Calplas FA 10 520mm Side Mount Filter (2″ Connections)
£1,501.20 Inc VAT
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🌊 Calplas FA-10 520mm Side Mount Sand Filter – 48,000 Litre Pool Capacity
Industrial-grade polyester filtration engineered for crystal clear water and decades of reliable performance.
💧 Product Overview
The Calplas FA-10 is a premium industrial-quality polyester sand filter designed for discerning pool owners who demand exceptional filtration performance and long-lasting durability. Manufactured by Calplas, a world-renowned filter producer established in 1970, this 520mm side-mount filter delivers superior water clarity for residential swimming pools up to 48,000 litres.
Built from reinforced fibre-laminated polyester with internal steel reinforcement, the FA-10 features a special AFM diffusor system that ensures ideal water distribution across the filter bed, eliminating crater formation and channelling that can reduce filtration efficiency. The high-resistance methacrylate transparent lid allows easy visual inspection of the filter media, whilst the robust construction provides exceptional corrosion resistance for use in demanding pool environments.
With a 5-year tank warranty and an estimated lifespan exceeding 30 years, the Calplas FA-10 represents outstanding value for pool owners seeking professional-grade filtration equipment.
✨ Key Features
- ✅ Industrial-Grade Polyester Construction – Reinforced fibre-laminated tank with internal steel reinforcement for exceptional durability and corrosion resistance
- ✅ Special AFM Diffusor System – Ensures perfect water distribution over the filter bed, preventing crater formation and channelling
- ✅ High-Resistance Transparent Lid – Methacrylate cover allows visual inspection of media condition without disassembly
- ✅ 6 m³/h Flow Rate – Delivers efficient filtration for pools up to 48,000 litres with 8-hour turnover
- ✅ 0.20 m² Filter Area – Optimised surface area for effective particle capture
- ✅ 2.5 Bar Maximum Operating Pressure – Robust design tested to 3.75 bar for reliable performance
- ✅ Integrated Pressure Gauge – ¼” manometer included for easy monitoring of filter condition
- ✅ Automatic Air Vent – Built-in venting eliminates air lock issues
- ✅ Multi-Media Compatible – Accepts sand, gravel, AFM glass media, or ZeoSand
- ✅ Side Mount Valve Position – 2″ threaded connections for easy plumbing installation
- ✅ Temperature Resistant – Rated for water temperatures up to 40°C
- ✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Manufacturer-backed quality assurance
⚙️ Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Side Mount Sand Filter |
| Tank Diameter | 520 mm |
| Tank Height | 800 mm |
| Filter Area | 0.20 m² |
| Flow Rate (Standard @ 30 m³/h/m²) | 6 m³/h |
| Flow Rate (Backwash @ 50 m³/h/m²) | 10 m³/h |
| Pool Capacity | Up to 48,000 litres (8-hour turnover) |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 2.5 bar |
| Test Pressure | 3.75 bar |
| Inlet/Outlet Connections | 2″ Female Thread |
| Filter Opening Diameter | 190 mm |
| Distance from Ground | 310 mm |
| Distance Between Connections | 190 mm |
| Tank Material | Industrial-grade fibre-laminated polyester |
| Tank Colour | Blue (RAL 5015) |
| Weight (Empty) | 17 kg |
| Temperature Rating | Up to 40°C |
| Pressure Gauge | ¼” included |
| Air Vent | Automatic, included |
| Transparent Lid | Methacrylate, included |
| Valve Type | 6-way valve (sold separately) |
| Warranty | 5 Years (tank) |
📐 Pool Sizing Guide
Sizing Principle: The filter flow rate should turn over your entire pool volume within 6-8 hours for optimal water clarity and hygiene.
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 – generous capacity margin |
| 🏊 Medium above-ground | 20,000-36,000 L | ✅ Ideal – optimal 6-hour turnover |
| 🏊 Large above-ground | 36,000-48,000 L | ✅ Good – meets 8-hour turnover |
| 🏠 Small in-ground | Up to 36,000 L | ✅ Ideal match |
| 🏠 Medium in-ground | 36,000-48,000 L | ✅ Suitable with 8-hour turnover |
| 🏠 Large in-ground | 48,000+ L | ⚠️ Consider FA-15 or larger model |
This Filter:
📍 Flow Rate: 6 m³/h (standard filtration)
📍 Optimal for pools: Up to 36,000 litres (6-hour turnover)
📍 Maximum pool size: 48,000 litres (8-hour turnover)
🛠️ Installation Requirements
Plumbing Connections:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Inlet Connection | 2″ Female Thread |
| Outlet Connection | 2″ Female Thread |
| Valve Position | Side mount |
| Connection Spacing | 190 mm between inlet/outlet |
Physical Installation:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Base | Solid, level concrete pad or paving required |
| Clearance Above | Minimum 400 mm for lid removal and media inspection |
| Clearance Around | Minimum 300 mm for valve operation and maintenance |
| Distance from Ground | 310 mm (built-in legs) |
Pump Compatibility:
⚠️ Filter must be matched with an appropriate pump.
