Which filter and pump to choose for the pool

Operating modes

In the highest quality devices, several modes of operation are presented. The choice of each of them depends on the volume of the pool, the degree of pollution. If the user switches the mode, the power absorption rate of the appliances changes.

Sandy

Since the device includes a six-way valve, there are 6 modes of operation described in the table:

Mode	Description of actions	main function
Filtration	Water flows from top to bottom.Purification is carried out with the help of sand grains.	Water purification, heating
Backwash	Passing in the opposite direction from bottom to top. Contaminated particles are eliminated into the sewer.	Sand cleaning
Seal	The passage of water from the bottom up to compact the sand.	Filtration quality improvement
Emptying	Water passes from the pool to the filter, cleaning does not occur. All content goes down the drain	Removing water from the pool
Circulation	Temperature rise without using a filter element.	Heating
closure	All functions of the machine stop working. The mode is used for a long break. For example, to repair a device.	Disconnecting a device

When switching the mode, the device is completely disconnected from the network. Read more about the operating modes of sand filters in this article.

Cartridge

Cartridge machines are simplified systems. They present the minimum number of modes:

• filtration to purify the contents of the pool;
• emptying for the complete exit of water into the sewer;
• shutdown to stop the functions of the machine.

Since the functionality is small, the devices are used for small containers.

diatoms

There are significantly fewer modes in diatom filters, but this does not reduce their functionality. In high-quality devices, the mode is presented:

• filtering,
• emptying,
• circulation,
• shutdowns.

There is no backwash option as contaminated diatoms must be removed manually.

How to choose the right pool pump

Swimming pool circulation pump

On average, the pump should pump three times the volume of the reservoir per day. The higher the temperature of the water and the intensity of operation of the pool, the more water needs to be “recycled”.Knowing the "cubature" of your pool, it is easy to calculate the approximate power of the pump. The manufacturer always indicates: how many cubic meters per hour this model pumps.

When choosing a pool pump, you should pay attention to its noise characteristics. Too loud running motor will obviously irritate while swimming

This is also an important point.

It is necessary to take into account such technical points as: the place and method of installing the pump, the temperature regime of water and ambient air, the required voltage and the safe connection of the device.

An important role is played by the manufacturer of the goods. There are many well-known manufacturing companies on the market now that maintain excellent quality. Well-established firms will charge some money for their brand name.

But it normal. After all, the pump for the pool is a kind of heart of the reservoir, on which the purity, beauty and, to some extent, the safety of water depend. And this accordingly affects the health and emotional mood of a person.

Quote of Wisdom: Morals deteriorate more easily than they are corrected.

Pool Water Filtration Methods

Constant water circulation and the use of filtering plants are the key to the high-quality functioning of an artificial reservoir. Filtration plants with pumps can operate on two principles: filtration and regeneration. The quality of purification is affected not only by the type of installation, but also by the speed of the filtration process. The high quality of water preparation is ensured at a low purification rate.

In the overflow pool, the water that has poured into a special drain is sent to the tank. And already from the latter goes to the filters. Water after cleaning enters the bowl through the hole that is located at the bottom.

In a skimmer pool, the pump sucks water through a special hole, which is located below the water level. This is where the filtering process takes place.

Service

To replace or wash the sand in the tank, it is necessary to block the access of water to the filter. To do this, use standard plugs from the pool or buy in advance and install plunger valves.

With their help, you can shut off the water, disconnect the hoses without lowering the pool. Sand filters need to be cleaned 3-4 times a season.

Most sand rigs are equipped with a pressure gauge that shows the increase in pressure if the backfill is clogged with mud. Then the system is turned on in the opposite direction, and then the washed sand is compacted. The pump must be connected to the sewer.

The cartridge filter may require cleaning 1-2 times a week, buying a new cartridge will be required after 2-3 months.

Cartridge filters should be used with caution in water with a high iron content. Brown iron-containing water is purified with special chemistry

Before filtering, the precipitated rusty precipitate must be collected with a vacuum cleaner.

Criterias of choice

Be sure to pay attention to the following design features:

1. Frame. By production the reinforced or usual plastic, or fiber glass is used.
2. Valve. Most often, models with a six- or four-way valve with a side or top location are presented.

