Filter & Pool Pump Upgrade: Beyond a Routine Sand Replacement
At My Pool Shop Melbourne, many equipment issues begin as routine maintenance requests but sometimes underlying problems can rise to the surface causing a change of plans. An example of this is a recent media change which turned into a media filter and pool pump upgrade after Zeke encountered some challenges on-site.
The Situation
The job initially came through as a request for a filter media change with the expectation that the existing sand would be replaced with glass media and the filter would continue operating reliably for years to come.
We were aware that access could be a challenging factor as the filter was installed beneath the clients decking. However based on the clients photos, Zeke wasn’t concerned as he had the option to remove decking boards for access if necessary.
Understanding the Challenge
Once on site, the condition and positioning of the equipment made things a little more complex than expected. The filter was an older Davey model which was sitting on a noticeable lean as it has moved over the years due to the sloping ground beneath it. The setup raised concerns about long term stress on both the equipment and pipework.
After removing the multiport valve to begin the media change, Zeke noticed the internals were broken. This is rare but the fault meant the filter would not perform effectively. Zeke communicated this to the customer and suggested he would need a new multiport valve.
However, it transpired that replacement parts for this model were obsolete which meant the only viable option was to replace the filter.
Our Approach
The next step was to determine the most suitable replacement. On the surface, replacing the filter with a similar size unit seemed straightforward, but this is where experience and system understanding become critical. The existing pool pump was significantly oversized for a media filter of this size.
The customers original filter suited the pool volume and the nearest Astral model to match is an Astral ECA550. The problem was the customers existing pool pump was a 2HP model that had a flow rate of 465 litres per minute which exceeded both the original filter capacity (180 LPM) and that of a replacement. Installing a new filter without replacing the pool pump would have created excessive flow and pressure which would have voided the new filter warranty and lead to issues such as poor filtration and damage to filter components.
The customer was advised that in order to ensure the filter and pool pump would be compatible with one another, he would need either a larger filter or to replace the pool pump as well with one that suited the smaller filter.
A larger filter would not have fit into the space due to the low clearance under the deck so the customer decided to replace both the pool pump and filter, opting for the ECA550 media filter and an Astral E-series (E170) pool pump. This setup was a better match for his pool volume and the location and should provide the best filtration going forward. Installing a smaller pump also meant less power would be consumed by the pool pump therefore saving the client on his power bills.
Installation and Setup
The existing setup and site needed changes to support the new system properly.
Because the original filter was on a sloping site, Zeke dug out a flat surface and added crushed rock and a paver so that the new media filter and pool pump had a level foundation to avoid stress on connections.
He also needed to move the new equipment so that it would clear a gate. Access under the deck required temporary removal of a decking board to allow safe and proper installation of the filter which was then replaced following the install.
The new equipment layout also required adjustments to the existing plumbing. Pipework was reconfigured to suit the updated inlet and outlet positions and the backwash line was replumbed to ensure correct operation and ease of servicing moving forward.
The Outcome
The final result was a properly balanced and fully functional filtration system. By matching the pool pump and filter correctly, the system now operates within its intended limits, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of future issues. Levelling the equipment and correcting the plumbing layout also addressed underlying problems that could have caused leaks due to stress on the joints.
Final Thoughts
If your pool equipment is starting to lean or you are noticing pressure issues with your filter, it is important not to ignore these early warning signs. Regular media changes are required typically every five to seven years and they are a valuable opportunity to assess the overall condition of your system, including checking pipework and internal seals or o-rings and correcting any underlying issues before they develop further.
If you are unsure whether your system is due for attention or if your equipment is working as it should, our team can help guide you in the right direction ‘because everybody deserves a safe and healthy pool’.
