7
PLUMBING THE SKIMMER
(MODELS: PS4000, 4500)
Waterscapes PS4000 and PS4500 Skimmers are packaged with pump outlets predrilled
in either side of the enclosures. The holes are sized to accept up to a 2” flexible PVC pipe.
Insert the pipe into the hole on whichever side of the Skimmer is most compatible with your
application. The pump outlets are drilled above water level, so there is no need for this to be
a water tight connection. The pre-drilled hole that is not being utilized can simply be blocked
off with a flat stone on the outside of the enclosure.
It is recommended that you install a check valve between the pump and the supply line.
This valve will prevent the FilterFalls from draining when the pump is off, which keeps the
beneficial bacteria alive and any debris that the FilterFalls has collected from back flowing into
your pond.
A drill point is provided on both sides of your Skimmer to show the proper location for
the installation of an Auto Fill valve (not included). There is a drill-point provided on the
back of the Skimmer to show the proper location and elevation for the installation of an
overflow (not included).
SETTING THE FILTERFALLS
It is always recommended that the FilterFalls be placed on undisturbed soil if possible. If the
installation calls for the FilterFalls to be elevated above existing grade, it is critical to compact
the area thoroughly. This will ensure that the FilterFalls will not settle out-of-level over time.
The use of cinder blocks or bricks under the falls to raise it up will help reduce the chance
of settling.
The FilterFalls can be placed adjacent to the pond edge to create a single waterfall, or pulled
away from the pond to create a streambed effect. Refer to the surface area recommendations
on page 3 to ensure that the streambed is properly sized.
Once you have placed the unit, make sure it is level from side to side and check the level
from front to back. FilterFalls should always be installed tilted slightly forward about ¼”. This
will ensure that water never leaks out over the back of the enclosure. When you are finished
positioning the unit, weigh it down with a few rocks to keep it in place while you backfill and
make your liner and plumbing connections. Apply silicone on the threads of the Male Thread
Adaptor (MTA). Screw the MTA into the bulkhead until tight. Use PVC Glue (not included)
to glue the PVC flex hose into the MTA.
Do not completely backfill the FilterFalls until all of your plumbing connections are
made and the liner has been attached.
WATERSC APES FILTERFALLS INSTALLATION
BULKHEAD INSTALLATION
(MODELS: BF1000, BF1250, BF1500)
It is a good idea to install the bulkhead fitting and proper hose adaptor (not included)
before setting the FilterFalls. A 1½” bulkhead has been provided in the installation kit for the
models listed above. Remove the retaining nut, friction washer and one rubber gasket,
leaving one rubber gasket on the body of the bulkhead fitting. From the inside of the FilterFalls,
insert the threaded end of the bulkhead into the hole on the side of the enclosure. This will
sandwich the rubber gasket between the flange of the bulkhead and the inside wall of the
enclosure. Slip first the rubber gasket and then the friction washer over the threaded end of
the bulkhead on the outside of the enclosure. Next, tighten the retaining nut by hand and
then finish off with a ½ turn from a wrench.
