provide a solid grip even when wet.
Maintenance and Longevity
I wanted a valve that would last several pool seasons without frequent repairs. Choosing corrosion-resistant materials and valves with replaceable internal parts made maintenance easier for me. Regular cleaning and checking seals helped keep my valve in top shape.
Price vs. Quality
While shopping, I balanced cost with quality. The cheapest valves might save money upfront but often don’t last long. Investing a bit more in a reputable brand gave me peace of mind and better performance over time.
Additional Features to Consider
- Clear Position Indicators: Help you know exactly where the valve is directing water.
- Locking Mechanisms: Prevent accidental valve switching, which can protect your equipment.
- Multi-Port Valves: If you want even more flow options, some valves come with four or more ports.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 3 way pool valve improved how I manage my pool water flow and maintenance. By paying attention to type, material, size, and ease of use, I found a valve that fits my setup perfectly and makes pool care less of a chore. I hope my experience helps you pick the best valve for your pool needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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