💧 Certikin FDB600 Deep Bed Sand Filter with Multiport Valve – 600mm Diameter, 15m³/h Flow Rate

Advanced deep bed filtration technology for sparkling pool water with minimal maintenance

🌊 Product Overview

The Certikin FDB600 Deep Bed Sand Filter is the mid-range powerhouse in Certikin’s acclaimed deep bed filtration series, delivering exceptional water clarity for larger residential and busy family pools. Featuring a generous 600mm diameter tank and an impressive 15m³/h flow rate, this filter handles pools up to 120,000 litres whilst maintaining the superior filtration performance that deep bed technology is renowned for.

The extended media bed depth creates significantly longer contact time between pool water and filter media compared to standard filters, capturing finer particles and retaining substantially more debris before backwashing is required. This translates directly to clearer water and fewer maintenance interruptions throughout the swimming season.

Constructed from premium bobbin-wound fibreglass reinforced polyester resin, the FDB600 combines exceptional durability with corrosion resistance that UK pool owners have trusted for decades. The factory-fitted side-mount 6-way multiport valve with 1½” connections ensures straightforward installation and intuitive operation. With a substantial 280kg media capacity, this filter delivers professional-grade performance for discerning pool owners who refuse to compromise on water quality.

⭐ Key Features

✅ Enhanced Deep Bed Filtration – Extended media bed depth maximises water contact time for superior particle removal and exceptional dirt holding capacity

✅ Powerful 15m³/h Flow Rate – Handles large residential pools up to 120,000 litres with efficient turnover times

✅ 600mm Diameter Tank – Larger filtration area (0.30m²) captures more debris and extends backwash intervals

✅ Premium Fibreglass Construction – Bobbin-wound polyester resin and glass fibre ensures long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance

✅ Side-Mount Multiport Valve Included – Factory-fitted 6-way valve with 1½” connections for effortless operation

✅ Integrated Pressure Gauge – Accurate pressure monitoring for precise backwash timing and optimal efficiency

✅ Manual Air Vent – Releases trapped air to maintain consistent filtration performance

✅ Manual Water Drain – Simplifies winterisation procedures essential for UK climate conditions

✅ Generous 280kg Media Capacity – Substantial sand bed provides extended filtration cycles between backwashes

✅ 2.5 Bar Maximum Working Pressure – Robust pressure rating accommodates various pump configurations

✅ Multi-Media Compatible – Accepts sand, glass media, or zeolite for customised filtration performance

⚙️ Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Filter Type	Deep Bed Sand Filter
Model	FDB600
Tank Diameter	600mm
Connections	1½” (38mm)
Flow Rate	15m³/h (14,000 L/h)
Filtration Area	0.30m²
Filtration Rating	20-40 microns (with sand media)
Media Capacity	280kg
Maximum Working Pressure	2.5 bar
Tank Material	Fibreglass reinforced polyester resin
Valve Type	6-way side-mount multiport
Valve Included	Yes
Pressure Gauge	Included
Air Vent	Manual
Water Drain	Manual
Manufacturer	Certikin (Fluidra Group)

📐 Pool Sizing Guide

The Certikin FDB600 is engineered for larger residential pools, providing optimal water clarity when correctly matched to your pool volume. Pool filtration systems should turn over the entire pool volume within 6-8 hours for residential installations.

Sizing Calculation:

Required Flow Rate (m³/h) = Pool Volume (m³) ÷ Turnover Time (hours)

Pool Size Compatibility:

Pool Type	Volume Range	Suitability
🏊 Large Above-Ground	40,000-70,000 L	✅ Excellent – optimal performance
🏠 Medium In-Ground	50,000-90,000 L	✅ Excellent – ideal match
🏠 Large In-Ground	90,000-120,000 L	✅ Very Good – suitable with 8-hour turnover
🏡 Family Pools	60,000-100,000 L	✅ Excellent – handles heavy use
🏢 Small Commercial	Consider FDB750 or commercial range	⚠️ May require larger filter

This Filter:

📍 Flow Rate: 15m³/h
📍 Optimal Pool Size: Up to 90,000 litres (6-hour turnover)
📍 Maximum Pool Size: Up to 120,000 litres (8-hour turnover)

💡 Tip: For high-use family pools or pools with heavy environmental debris loading, consider sizing up to ensure optimal performance and water clarity.

