🌊 Certikin Lacron ZZ3200 18″ Top Mount Sand Filter – Complete Kit with Media

Effortless pool maintenance with professional-grade filtration for sparkling clean water

💧 Product Overview

The Certikin Lacron ZZ3200 is a complete 18″ top mount sand filter system designed for smaller to medium-sized residential swimming pools. This comprehensive package includes the filter tank, 6-position multiport valve, pressure gauge, and 75kg of filter media, providing everything needed for immediate installation and operation.

Manufactured by Waterco under the trusted Lacron brand, this filter features a robust glass reinforced polyester (GRP) tank that delivers exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. With over 30 years of proven performance in the UK pool industry, Lacron filters have earned their reputation as the number one choice for pool professionals and homeowners alike.

The ZZ3200 provides reliable filtration for pools up to 50,000 litres, making it ideal for domestic in-ground and above-ground installations. The energy-efficient collection and distribution pipework ensures optimal water flow whilst minimising running costs, and the clear-view service lid allows for quick visual inspections without disturbing the system.

✨ Key Features

• ✅ Complete Ready-to-Install Package – Includes tank, multiport valve, pressure gauge, and 75kg filter media for immediate setup
• ✅ Glass Reinforced Polyester Construction – High-gloss, non-corrosive FRP tank delivers exceptional durability and UV resistance
• ✅ 6-Position Multiport Valve – Filter, backwash, rinse, waste, recirculate, and closed positions for complete operational control
• ✅ 8.5 m³/hr Flow Rate – Suitable for pools up to 50,000 litres with optimal turnover times
• ✅ Clear-View Service Lid – 9-inch easy-access lid enables quick visual inspections and straightforward maintenance
• ✅ Hydraulically Balanced Laterals – Maximises water flow and filtration efficiency across the entire filter bed
• ✅ Quick-Connect Barrel Unions – Speed-style connections for rapid installation and servicing
• ✅ Winter Drain Tap – Easy-access drainage simplifies winterisation and protects the filter during cold months
• ✅ Pressure Gauge Included – Monitor filter performance and know precisely when backwashing is required
• ✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – 5 years (1+4 pro-rata) on tank plus 1 year on all components demonstrates manufacturer confidence

🔩 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Filter Type	Top Mount Sand Filter
Model	ZZ3200 (TMV-18)
Pool Capacity	Up to 50,000 litres
Flow Rate	8.5 m³/hr
Filter Area	0.166 m²
Filtration Rating	20-40 microns (with sand)
Tank Diameter	460 mm (18″)
Bed Depth	350 mm
Overall Height	885 mm
Media Capacity	75 kg (sand) / 60 kg (glass)
Working Pressure	2.5 bar (36 psi)
Test Pressure	4 bar (60 psi)
Inlet/Outlet Size	1½” (50 mm)
Tank Material	Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP/FRP)
Valve Type	6-Position Top Mount Multiport
Service Lid	9″ (229 mm) Clear View
Warranty	5 years (1+4) tank / 1 year components

📏 Pool Sizing Guide

The ZZ3200 filter is engineered to deliver optimal performance when matched correctly to your pool size. For effective filtration, the entire pool volume should circulate through the filter every 6-8 hours.

Sizing Formula:

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

Pool Size Compatibility:

Pool Type	Volume Range	Suitability
🏊 Small above-ground	Up to 20,000 L	Excellent – ideal match
🏊 Medium above-ground	20,000-40,000 L	Very good – comfortable capacity
🏊 Large above-ground	40,000-50,000 L	Good – at maximum capacity
🏠 Small in-ground	Up to 30,000 L	Excellent – optimal performance
🏠 Medium in-ground	30,000-50,000 L	Good – suitable for most conditions
🏠 Large in-ground	50,000+ L	Consider larger filter model

This Filter:

📍 Flow Rate: 8.5 m³/hr
📍 Suitable for pools up to: 50,000 litres
📍 Optimal turnover time: 6-8 hours

💡 Tip: For pools with heavy bather loads or significant debris exposure, consider sizing up to the next filter model for improved performance and longer intervals between backwashes.

