8
Check the Selected Location for Grade or Elevation of the Pool
as the pool walls must rest on
undisturbed soil. Keep the top surface of the pool (pool deck) at least three to four inches
above the highest ground elevation in the area. This will avoid any surface drainage back into
the pool.
The Equipment Location
should be included in your considerations:
•
You’ll want to place your filter on a concrete slab.
Be sure to make the slab large
enough for all equipment, usually 3' X 4'or 3' X 7' with a heater. Also, consider at this
time whether an enclosure will be built over the equipment in order to plan the slab size
accordingly.
•
Keep the filter within 20' of the pool to maintain optimum pump performance.
•
Never locate the filter and pump more than six inches above or six inches below pool
grade. Otherwise, pump priming or overflow problems are likely to occur.
•
Never locate the filter and pump in a basement as it is possible that a malfunction in
plumbing could cause flooding.
•
Consider where the backwash water will drain. Is there adequate drainage? Check for
local codes requiring special methods to dispose backwash water.
•
The filter location is also important from an aesthetic point of view. When making the
rough layout of the pool, visualize placement of the filter and plan for future
landscaping or enclosures. Out of sight of the immediate pool area is usually preferred.
EXCAVATION CONTRACTOR
One of the most important phases that makes for a smooth installation is the excavation. If the
excavation is incorrect, each subsequent step becomes costlier as well as more difficult. For
instance, if the bottom grade of the pool is too shallow and rough, you will have to resort to
hours or even days of hand trimming. A skilled excavation contractor should be chosen for this
critical part of the installation process. Search for a local “excavating contractor" in your area or
online at www.realpages.com.
TIP
Other terms used to describe the top of the pool coping are pool grade, final elevation or
"top surface."
