How to install a pool pump?

A good installation of your pool pump will result in many years of trouble free operation.

When installing a pool pump, careful attention must be paid to the following:

1. Piping: The suction and discharge pipes must not be smaller in diameter than the pump connection i.e. Suction pipe diameter 50mm, outlet pipe diameter 50mm minimum. On 1.1 kW & 1.5kW a suction pipe of 63mm should be used. Suitable unions should be placed in the lines adjacent to the pump connections in case the pump body needs to be removed, where pump unions do not already perform this function.

Do not support the pipework on the pump or vice versa. Make sure all pipe connections are completely water/air tight by using a suitable pipe jointing compound. Keep suction pipe as short as possible and only use pipes that are sufficiently rated to work at a minimum of 4 bar pressure. The suction line should enter the pump straight and horizontally for a length of at least 4 x the diameter of the pipe.

2. Pump Positioning: (Important for motor cooling): We recommend that the pump be positioned at a level of no more than ± 300mm above your pool water level. Again, we stress the fact to keep the suction line as short as possible. A minimum clearance of 150mm must be allowed behind the motor fan cowling to the nearest obstruction to ensure proper air ventilation and easy access for servicing. The pump house/box must also have provision for adequate drainage facilities.

3. Ventilation: As the electric motor is fan cooled, sufficient ventilation must be allowed at all times during operation. Failure to do this will cause overheating resulting in premature bearing failure and/or motor burnout. If your pump house/box does not have ventilation holes the lid or door should be left open during operation of the pump.

4. Drainage: Flooding of the electric motor is the most common cause of motor failure. It is essential that adequate drainage be provided in the pump house/box. If the motor fails as a result of flooding then there is no
warranty whatsoever irrespective of how the water penetrated the motor. The pump must be protected from rain and flooding.

5. Electric Connections: These must be carried out by suitably qualified people only. Do not change the motor position as it is provided with a drain hole at the bottom to drain off any water which may leak past the mechanical shaft seal. A cable gland must be fitted to the terminal box. If a 3 phase pumps has been installed, it requires an appropriately rated overload protection device. NOTE: The length of cable supplied with the pump is for testing only and should be replaced with suitably rated cable. Minimum specification 60245IEC66 (HO7RN-F).

6. Rotation: Before checking the rotation, drain the pump leaf trap of water. The correct rotation is clockwise when viewed from the motor end. Pumps with 220 volt single phase motors are wired at our factory for the
correct rotation. 3 phase pumps require the rotation to be checked before operating to prevent a damage to the impeller.