🛠️ Installation Requirements

Plumbing Connections:

Requirement	Specification
Inlet Connection	1½” (38mm)
Outlet Connection	1½” (38mm)
Valve Position	Side mount
Union Type	Standard threaded

Physical Installation:

Requirement	Details
Base	Solid, level concrete pad or paving recommended
Clearance Above	Minimum 500mm for valve operation and maintenance
Clearance Around	Minimum 400mm on all sides for access
Location	Protect from direct sunlight where possible
Weight Consideration	Plan for total filled weight (tank + 280kg media + water)

Pump Compatibility:

⚠️ Important: The filter must be paired with an appropriately sized pump to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Parameter	Recommendation
Recommended Pump Flow	10.0 – 15.0m³/h
Maximum Pump Flow	Do not exceed 15m³/h
Pump Head	Match to system requirements
Pump Power	Typically 0.75hp – 1.5hp depending on system

💡 Note: An undersized pump reduces filtration efficiency. An oversized pump can damage the filter media, reduce filtration quality, and shorten equipment lifespan.

🧹 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance Schedule:

Task	Frequency	Method
Check pressure gauge	Weekly	Note baseline reading when clean
Backwash filter	When pressure rises 0.5-0.7 bar above clean baseline	Run until sight glass clears (typically 2-4 minutes)
Rinse after backwash	After every backwash	30-60 seconds to settle media
Inspect valve seals	Seasonally	Replace if worn or leaking
Check media level	Annually	Top up if low
Full media replacement	Every 5-7 years (sand)	Replace completely

Pressure Gauge Guide:

📊 Clean filter baseline: 0.8-1.2 bar (typical)
📊 Backwash recommended: 0.5-0.7 bar above baseline
📊 Maximum operating: 2.5 bar

⚠️ Warning: Never exceed the maximum working pressure of 2.5 bar. If pressure remains high after backwashing, inspect for blockages, check valve operation, or consider media replacement.

Winterisation (Essential for UK Climate):

1. Switch off pump and allow system to depressurise
2. Set multiport valve to “Winterise” or between positions
3. Drain filter tank completely via manual drain
4. Remove and store drain plug safely
5. Leave multiport valve in intermediate position to prevent seal compression
6. Cover filter or relocate to frost-free storage if possible

⚠️ Critical: Never leave water in the filter during freezing conditions. Ice expansion can crack the tank and void warranty.

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💎 Filter Media Information

The Certikin FDB600’s substantial media capacity and deep bed design are optimised for use with graded filter media, providing enhanced particle capture through extended bed depth.

Recommended Media Configuration:

Layer	Media Type	Size	Purpose
Support Layer	Gravel	3.5mm	Supports sand bed, aids water distribution
Filtration Layer	Filter Sand	0.35-0.5mm	Primary filtration medium

Compatible Media Types:

Media Type	Filtration Rating	Lifespan	Benefits
Silica Sand	20-40 microns	5-7 years	Economical, proven performance
Glass Media	5-15 microns	10+ years	Finer filtration, longer life, eco-friendly
ZeoSand	3-5 microns	5 years	Superior clarity, reduced chemical demand

Media Capacity: 280kg total

💡 Professional Tip: Using a graded bed of 3.5mm gravel and 0.35-0.5mm sand is established practice for Certikin deep bed filters. This configuration optimises both filtration efficiency and backwashing performance.

Signs Media Needs Replacing:

• Persistently cloudy water despite correct chemical balance
• Shortened filter cycles requiring frequent backwashing
• Visible media particles in pool returns
• Media channelling or clumping
• Inability to maintain pressure after backwash

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🔬 Filtration Performance

Metric	Value
Filtration Rating (Sand)	20-40 microns
Filtration Rating (Glass)	5-15 microns
Filter Area	0.30m²
Design Flow Rate	15m³/h
Deep Bed Advantage	Extended contact time for superior particle capture

Micron Rating Guide:

Rating	What It Removes
40+ microns	Visible debris, leaves, large particles
20-40 microns	Sand, dirt, visible suspended particles
10-20 microns	Fine particles, some algae spores
5-10 microns	Very fine particles, most algae, cloudiness
Below 5 microns	Near invisible particles, bacteria

The FDB600’s 0.30m² filtration area – nearly 60% larger than the FDB500 – combined with deep bed technology ensures water remains in contact with filter media significantly longer than standard depth filters. This results in clearer water, extended backwash intervals, and consistently superior water quality throughout the swimming season.

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⚙️ Valve Positions & Functions

The included 6-way multiport valve provides complete control over all filtration and maintenance operations:

Position	Function	When to Use
Filter	Normal filtration mode	Daily operation – water flows through media and returns to pool
Backwash	Reverses flow to clean media	When pressure rises 0.5-0.7 bar above baseline
Rinse	Settles media after backwash	30-60 seconds after every backwash cycle
Waste	Bypasses filter, drains to waste	Vacuuming heavy debris, lowering water level
Recirculate	Bypasses filter, returns to pool	Distributing chemicals, troubleshooting
Closed	Stops all water flow	Maintenance, winterisation

⚠️ Important: Always switch off the pump before changing valve positions. Moving the valve under pressure can damage internal components and void warranty.

