Understanding In-Floor Pool Cleaning Systems: Ball Valves, Flap Valves, and Modules

If you own a pool with an in-floor cleaning system, you’ve probably noticed the little “pop-up” heads that rise up and push dirt toward your drain. What most pool owners don’t see are the gear assemblies and valve systems that make the whole thing work. This summer, I’ve repaired more than half a dozen of these gear assemblies, and I want to explain the three main types: ball valves, flap valves, and modules.

Ball Valves (Older Technology)

How they work:

• Used in earlier in-floor cleaning systems.

• A series of plastic balls inside a housing rotate and open/close water paths, directing pressure to different zones of the pool heads.

• Think of it like marbles rolling into place to block or allow water flow.

Repairs & lifespan:

• These wear down over time, especially in hard-water areas. Balls get rough, seats wear out, and they may stick or stop rotating.

• Repair usually means a full rebuild kit (new balls and O-rings), but often homeowners end up replacing the whole unit.

Cost:

• Repair kits: $50–$100.

• Replacement housings: $200–$300.

Flap Valves (Mid-Generation)

How they work:

• Instead of balls, these use spring-loaded “flaps” that open and close in sequence, redirecting water flow.

• A gear system times the flaps so water is pushed to different zones.

• More reliable than ball valves, fewer moving parts to jam.

Repairs & lifespan:

• Common issues are broken springs, worn flaps, or stripped gears.

• Easier to repair than ball valves — often just a flap or spring swap.

Cost:

• Small parts: $30–$80.

• Full module replacement: $200–$300.

Modules (Modern Systems – Paramount, A&A, etc.)

How they work:

• The most current design, used by Paramount, A&A Manufacturing, Caretaker, and other brands.

• A module is a cartridge-like gear assembly that sits inside the water valve housing. It rotates under water pressure, redirecting water to zones of in-floor heads.

• Much more efficient and easier to service — you can pull the module out and swap it without replacing the whole housing.

Repairs & lifespan:

• Modules can last 5–7 years depending on water chemistry.

• Repairs usually involve replacing worn gears or O-rings, but most pool pros (including me) swap the module for a new one because it’s faster and reliable.

• A new module instantly brings a sluggish system back to life.

Cost:

• Aftermarket modules: $50–$80 (but not always long-lasting).

• OEM modules (Paramount, A&A, Caretaker): $250–$300 wholesale.

Which Is Best?

• Ball valves: Outdated, high maintenance, not cost-effective long-term.

• Flap valves: A step up, still decent but require more service over time.

• Modules: Today’s standard. Reliable, easy to swap, and most brands have replacement parts readily available.

Why This Matters for Pool Owners

Understanding your in-floor system helps you:

• Budget for repairs – modules cost more upfront but last longer.

• Avoid downtime – if your in-floor isn’t working, debris piles up fast.

• Decide between OEM and aftermarket – aftermarket can save money short term, but OEM is more durable.

At Kleanwise Pool Care, we’ve seen firsthand how a quick module replacement can bring a pool back from barely circulating to sparkling clean. If your in-floor cleaning heads aren’t popping up or your water valve sounds noisy, it’s time for service.