PSI eval/issue?

[DIYPoolcustoms]

Hey all,

Looking for some expert advise on a pool install. Below are the specifications on the setup and last the big questions. See attached pictures for reference if needed.

15'x48" round above ground pool (5,600 Gal.)
Intex SF60110-2 3000GPH sand filter
glass sand media
1" 1/2" pvc plumbing
(3) suction inlets & (1) return outlet:
(1) closed off w/ ball joints - about 3ft or 4ft long from pump
(1) closed off w/ ball joint - about 8ft long from pump
(1) skimmer open full w/ ball joint - about 5ft long to pump
(1) return outlet open full w/ ball joint about 12ft from pump

After a good cleaning (backwash, rinse cycle) my PSI sits around 10PSI. when connecting the vacuum to a suction inlet, opening the ball joint, and closing the ball join on the skimmer, PSI sits at 10 psi.

Question 1: is 10 PSI too low for normal use, with no vacuum?

Question 2: Shouldnt the PSI differe when connecting the vacuum? (manual brush with telescopic pole, or extreme power suction vacuum connected to an open suction inlet)

Question 3: Is there something wrong or does this all sound about right?

Not sure if the pump is struggling or going out or what needs to be done in order to increase psi if needed - runs 12hrs/day. pool sees regular use by myself, and occasionally (rare) rest of fmaily.

 

[ajw22]

10 PSI sounds fine.

Higher PSI indicates a restrictive inefficient filter and plumbing.

Why are you concerned?

 

[DIYPoolcustoms]

Initially concerned because I was under the impression vaccum psi should sit between 8-12, where when not vacuuming it should read an increased psi however, theres no difference in psi when vacuuming or not.

when i open all 3 inlet valves theres maybe a total of 1/2 psi increase but overall suction of course is reduced at the skimmer.

If i wanted to add an accessory like SWG, solar heat or a waterfall i feel like the PSI would just tank and not be efficient at all

 

[kellyfair]

Not sure why you need 3 inlets (including skimmer) but your pressure looks perfectly normal.

 

[DIYPoolcustoms]

I'd prefer just 2 total, 1 for the skimmer, and one for the return, however this pool came with 4 premade holes. I suppose I could transition 1 of them into a pool return and have 2 returns, and 2 intake outlets. Essentially I keep the 2 "extra inlets" closed off with ball joints, and threaded caps easily removable just in case.

If I added another accessory for example, solar tubing - would that lower the PSI to an un-usable level? what would be considered too low of PSI?

 

[kellyfair]

I don’t worry about the actual PSI number - just the change from norm that tells me it is time to backwash. And I am not familiar with the glass media you use, so cannot comment about that.

I think you are focusing too much on the number, when you should focus more on function. Your pump is 1.5 hp, I think. I ran my smaller one (either .5 or 1.0, I forget) on my 16’ x 48” Intex and on the current pool for a long time (18’ by 52”) and it skimmed well and circulation was excellent. If it is doing what you need, don’t sweat the PSI number.

 

[DIYPoolcustoms]

ok sounds good. The sand filter/pump does turn the water in the pool - you can see the current circulating.
The type of glass media I'm using is this stuff: Amazon link: Harsco Metals & Minerals Filter Glass

 

[kellyfair]

ok sounds good. The sand filter/pump does turn the water in the pool - you can see the current circulating.
The type of glass media I'm using is this stuff: Amazon link: Harsco Metals & Minerals Filter Glass

Excellent!