How to Set Up a Pool Pump Filter

Connecting the pool and pool filter is a simple process. In most cases, you can do it yourself as part of the pool setup process. Before you begin the installation, you do need to have a ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, outlet available for the electrical supply. As you work on the installation process, switch the electrical supply off at the breaker box. Turn it back on only when you complete the pool setup.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Pool sand
• Teflon tape
• Wrench
• Hose clamps

Instructions

1. Set the base for the pool pump on a flat surface near the swimming pool outlet valves. The base typically has a rounded side. Place it to your right.

2. Place the pool filter on the left side of the base. Turn it so the outlet faces away from the pool's walls. Use the screws that come with the pool filter to secure the filter to the base.

3. Place the standpipe cover over the top of the standpipe. Fill the filter half full of water. Add pool filter sand to the fill line.

4. Turn the pool pump so the strainer basket is in front and the motor is in the rear as you set it on the right side of the base. Secure the pump to the base with the screws.

5. Use the PVC pipe that comes with the installation kit to connect the top of the pump with the back of the filter. Tighten by hand only.

6. Wrap Teflon tape around the male threads of the air relief valve and the pressure gauge. Insert these devices into the appropriate openings and hand-tighten them.

7. Insert the connector for the return hose cone to the outlet side of the filter. Tighten it by hand.

8. Attach the hose cone to the front of the pump strainer basket and hand-tighten it.

9. Connect the timer to the base with the bolts that came with the assembly package. Plug the cord from the pump into the timer. Plug the timer's plug into the GFCI outlet.

10. Slide hose clamps onto either end of the skimmer's suction hose. Connect the skimmer to the pump strainer basket. Tighten the clamps with a screwdriver. Put clamps on the return hose. Connect it to the pool return and the outlet side of the filter.

11. Turn on the electricity to the pool's circuit. Set the timer for the pool pump and filter system.

12. Prime the pool pump with water according to the manufacturer's directions. Watch for leaks around the connections. Tighten the fittings if necessary.

References

• Spa-World: Pool Setup
• Astral Pool: Millenium Sand Filter System Installation Instructions
• Wet Head Media: How to Hook up an Above Ground Pool Filter System