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We have an above ground swimming pool with a filter system that flows 45 gpm through 1-1/2" PVC utilizing a 1-1/2 HP pump. Lately we have been having a problem with leaves plugging off the skimmer basket which leads to complete destruction of the basket due to the pump trying to pull water through the layer of leaves. We clean the basket several times a day but would like to find some way to "bypass" the skimmer when it becomes blocked with leaves when we aren't around. One idea is to install a line with a pressure relief valve between the line taking filtered water back to the pool and the suction line between the skimmer and the pump. The idea being that when the basket becomes blocked the suction of the pump will open the relief valve and draw water from the return line back to the pool. Water would simply circulate in a loop until the basket can be cleaned. I don't have a lot of experience with the flow of fluids in pipes, relief valves, etc. and it has been many years since my last fluids class in college.

My question is, is this feasible?

All advice and suggestions are greatly appreciated.