Using IFCS as return

[Ajax_fuel_linker]

Greetings everyone,

A builder has advised me to use the IFCS as the return; however, family members have advised me against doing so and to have the IFCS plumbed independently on a separate pump so that it can be isolated from the pool operation in the event that something goes wrong. The pool will heat up more quickly with the IFCS, according to the builder. Which approach is a better practice? Is there a design that gives the option to send heated water through an IFCS or a regular return line?

 

[ajw22]

Is there a design that gives the option to send heated water through an IFCS or a regular return line?

There is little difference. BTUs are BTUs and both designs add equal heat into the pool. There may be a bit more even mixing from the IFCS with the hot water entering the pool in more places and heat rising up from the bottom.

There are many other benefits to have a return system as well as an IFCS system. Your family members are correct. Listen to them.

@proavia can expound on this further.

 

[Ajax_fuel_linker]

Thanks!

 

[JoyfulNoise]

I would go one further - ditch the IFCS altogether. They are a relic of pool design and offer very little in the way of “better cleaning” but add a whole lot of complexity, cost, and future maintenance to a pool. It forces PVC plumbing to be buried in the concrete structure of the pool which, according to modern construction standards, is a source of defects and weakness in concrete structures. When an IFCS springs a leak, there is no simple an inexpensive way to fix the plumbing and most recommend simply abandoning the leaking line of that is possible.

Keep your pool design simple and efficient or else it will become a source of frustration for you and future owners of the pool.

 

[Ajax_fuel_linker]

Just realized the builder had me thinking the IFCS would 'rapidly' heat the pool since it was multiple returns, however, that is not the case since there are zones. Only part of the pool would be heated at one time, no different than a regular return.

I require an IFCS as I grew up cleaning a vinyl pool that was under an 80' cherry tree. I have PTSD from cleaning that $*@)$*% thing. Did you know Cherry trees drop leaves all summer and definitely all of them in the fall. Of course, I never cleaned the pool in the winter since it was covered...smh.

 

[ajw22]

What size/shape pool are you building?

Put a few returns placed around opposite the skimmers to give good flow and you will get good heating.

 

[Ajax_fuel_linker]

What size/shape pool are you building?

Put a few returns placed around opposite the skimmers to give good flow and you will get good heating.

Thanks for this insight. I will do this. It's free form, currently 28k gallons.

I never see here, a 2D rendering of pools and the systems overlaid on them. That would be great if there was a way to do this. As it stands now, the builder has something in mind, the buyer has something in mind and neither find out if it's correct until pipes are laid. Buyer usually loses in these situations. So sad.

 

[proavia]

If you are getting an IFCS, also have 2-4 regular returns installed. Plumbing wise, there would need to be a valve installed on the return line to divert water to either the IFCS and/or the added returns. This would afford the option to send water (heated or not) to the floor, the returns or both.

This also provides a means to isolate the IFCS "in case something goes wrong".
Mine is 24 years old. Only repairs were the water valve gearset and popups - both of which were covered under my lifetime warranty on the IFCS.

There is really no reason to have a separate pump for the IFCS. Return water going to the IFCS water valve (which sends water to the different zones) needs to be filtered water. Are you proposing to install a separate filter for the IFCS as well?

If you are getting a heater, be sure to have a properly plumbed heater bypass installed.

Heater Bypass - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[ajw22]

I never see here, a 2D rendering of pools and the systems overlaid on them. That would be great if there was a way to do this. As it stands now, the builder has something in mind, the buyer has something in mind and neither find out if it's correct until pipes are laid. Buyer usually loses in these situations. So sad.

Many build threads include pool plans showing the location of returns, skimmers, lights, and plumbing.

There is no reason not to have a complete set of pool plans before construction begins including plumbing and electrical.

Construction Best Practices - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

Equipment Pad Best Practices - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

How to select pool equipment - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[JoyfulNoise]

There would be no check at all to the builder without me first seeing at the very least a detailed sketch/mock up of the pool overlaid on to the platt map of my property. Before any work starts or permits are pulled, you should have every layout and engineering drawing in your hands to review including a plumbing and electrical map as well as a full equipment list with part numbers. That is a non-negotiable. If the builder balks at providing that level of detail, then move on and find someone else. There’s are many full features 2D/3D design software packages out there specifically for pools and landscaping professionals that can generate all details of drawings. If your builder isn’t familiar with them, then they are subcontracting out the design work. If that’s the case, you need to be in direct contact with the designer.

STAMPED AND SIGNED engineering drawings are an absolute MUST. You should never build anything with the complexity of pool that hasn’t been reviewed and approved by an engineer. Their professional engineering license is your guarantee that the structural designs meet the latest standards and codes.

 

[Ajax_fuel_linker]

There would be no check at all to the builder without me first seeing at the very least a detailed sketch/mock up of the pool overlaid on to the platt map of my property. Before any work starts or permits are pulled, you should have every layout and engineering drawing in your hands to review including a plumbing and electrical map as well as a full equipment list with part numbers. That is a non-negotiable. If the builder balks at providing that level of detail, then move on and find someone else. There’s are many full features 2D/3D design software packages out there specifically for pools and landscaping professionals that can generate all details of drawings. If your builder isn’t familiar with them, then they are subcontracting out the design work. If that’s the case, you need to be in direct contact with the designer.

STAMPED AND SIGNED engineering drawings are an absolute MUST. You should never build anything with the complexity of pool that hasn’t been reviewed and approved by an engineer. Their professional engineering license is your guarantee that the structural designs meet the latest standards and codes.

Thank you very much for this.

 

[proavia]

What IFCS manufacturer is being considered?
Some manufacturers require the builder to submit the pool design to them so that they - the manufacturer - design the location/placement and number of popups.

 

[JoyfulNoise]

I require an IFCS as I grew up cleaning a vinyl pool that was under an 80' cherry tree. I have PTSD from cleaning that $*@)$*% thing. Did you know Cherry trees drop leaves all summer and definitely all of them in the fall. Of course, I never cleaned the pool in the winter since it was covered...smh.

Meh …. What you grew up doing 20/30/40+ years ago isn’t the same as what is available now. And if you have the same kind of leaf drop now … then guess what … the IFCS ain’t gonna make one bit of difference. In fact, you’d probably just clog up the floor drains. The answer to trees around a pool is a simple one - chainsaw. When you build a pool, you keep it as far away from trees as possible.

But, hey, it’s your money and your pool. If you want an IFCS then go for it. I’d save the money and spend it elsewhere but that’s just me. My pool works great with a simple suction side vacuum cleaner.