   The most popular are overhead six position valves.

3. Separator. For a private pool, a more suitable choice would be to purchase a filter with a tubular separator.For owners of public artificial reservoirs, preference should be given to filtering equipment equipped with a cap separator.

Before purchasing, it is imperative to check the presence or absence of a thread on the valve, thanks to which it is possible to connect the hose using adapters. And in no case should you purchase a filter whose valve or top cover is attached with a nut!

By manufacturer

With a large number of manufacturers of sand filtration plants, it is best to pay attention to the two world leaders - Intex Corporation or Bestway. Most stores are dealers of these companies and when buying a filter, sales consultants will give a qualified explanation and issue a warranty card.

Most stores are dealers of these companies and when buying a filter, sales consultants will give a qualified explanation and issue a warranty card.

By filler

When choosing a filter, be sure to find out at the point of sale which filler is used in a particular model.

The service life depends on the composition of the granulate (sand) in the product:

• quartz - 3 years;
• glass - 6 years.

These are not all types of filler in sand filters. There are also multicomponent compositions in which up to 5 layers of different fractions are loaded and a sorbent is used - granular anthracite.

By size, type of bowl

Owners of pools with a volume of more than 15 m3 should definitely opt for filtration equipment using sand.This is due to better and faster purification of water used in an artificial reservoir.

For small inflatable pools, the use of sand cleaning will not be entirely advisable, because the filtration equipment is quite large and it will look at least not very aesthetically pleasing on the site.

By pump flow rate

The choice according to this criterion directly depends on the filtration rate, which varies depending on the purpose and use of the pool.

Filtration speed indicators:

• children's pool - 20 m3/h:
• adult artificial pond - 30 m3 / h.

The filtration rate at private pools is acceptable within the range of 40 - 50 m3 / h.

What is this device, what is it used for?

In the pool, the submersible drainage pump is used to pump out, purify water, as well as ensure its circulation, mix the water layers in the bowl, and prevent stagnation.

Submersible pumps are characterized by low weight, compact size and low cost, combined with optimal power for pool maintenance and ease of use. Dirty water is pumped out with debris particles up to 5 cm in diameter.

Control can be automatic or manual. The submersible pump only works in water, so some models, in order to avoid operation in a “dry” mode, are equipped with a float mechanism that automatically turns off the pump in case of a drop in water level.

What to look for when buying

Here are some important points to consider when buying equipment:

Filter type. When purchasing the device, you have to choose from the three types of pool filters described above.Each of them has both pluses and minuses, and in one case it will be appropriate, but in the other it will not. This must be taken into account.

Electric pump power. The power of the pump of the unit depends on how much liquid it is able to pump per unit of time. Devices with powerful pumps should be bought if you are the owner of a large pool. For compact or collapsible tanks, weak pumps are also suitable. Power directly correlates with the price: the higher it is, the more expensive the device will cost.

Build quality

The main point that you should pay attention to when checking the overall quality of the assembly of the unit is its tightness. The pipes of the place of their connection with the body must be intact, have no gaps, backlashes

Otherwise, they will leak water and your pool filter will be wasted.

Manufacturer. There are both branded units and products of little-known Chinese companies on the market. In general, the quality does not depend on the brand. However, products from well-established manufacturers are usually more reliable in operation and less likely to fail. Therefore, preference should be given to them.

Price. In stores you can find both very expensive and very cheap equipment. The best choice would be the "golden mean" - products of the middle price category. They have quite acceptable quality and reliability, while the price for them is not high.

Before buying, ask the seller to test the device in the store. You don't have to put water on it. It is enough to run the filter empty. This will make sure that the electric pump is working.

TOP 5 models

A good submersible pump is equipped with a wide intake window and a built-in automatic shutdown system in the absence of water.Household models do not pump out water completely, as they are equipped with a float that turns off the device if the water level is 5 cm lower than the height of the unit.

VORTEX DN-1100N

It is a domestic drainage unit (manufactured in China) with a power of 1100 W, which can be operated in dirty water. Captures solid debris up to 3.5 cm in size. Pumps 258 liters of water per minute.

