4
Piping:
Use at least 2" IPS PVC (51mm) pipe. Increase size if a
long run is needed.
To avoid strains on the pump, support both suction and
discharge pipes independently. Place these supports
near the pump.
To avoid a strain left by a gap at the last connection,
start all piping at the pump and run pipe away from the
pump.
Never use a suction pipe smaller than pump suction
connection.
To avoid airlocking, slope suction pipe slightly upward
toward the pump.
NOTICE: To prevent flooding when removing pump for
service, all flooded suction systems must have gate
valves in suction and discharge pipes.
Fittings:
Fittings restrict flow; for best efficiency use fewest
possible fittings.
Avoid fittings which could cause an air trap.
Pool fittings must conform to International Association
of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
standards.
Use only non-entrapping suction fitting or double suction.
POOL PUMP SUCTION
REQUIREMENTS
Pump suction is hazardous and can trap
and drown or disembowel bathers. Do not use or
operate swimming pools, spas, or hot tubs if a suction
outlet cover is missing, broken, or loose. Follow the
guidelines below for a pump installation which minimizes
risk to users of pools, spas, and hot tubs.
Entrapment Protection
The pump suction system must provide protection
against the hazard of suction entrapment or hair
entrapment/entanglement.
Suction Outlet Covers
All suction outlet covers must be maintained. They must
be replaced if cracked, broken, or missing.
See below for outlet cover certification requirements.
All suction outlets must have correctly installed, screw-
fastened covers in place.
Testing and Certification
Suction outlet covers must have been tested by a
nationally recognized testing laboratory and found to
comply with the lastest ASME/ANSI Specification for
Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot
Tubs, and Whirlpool Bathtub Applications.
At Least
3 Feet
Suction Outlet
(Main Drain)
Suction Outlet
(Main Drain)
IAPMO Certified
Anti-entrapment
Cover or Suction Fitting,
screw-fastened to
Main Drain Sump
IAPMO Certified
Anti-entrapment
Cover or Suction Fitting,
screw-fastened to
Main Drain Sump
Pump
Valves OK between
pump and Tee
No valves between
Tee and Main Drains
2762 0197
Figure 2 – Recommended pump suction layout.
For most installations Pentair recommends installing a
valve on both the pump suction and return lines so that
the pump can be isolated during routine maintenance.
However, we also recommend a valve, elbow or tee
installed in the suction line should be no closer to the
front of the pump than five (5) times the suction line
diameter.
Example:
A 2 inch pipe requires a 10 inch (25.4 cm)
straight run in front of the suction inlet of the pump.
