There are numerous pool valve options. Two of the best, however, are from the Jandy Pro Series: the space saver and the regular never-lube diverter valves.
As the name implies, the Jandy space saver is perfect for tight plumbing situations because it's very compact. The never-lube valves, on the other hand, while being slightly bigger than the space savers, require less maintenance and monitoring down the road. However, both valves are extremely durable and have positive seals and the same number of ports, which can make choosing the right one difficult.
If you know you want a Jandy Pro Series valve but can't decide between the space saver and the never lube, you've come to the right place. This article will take a closer look at each of these pool valves, compare them, and help you choose the right option for your needs. Let's dive in!
What are Jandy Space Saver Valves, and How Do They Work?
Jandy space-saver valves are some of the smallest and most compact valves in the industry. While they're available with the same inlet and outlet sizes as other valves, they feature shortened ports. As such, they're perfect for tight spaces and make for an easy installation when you don't have a lot of wiggle room.
Jandy space savers are made from the toughest CPVC material in the industry. They are designed to withstand harsh chemicals and temperatures, making them perfect for high-use pools and hot tubs. Thanks to their design and material use, these valves are also some of the most durable on the market and are built to last as long as your pool does.
Here's a quick look at some of the specifications of the Jandy space-saver valves.
Valve Type: Diverter
Lubrication Required: Yes
Number of Ports: 2-3
Size: 1 1/2" - 2"
Seal: Positive or Non-Positive
Material: CPVC
Internal Stops: No
What are Regular Never Lube Valves, and How Do They Work?
Jandy's regular never-lube valves are some of the most durable and popular in the industry. Like space-saver valves, they are made of the toughest CPVC material on the market and built to withstand rust, corrosion, and harsh elements. They can also withstand massive fluctuations in both temperatures and chemicals, making them ideal for high-use pools.
While the Jandy space savers prioritize small ports and a compact design, the regular diverter valves prioritize large ports and a robust design. In fact, they are the only valves to feature 2 1/2" x 3" ports and are the largest valves in the industry. As with the space savers, these valves are tough and durable and available with two or three ports.
Here's a quick look at some of the specifications of the regular never-lube diverter valves.
Valve Type: Diverter
Lubrication Required: No
Number of Ports: 2-3
Size: 1 1/2" - 3"
Seal: Positive
Material: CPVC
Internal Stops: No
Jandy Space Saver Vs. the Never Lube Valve: How Do They Compare?
Now that you have a better idea of the design and quality of each of these handy Jandy valves let's compare the two!
Performance
In terms of performance, it's tough to go wrong with either option. Both valves are made of durable CPVC and are built to withstand a wide range of issues, such as harsh chemicals and temperature fluctuations. Additionally, spare parts for both valves are readily available at PVC Fittings Online, should you need to replace something.
Durability
As with performance, there's really no difference between these two valves when it comes to durability. They're made of the same materials and feature the same ball-valve style handle, making them similar in numerous ways. When properly installed, either valve can last for decades or even longer, depending on the conditions and how often you use your pool.
Installation
Installation is where Jandy space saver valves and regular never lube diverter valves differ the most. While you can use the same glue and primer during installation, space saver valves are intended to be installed in tight plumbing situations where space is limited. Regular never lube valves, on the other hand, are larger and have bigger ports than the space savers, which means they're better suited for installations where space isn't a factor.
Compatibility
Once again, there's scarcely a difference between these two valves when it comes to compatibility. The only caveat is that never lube valves are available with larger inlet and outlet ports, which makes them more versatile and compatible with larger pools.
However, both valves have positive seals and diverter-style valves, as well as no internal stops. As such, they're compatible with many of the same systems, with inlet and outlet size being the only differentiating factor.
Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of never lube valves is that they require less ongoing maintenance than the Jandy space saver. As their name implies, never lube valves don't require lubrication, whereas space savers do. However, the space saver does make up for some of the inconvenience of lubrication by allowing the option to lubricate with or without removing the diverter, which can be a time saver.
Overall, though, the never lube valves certainly take the cake in terms of maintenance, as they are completely maintenance free.
Cost
Last, but not least, these valves are similar in terms of cost. Both valves cost anywhere from $50 to $80, on average, depending on the size and style you choose.
Which Pool Valve is Right For Me?
As you can see, there are many similarities between Jandy space saver and regular never lube diverter valves. The main differences between the two are that space savers have smaller ports and are better for tight installations, and never lube valves don't require ongoing maintenance.
Therefore, which valve you choose often comes down to your installation space. If you have enough room for either type of valve, the never-lube valves are the better option because they are maintenance-free, and space savers require regular lubrication. However, if you have limited space, the Jandy space saver is the way to go, thanks to its smaller ports.
Regardless of which Jandy Pro series pool valve you choose, PVC Fittings Online is the place to go!