It has a steel body, a float sensor that turns off the device when the water level is insufficient. Provides sufficient pressure and runs quietly. The average cost is 4490 rubles. Read reviews here.

DAB NOVA 300 M-A

Italian pump, produced in Hungary. Power - 350 watts. Durable compared to other models thanks to a durable, sealed housing made of wear-resistant materials and quality parts.

The motor is protected from overheating and can operate at a water level of 8.5 cm. Productivity - 12.9 m3 per hour. Warranty - 24 months, average price - 8500 rubles.

Makita PF1010

The device is from a Japanese manufacturer, manufactured in China. It can be used in the pool, for pumping dirty water - it captures solid particles up to 3.5 cm in size. It features high performance - 240 liters per minute and low noise level, provides excellent pressure.

The pump is equipped with a powerful and at the same time reliable motor. The float mechanism automatically turns off the device when the water level drops to a critical level. The case is made of high-strength plastic, for convenience of operation and transfer there is a handle. The average cost is 6200 rubles. Read reviews here.

Karcher SP 1 Dirt

It is a universal drainage pump with a capacity of 250 W of German production, manufactured in China.It works quietly, pumps 5.5 thousand liters of water per hour, automatically turns off when its level drops critically. The average price is 3400 rubles. Read reviews here.

Grundfos Unilift KP 150-A1

Produced in Denmark, it is distinguished by a durable stainless steel body, a capacity of 9 m3 per hour, small dimensions (the pump can be placed anywhere), and a powerful electric motor.

Does not have a check valve. Solid particles up to 1 cm in size can pass through the device. On average, it costs 17,000 rubles. Read reviews here.

Backflow pumps

With a special backflow pump, you can also swim in a small, domestic pool. There are two types of counterflow pumps:

• Mounted. Suitable for small seasonal pools. These are units that have everything in one: a pump, nozzles, lighting, handrails, automation and control. The advantage of this design is the ease of installation.
• Embedded. Equipped with a suction mechanism capable of extracting water from above and below its level. They are more expensive and complex in design. They are mainly used in the arrangement of stationary pools.

When installing counterflows, you should pay attention to the water level: the level of the counterflow platform should be 120-140 mm higher than the water level

Counterflow #1 - Speck

The Speck company was founded in 1909 in Germany and specializes in the production of pumping equipment for liquid and gaseous media.

Countercurrent is a swimmer's treadmill that turns a small pool into an endless one.

The model has excellent characteristics and nice design.

Main characteristics:

• power consumption - 2.9 kW;
• productivity - 53 m3.

It is possible to connect special nozzles for hydromassage to the device. Easy to install without damaging the walls of the pool. There is an adjustment of the amount of mixed air.

The built-in counterflow pump is mounted below the water level. Professional model for continuous work

Main characteristics:

• power consumption: 3.3 kW;
• productivity: 58 m3.

Mounted countercurrent have increased power, are connected to a three-phase power supply. It is calculated on the maximum loadings for athletes. It has a built-in LED spotlight.

Counterflow #2 - Glong Electric

Glong Electric is a Chinese manufacturer of electric motors and water pumps. The company produces an extensive line of pumps: from cheap plastic to expensive with a bronze body and high performance. The company was founded in the mid 90s.

The counterflow in winter must be removed and stored in a dry, heated room.

The model is easy to install and carry.

Main characteristics:

• power consumption: 2.9 kW;
• productivity: 54 m3.

A single-jet countercurrent can serve as a hydromassage. To turn the device on and off, it is not necessary to leave the pool, there is a special pneumatic button.

Countercurrent #3 - Pahlen

The Swedish company Pahlen was registered over 40 years ago. Specializes in the production of equipment for swimming pools. Carries out deliveries to more than 70 countries of the world.

The minimum size of the pit for built-in counterflow LxWxD 1x0.6x0.6 m

It can be completed with an embedded part in the form of a handrail.

Main characteristics:

• power consumption - 2.2 kW;
• productivity - 54 m3.

Requires connection to a three-phase power supply.Made from bronze and stainless steel.

The delivery set includes a pneumatic start-up unit.

You may also be interested in how to properly organize the ventilation of the pool.