🛠️ Installation Requirements

Plumbing Connections:

Requirement	Specification
Inlet Connection	1½” (50 mm)
Outlet Connection	1½” (50 mm)
Valve Position	Top mount
Connection Type	Quick-connect barrel unions

Physical Installation:

Requirement	Details
Base	Solid, level concrete slab or firm ground
Clearance above	Sufficient space for multiport valve operation
Clearance around	Adequate access for maintenance and servicing
Location	Away from flooding risk, guttering, and garden hollows

Pump Compatibility:

⚠️ Important: The filter must be matched with an appropriate pump for optimal performance.

Parameter	Requirement
Recommended pump flow rate	6-8.5 m³/hr
Maximum pump flow rate	8.5 m³/hr

The pump should never exceed the filter’s maximum flow rate of 8.5 m³/hr. Oversized pumps can force debris through the filter bed, reducing filtration effectiveness and potentially damaging the laterals.

🔄 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance Schedule:

Task	Frequency	Details
Check pressure gauge	Weekly	Note baseline reading when clean
Backwash filter	When pressure rises 0.5 bar (7 psi) above baseline	Until sight glass runs clear
Rinse after backwash	After every backwash	10-15 seconds until clear
Inspect seals and O-rings	Seasonally	Replace if worn or damaged
Check media level	Annually	Top up if required
Full media replacement	Every 5-7 years (sand)	Complete change recommended

Pressure Gauge Guide:

📊 Clean filter baseline: Note and record on initial startup
📊 Backwash required: 0.5 bar (7 psi / 50 kPa) above baseline
📊 Maximum operating pressure: 2.5 bar (36 psi)

Backwashing Procedure:

1. Switch off the pump
2. Turn multiport valve to BACKWASH position
3. Switch on pump and run until sight glass is clear (2-3 minutes typically)
4. Switch off pump
5. Turn valve to RINSE position
6. Run pump for 10-15 seconds until clear
7. Return valve to FILTER position and resume normal operation

Winterisation (UK Climate):

• Drain filter tank completely via the winter drain tap
• Move multiport valve to winterise position (between Filter and Waste)
• Remove any drain plugs
• Drain all pipework thoroughly
• Store in frost-free location or cover to protect from freezing
• Never leave water in the filter during freezing conditions

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🪨 Filter Media Information

Compatible Media Types:

Media Type	Filtration Rating	Lifespan	Capacity Required	Benefits
Silica Sand (16/30)	20-40 microns	5-7 years	75 kg	Economical, widely available, easy to maintain
Glass Media	5-15 microns	10+ years	60 kg	Finer filtration, longer life, eco-friendly
Lacronite/Zeolite	3-5 microns	5 years	60 kg	Superior clarity, excellent dirt retention

Media Capacity: 75 kg sand or 60 kg glass/Lacronite

💡 Tip: Glass media provides significantly finer filtration than standard sand and can last twice as long, making it an excellent investment despite the higher initial cost.

Signs Media Needs Replacing:

• Poor water clarity despite correct chemical balance
• Short filter cycles between backwashes
• Cloudy water returning to pool after filtering
• Channelling or clumping of filter media
• Media loss during backwashing

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🔬 Filtration Performance

Metric	Value
Flow Rate	8.5 m³/hr
Filter Area	0.166 m²
Bed Depth	350 mm

Micron Rating Guide:

Rating	What It Captures	Media Type
40+ microns	Visible debris, leaves, large particles	–
20-40 microns	Sand, dirt, visible suspended particles	Silica Sand
10-20 microns	Fine particles, some algae spores	High-rate sand
5-15 microns	Very fine particles, most algae	Glass Media
3-5 microns	Ultra-fine particles, bacteria, all algae	Lacronite/Zeolite

The Lacron ZZ3200 operates on the principle of depth filtration. As water passes through the filter bed, dirt and debris become trapped in the tiny spaces between media particles. The hydraulically balanced laterals ensure even water distribution across the entire filter bed, maximising filtration efficiency and preventing channelling.

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⚙️ Valve Positions & Functions

Position	Function
Filter	Normal filtration – water flows through media and returns to pool
Backwash	Reverses flow to clean media, directing debris to waste
Rinse	Settles media after backwash, clears remaining debris to waste
Waste	Bypasses filter, drains water directly to waste (for lowering water level)
Recirculate	Bypasses filter, returns water directly to pool (for chemical distribution)
Closed	Stops all flow through filter (for pump servicing only – never with pump running)

⚠️ Important: Always switch off the pump before changing valve positions. Operating the valve with the pump running can damage the valve seal and spider gasket.

