Equipment Pad Best Practices

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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.

Location and Layout

• Consider location carefully. Many Pool Builders will put the equipment where it is convenient for them. Have it put where you will be able to access it easily and quickly if needed
• 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. This will help with repairs in the future.
• All valves & pipes labeled for function and flow direction as well as taking a picture and printing it out in case the labels fail.
• Room to move around- you should be able put your feet between the equipment as well as be 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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