Types of pumps

Solving the problem of water circulation during its filtration, manufacturers have created several types of pumping equipment:

1. Self-priming pump. The rotating rotor with blades creates a pressure drop due to which water is sucked in.
2. Centrifugal or vane pump. The main driving element, like a self-priming pump, is a rotor with blades. Its rotation creates an inertial centrifugal force that directs the flow of water.
3. Pump with built-in filter element. A feature of the device is a constructive association with a filter. The equipment solves two problems: pumping and water purification.
4. Heat pump. During operation of this device, the pumped water passes through the heat exchanger. In it, the heated refrigerant (freon) gives off its heat to the water. The heated water returns to the pool.

How to choose?

When choosing a specific model of the filter pump, pay attention to several parameters

Equipment performance

Sellers in the main characteristics provide data on the volume of the pool that the equipment can serve.

Therefore, it is enough to look at this characteristic to understand to what extent the filter pump is suitable for this pool.

For some models, only the filter performance is indicated. That is, the number of cube. m of water, which is able to process the device within 1 hour. In this case, you have to do a little calculation.

SanPiN 2.1.2.1188-03 of 2003 establishes that in small pools (up to 100 sq. M) the renewal time of all water should not exceed 8 hours.Given this figure, knowing the volume of the pool, it is easy to determine the minimum allowable performance of the equipment.

Example: for a pool with a bowl volume of 20,000 liters (20 cubic meters), at least 20,000/8=2,500 liters must be cleaned in 1 hour. Those. when choosing a filter, you have to focus on devices that pump at least 2,500 liters or 2.5 cubic meters. m for 1 hour.

Dimensions

Some devices, such as sand type, are equipped with an impressive tank. The filter element - sand - is poured into it.

The equipment should be located in close proximity to the pool, so when choosing a filtering system, it is worth considering its dimensions and design features, whether there is enough space for it on the site.

Mounting dimensions

The connecting dimensions of the filter system hoses must match the dimensions of the inlet/outlet pipes of the pump and the pool. Otherwise, you will have to purchase adapters.

Possibility of chemical cleaning

Usually, mechanical cleaning of impurities is assigned to the filter system. To combat biological pollution, air conditioners are used, which are added to the pool water.

Filters are produced, combined not only with a pump, but also with a chlorine generator. Such a filtering system performs mechanical cleaning and complete disinfection of the pumped water flow.

When independently connecting the chlorine generator to the cleaning circuit, pay attention to its performance. The technical data for the product indicates the performance of the filter pump that the chlorine generator can work with.

How to make the right choice?

When choosing cleaning equipment, consider the size of the bowl, filter power and specifications device:

1. For large pools, a high power pump is preferable.

   If it is used intensively enough, then the power of the equipment should be appropriate.

2. Low-power equipment can be used for a small bowl or in a pool that is rarely used.
3. It is advisable to choose a pump with an energy-saving mode. They are characterized by high performance and more economical operation.

Given these criteria, you can choose the best option for your pool.

TOP-3 popular models

Consider the 3 most popular models of cartridge filters.

Flowclear 58221

Cartridge filter pump Bestway Flowclear 58221 will help to secure the pool water by cleaning it from numerous microorganisms, metal particles and dirt.

Specifications:

• country of production: China;
• case material: plastic;
• maximum operating voltage: 220 W;
• productivity: 9.463 cubic meters / h;
• weight: 11.4 kg;
• price: from 5500 to 9000 rubles.

58383

The filter unit Bestway 58383 is suitable for small pools with a diameter of 240 to 366 cm.

Specifications:

• production: Katai;
• case material: plastic;
• maximum operating voltage: 220 W;
• productivity: 2.006 cubic meters / h;
• weight: 2.7 kg;
• price: from 2500 to 5500 rubles.

58462

For frame and inflatable pools of small volume, a hanging filter with a Bestway 58462 paper cartridge is suitable. This device is equipped with a special garbage trap.

Thanks to him, large debris, particles of rust and foliage will not get into the water. It also contains a bactericidal purifier to purify water from pathogens.

Specifications:

• country of manufacture: China;
• case material: plastic;
• maximum power: 75 watts;
• water circulation volume: 3.974 m3/h;
• for which pools it is suitable: from 1100 to 10000 l;
• installation type: self-priming;
• dimensions: 465/470/315 cm;
• weight: 5 kg;
• price: from 5500 to 7500 rubles.