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🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Pool Size	Suitability
🏠 Large Residential In-Ground	60,000-120,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏊 Large Above-Ground	40,000-70,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏡 Busy Family Pools	60,000-100,000 L	✅ Ideal – handles heavy bather loads
🏠 Holiday Let Pools	Up to 90,000 L	✅ Very Good – reduced maintenance
🧖 Large Swim Spas	15,000-25,000 L	✅ Premium Choice
🏢 Small Commercial	Up to 80,000 L	⚠️ May suit light commercial – verify with requirements

Recommended For:

• Large family pools with high swimmer traffic
• Pool owners seeking exceptional water clarity
• Upgrades from standard depth filters on larger pools
• Installations requiring extended backwash intervals
• Holiday rental properties requiring reliable, low-maintenance filtration
• Pools in areas with heavy environmental debris loading

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size pool will this filter handle? A: The FDB600 is suitable for pools up to 120,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover, or optimally up to 90,000 litres with a 6-hour turnover. The powerful 15m³/h flow rate provides excellent filtration for larger residential pools and busy family pools.

Q: How often do I need to backwash? A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.5-0.7 bar above your clean baseline reading, typically every 1-2 weeks during swimming season. The FDB600’s generous media capacity extends intervals compared to smaller filters.

Q: What filter media should I use? A: The FDB600 is compatible with silica sand (0.35-0.5mm), glass media, or zeolite. Certikin recommends a graded bed using 3.5mm gravel as a support layer beneath the main filter sand. Total media capacity is 280kg.

Q: How long does filter media last? A: Silica sand typically lasts 5-7 years, while glass media can last 10+ years. ZeoSand has a similar lifespan to sand but offers finer filtration. Always replace media if water clarity cannot be maintained.

Q: What pump do I need? A: Pair with a pump delivering between 10.0-15.0m³/h. Never exceed the filter’s maximum flow rate of 15m³/h. A typical 1hp to 1.5hp pump suits most installations.

Q: Is the multiport valve included? A: Yes, the FDB600 comes complete with a side-mounted 6-way multiport valve with 1½” connections, pressure gauge, manual air vent, and manual water drain – ready for installation.

Q: What’s the advantage over the FDB500? A: The FDB600 offers 58% more flow rate (15m³/h vs 9.5m³/h), 58% more filtration area (0.30m² vs 0.19m²), and 44% more media capacity (280kg vs 195kg). This makes it suitable for pools up to 120,000L compared to 76,000L for the FDB500.

Q: What warranty is included? A: Certikin products are backed by manufacturer warranty. Contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and conditions applicable to your installation.

Q: Can I upgrade from glass media to improve filtration? A: Absolutely. Glass media provides finer filtration (5-15 microns versus 20-40 microns for sand), lasts longer, and requires less frequent backwashing. It’s an excellent upgrade for the FDB600.

 

🏆 Why Choose the Certikin FDB600

✅ Superior Filtration Capacity – 0.30m² filtration area and 15m³/h flow rate handles larger pools with ease

✅ Enhanced Water Clarity – Deep bed design captures finer particles for noticeably cleaner water

✅ Extended Maintenance Intervals – 280kg media capacity means longer periods between backwashes

✅ Premium Build Quality – Bobbin-wound fibreglass construction from one of the UK’s most trusted manufacturers

✅ Complete Installation Package – Filter arrives with multiport valve, pressure gauge, and fittings pre-installed

✅ Versatile Media Options – Compatible with sand, glass, or zeolite for customised filtration

✅ Ideal Size for Larger UK Pools – 600mm diameter perfectly suits family and larger residential pools

✅ Proven Reliability – Certikin has been the UK’s leading pool equipment supplier for over 50 years

✅ Outstanding Value – Professional-grade deep bed filtration at a competitive price point

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Company – Local support and expertise you can rely on

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick despatch to get your pool up and running

✅ Expert Advice – Our team understands pool filtration and can help with sizing and installation queries

✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Certikin equipment

✅ Full Warranty Support – We stand behind every product we sell

✅ Easy Returns – Hassle-free 30-day returns policy

✅ Complete Range – Filter media, spare parts, and accessories all available

🌟 Summary

The Certikin FDB600 Deep Bed Sand Filter delivers powerful, professional-grade filtration for larger residential pools up to 120,000 litres. With its robust 600mm fibreglass tank, 15m³/h flow rate, 0.30m² filtration area, and generous 280kg media capacity, this filter provides the enhanced water clarity and extended maintenance intervals that deep bed technology is renowned for. Complete with factory-fitted side-mount 6-way multiport valve, pressure gauge, and 1½” connections, the FDB600 arrives ready for installation. The perfect choice for pool owners with larger pools who demand exceptional filtration performance backed by Certikin’s UK-trusted quality.