Balanced suction between a pool’s skimmer and main drain is critical for safe, consistent circulation. When that balance is disrupted, water flow can reverse or become unstable, leading to poor skimming performance, air intrusion, or unsafe suction conditions. The Pentair Equalizer Flap (08650-0048) is a small but essential component designed to regulate water flow at the main drain equalizer port, helping maintain proper hydraulic balance in pool circulation systems.

This flap installs inside compatible Pentair equalizer or main drain assemblies and acts as a one-way flow control device. It opens and closes in response to suction demand, allowing water to enter when needed while preventing reverse flow. When the flap is worn, missing, or damaged, the system can experience erratic suction behavior that affects overall circulation and safety.

This is a purpose-built Pentair hydraulic control component—not a generic rubber insert or makeshift substitute.

Why the Equalizer Flap Matters in Pool Circulation

Equalizer systems are designed to prevent excessive suction at the skimmer when water levels drop or flow conditions change. The equalizer flap plays a key role in this system by ensuring water is drawn from the correct source at the correct time.

If the flap becomes stiff, warped, or breaks apart, the equalizer can no longer respond properly. This may result in reduced skimmer effectiveness, fluctuating suction, or unwanted backflow. Replacing the flap restores predictable flow behavior and helps the circulation system operate as designed.

Designed for Pentair Equalizer and Main Drain Systems

The Pentair 08650-0048 equalizer flap is manufactured to match original Pentair specifications for size, flexibility, and sealing performance. Proper fit is critical, as even small deviations can prevent the flap from sealing or moving correctly.

Using the correct OEM flap ensures smooth operation within the equalizer assembly and prevents premature wear on surrounding components.

Built for Continuous Submerged Operation

This equalizer flap is designed for constant underwater use in chlorinated environments. The material remains flexible while resisting chemical degradation, allowing it to open and close reliably over time.

Because it operates automatically with system suction changes, no adjustment or calibration is required once installed.

When to Use the Pentair Equalizer Flap

This equalizer flap should be replaced when:

• The existing flap is missing, cracked, or stiff

• Skimmer suction becomes inconsistent or weak

• Backflow is suspected at the equalizer port

• Servicing or rebuilding a Pentair equalizer assembly

• Restoring proper suction balance between skimmer and main drain

Replacing a worn flap is a simple fix that can resolve circulation issues without major plumbing changes.

Practical Replacement for Pool Owners and Service Professionals

For pool owners, replacing the equalizer flap helps restore normal skimming performance and stable circulation. For service professionals, it is a common wear item replacement that can quickly correct suction imbalance complaints.

Though small, this component plays an important role in maintaining safe and efficient pool operation.

Specifications

Buy with Confidence from Benchmark Pool Supply

When you purchase the Pentair Equalizer Flap (08650-0048) from Benchmark Pool Supply, you’re buying an OEM circulation control component from a retailer that understands real pool hydraulics.

You can expect genuine Pentair parts, fast fulfillment from knowledgeable staff, and support from a team that works with pool circulation systems every day. This is the same type of replacement part trusted by pool professionals to keep systems operating safely and efficiently.