New Hayward DE filter

[nwardoh]

New pool and went with the Hayward EC50 filter with a power flow pump. Should I do pvc for all the plumbing or the soft hoses? Also, should I use actual DE or something like perlite alternative?

 

[1poolman1]

Try cellulose fiber. If your pool is soft-sided, hoses may be better to relieve strain on the fittings if the wall moves.

 

[nwardoh]

Try cellulose fiber. If your pool is soft-sided, hoses may be better to relieve strain on the fittings if the wall moves.

It’s a steel wall pool

 

[1poolman1]

Rigid PVC is always better than hose, though you may need to use short hoses from the skimmer or return fitting to adapt to pipe.
Water flows easier through pipe. You're going to use the energy to run the pump, might as well get the most flow for the money.