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Pool Size	Suitability
🏠 Residential above-ground	Up to 50,000 L	Excellent
🏠 Residential in-ground	Up to 50,000 L	Excellent
🏡 Holiday home/rental property	Up to 45,000 L	Very good
🏊 Swim spa combination	Up to 40,000 L	Very good

Best Suited For:

• Domestic in-ground swimming pools up to 50m³
• Above-ground pools requiring permanent filtration
• Pool owners seeking reliable, low-maintenance operation
• Installations where space is at a premium
• Retrofit replacements for existing 18″ filters

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size pool will this filter handle?

A: The ZZ3200 is suitable for pools up to 50,000 litres (50 m³) with a flow rate of 8.5 m³/hr, providing a complete turnover in approximately 6 hours.

Q: How often do I need to backwash?

A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.5 bar (7 psi) above your clean baseline reading. This is typically every 1-2 weeks during swimming season, though frequency depends on pool usage and debris load.

Q: What filter media should I use?

A: The filter is compatible with 16/30 grade silica sand (75 kg), glass media (60 kg), or Lacronite/Zeolite (60 kg). Sand is the most economical option, whilst glass media offers finer filtration and longer lifespan.

Q: How long does filter media last?

A: Silica sand typically lasts 5-7 years, glass media can last 10+ years, and Lacronite/Zeolite approximately 5 years. Replace when you notice declining water clarity or shorter backwash cycles.

Q: What pump do I need?

A: Match with a pump delivering between 6-8.5 m³/hr. The pump flow rate should never exceed the filter’s maximum of 8.5 m³/hr to ensure effective filtration and prevent damage.

Q: Is the filter media included?

A: Yes, the ZZ3200 package includes 75 kg of filter media, providing everything needed for immediate installation and operation.

Q: What warranty is included?

A: Waterco provides a 5-year warranty (1 year full + 4 years pro-rata) on the tank and 1-year warranty on all other components.

Q: Can I use this filter with a salt chlorinator?

A: Yes, the GRP construction is fully compatible with salt chlorinated pools and resistant to chemical corrosion.

Q: What connections do I need?

A: The filter uses 1½” (50 mm) quick-connect barrel unions for easy installation. Standard 50 mm PVC pipework is compatible.

Q: How do I winterise the filter?

A: Drain completely via the winter drain tap, move the multiport valve to the winterise position, remove drain plugs, and ensure all water is expelled from the system to prevent frost damage.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 Installation Manual – Complete installation and operation guide

📄 Product Brochure – Full specifications and technical data

🏆 Why Choose the Certikin Lacron ZZ3200

• ✅ Complete Package – Tank, valve, gauge, and media included for immediate installation
• ✅ Proven Reliability – Over 30 years of trusted performance in the UK pool industry
• ✅ Durable Construction – High-gloss GRP tank resists corrosion and UV degradation
• ✅ Easy Maintenance – Clear-view lid and quick-connect unions simplify servicing
• ✅ Perfect for Medium Pools – Optimised for domestic pools up to 50,000 litres
• ✅ Excellent Warranty – 5-year tank warranty plus 1 year on components
• ✅ Energy Efficient – Hydraulically balanced design minimises pump strain and running costs
• ✅ Professional Quality – The number one choice for UK pool installers

🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs

• ✅ UK-Based Company – Local support from pool and spa specialists
• ✅ Fast UK Delivery – Prompt dispatch to get your pool running quickly
• ✅ Expert Advice – Knowledgeable team for sizing and technical questions
• ✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Certikin/Waterco products
• ✅ Full Warranty Support – Direct assistance with any warranty matters
• ✅ Easy Returns – 30-day return policy on unused items
• ✅ Genuine Parts Available – Replacement components, spare parts, and filter media in stock

✨ Summary

The Certikin Lacron ZZ3200 delivers professional-grade filtration for domestic swimming pools in one complete, ready-to-install package. With its durable glass reinforced polyester construction, 8.5 m³/hr flow rate, and proven Lacron reliability, this 18″ top mount sand filter provides crystal-clear water for pools up to 50,000 litres. The inclusion of media, multiport valve, and pressure gauge means you have everything needed to achieve sparkling pool water from day one. Backed by a comprehensive 5-year tank warranty, the ZZ3200 represents outstanding value for homeowners seeking dependable, low-maintenance pool filtration.