What are the Best Practices for a Pool Equipment Pad?
If you are building your pool here are things to discuss with your builder and contractor.[1]
Location and Layout
- Consider location carefully. Many Pool Builders will put the equipment where it is convenient for them
- Size - 5’ x 10-12’+
- Pumps on one side, filter in the middle and heater on the other side.
- No pipes coming up through concrete, bring them up through crushed stone.
- All valves & pipes labeled for function and flow direction
- Room to move around, put your feet between equipment, and get behind all equipment
- Control panels on something solid like a structure wall or a wall created by posts and 2 x 10’s.
Ventilation and Sun Protection
- Good airflow
- Consider where heater exhaust will blow to
- Protection from sun or at least spray paint pipes
Electrical
- Light overhead for night work
- 120V GFCI receptacle
Water
- Water spigot
- Drain area or to sewer for waste
Plumbing
- Valves-make sure they are the rebuildable ones-Jandy and Pentair make some good ones. Do NOT allow "ball valves" from the big box stores.
- Unions-make sure they use these on all of the equipment so you can service it without having to cut the pipe
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