Pros and cons of a homemade device

Its advantages are:

• no need for frequent water changes;
• gentle cleaning without the risk of damage to the pool bowl;
• high-quality processing of steps, walls and bottom;
• a simple self-cleaning process, without the involvement of specialists;
• water filtration, which improves the overall appearance of an artificial reservoir;
• reducing the load on the pool filters;
• reducing the consumption of cleaning chemicals;
• saving money and time.

Among the shortcomings of the device should be highlighted:

• inability to switch power;
• inability to work in automatic mode;
• the need for constant human involvement.

diatom

These are filters of the latest generation, in the installation of which special cartridges are attached, filled with a special powder from fossil plankton. The particles of the filter material are very small, therefore they purify water from impurities, from 3-5 microns. Diatom powder is much more productive than sand, because of this, the water when passing through the diatom filter cartridges becomes perfectly clean. To clean such a filter at the first pores, among other things, a return cleaning with clean water is carried out. Meanwhile, after a certain time, such a concept already ceases to function and a complete replacement of the diatom mixture will be required.

Advantages and disadvantages

Many people choose a sand system for water purification due to the following advantages:

• large volume of water transmission;
• the device can be made independently;
• good cleaning ability;
• high speed of work;
• long service life, 3-6 years;
• low cost of the device and consumables;
• low price of the main material - quartz sand;
• selection of different types of sand.

The device has disadvantages:

• the user may not always remember that the cartridge needs to be replaced or the internal contents cleaned, which leads to severe contamination;
• frequent regeneration, leading to an increase in water consumption and time required for cleaning.

The last disadvantage is reduced or eliminated. This is done through the use of different fractions of sand. It has a different grain size, so the water is cleared faster.

How to connect correctly?

The pump provides pumping water through the filter, so the first step is to check the readiness of the filter (presence of a cartridge, backfill filter material).

Further instructions on how to install the pump:

1. Installation next to the pool (for ground pumps).
2. Mounting on a bracket on the inner wall of the pool (for mounted and submersible filter pumps).
3. Connecting the filter to the pump using hoses (in filter-pump systems, this is not necessary, the filter and pump are structurally combined).
4. Inclusion of the filtering system in the electrical network.

Depending on the type of filter, it can be connected before the pump or after. The connection order is indicated in the technical description of the product.

Preparing to connect

Preparation instructions:

1. Place the pump on a horizontal, level surface. For this, a pedestal is mounted or a stand is equipped.The dimensions of the substrate are slightly larger than the dimensions of the pump.
2. To dampen vibration and noise, you need to put a rubber gasket or supports under the base of the unit.
3. Secure the pump with fasteners.
4. Equip the site with a drain or drainage.
5. The pump must be installed at a height below 3 m from the water level. This method eliminates the need to use a non-return valve on the suction pipe.
6. If there is a large difference in height, install a non-return valve. But such an installation scheme is inconvenient, since there is a risk of valve clogging.
7. Suction pipes should be as short as possible, straight - without unnecessary turns and slopes.
8. Install shut-off valves at the outlet and inlet.
9. Provide normal access, sufficient space and lighting for further maintenance of the system.

How to calculate the required pump performance?

We turned to a specialist, he advised us, and this is what we learned. We need a self-priming pump for our pool filtration system. But, here is a fact: for pools of different volumes of water, pumps of different performance will be needed. In this case, how is the calculation done? According to sanitary standards, the time of complete water exchange is well established pool water purification is 6 hours. During this billing period, the pump is required to pump the entire volume of water in the pool.

Therefore, the performance (capacity) of the pump is equal to the volume of water (cubic meters) in the pool / 6 hours. Let's say for a pool with a volume (size) of 30 cubic meters, you need a pump with a load of 5 cubic meters. in hour. Then we will make a reservation that we have obtained the smallest (calculated) value of the pump output.To ensure accurate operation of the filtration system, it is necessary to take into account the potential loss of pump output, therefore we add a little to the calculated value. For our sample (pool 30 cubic meters), a pump with a capacity of 7 - 8 cubic meters is perfect. m per hour.