Recommended pump flow rate: 4-6 m³/h for optimal filtration
Maximum pump flow rate: 10 m³/h (backwash capacity)
Pump must not exceed filter's maximum flow rate to avoid media damage.
Valve Requirements:
ℹ️ 6-way multiport valve sold separately
Besgo backwash valve fits as standard
Coupling set required (stated separately)
Optional automatic or manual valve selection available
🔄 Maintenance Guide
Routine Maintenance:
| Task | Frequency | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Check pressure gauge | Weekly | Note baseline reading; normal operating range 0.5-1.5 bar |
| Backwash | When pressure rises 0.3-0.5 bar above baseline | Run until sight glass clears (typically 2-3 minutes) |
| Rinse after backwash | After each backwash | Run for 30-60 seconds to settle media |
| Inspect transparent lid | Monthly | Check for cracks, ensure seal integrity |
| Check seals and O-rings | Seasonally | Replace if worn, cracked, or leaking |
| Inspect media level | Annually | Top up if settled below recommended level |
| Full media replacement | Every 5-7 years (sand) / 10+ years (glass) | Replace all media completely |
Pressure Gauge Guide:
📊 Clean filter baseline: 0.5-1.0 bar
📊 Backwash recommended: 0.3-0.5 bar above baseline
📊 Maximum safe pressure: 2.5 bar
⚠️ If pressure exceeds 2.5 bar, stop pump immediately and investigate
Winterisation (UK Climate):
- Drain filter tank completely via drain plug
- Remove and store drain plug safely
- Set valve to “Winterise” position if available, or remove valve
- Cover filter or relocate to frost-free storage
- Never leave water in filter during freezing conditions – ice expansion can crack the tank
🪨 Filter Media Information
Compatible Media Types:
| Media Type | Quantity Required | Filtration Rating | Lifespan | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sand + Gravel | 100 kg sand + 25 kg gravel | 20-40 microns | 5-7 years | Economical, widely available |
| AFM Glass Media | 105 kg (63 kg Grade 1 + 42 kg Grade 2) | 5-15 microns | 10+ years | Finer filtration, bio-resistant |
| ZeoSand | See manufacturer guidelines | 3-5 microns | 5 years | Superior clarity, ammonia removal |
Media Capacity:
- Sand/Gravel: 4 bags (25 kg) sand + 1 bag (25 kg) gravel = 125 kg total
- AFM Glass: 3 bags (21 kg) AFM Grade 1 + 2 bags (21 kg) AFM Grade 2 = 105 kg total
Signs Media Needs Replacing:
- Poor water clarity despite correct chemical balance
- Short filter cycles between backwashes
- Cloudy water returning to pool after filtration
- Visible channelling or cratering in media bed
- Media escaping into pool
🔬 Filtration Performance
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Filter Area | 0.20 m² |
| Standard Flow Rate | 6 m³/h @ 30 m³/h/m² |
| Backwash Flow Rate | 10 m³/h @ 50 m³/h/m² |
Filtration Rating by Media:
| Media Type | Micron Rating | What It Captures |
|---|---|---|
| Sand | 20-40 microns | Visible debris, leaves, larger particles |
| AFM Glass | 5-15 microns | Fine particles, most algae, improved clarity |
| ZeoSand | 3-5 microns | Very fine particles, bacteria, exceptional clarity |
Micron Rating Guide:
| Rating | Particle Size Captured |
|---|---|
| 40+ microns | Visible debris, leaves, hair |
| 20-40 microns | Sand, dirt, visible particles |
| 10-20 microns | Fine particles, some algae spores |
| 5-10 microns | Very fine particles, most algae |
| Below 5 microns | Microscopic particles, superior water polish |
⚙️ Valve Positions & Functions
The Calplas FA-10 requires a 6-way multiport valve (sold separately). Standard valve positions include:
| Position | Function | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Filter | Normal filtration mode | Daily operation – water passes through media and returns clean to pool |
| Backwash | Reverse flow to clean media | When pressure gauge reads 0.3-0.5 bar above baseline |
| Rinse | Settle media after backwash | Run for 30-60 seconds after every backwash |
| Waste | Bypass filter, drain to waste | Vacuuming heavy debris, lowering water level, removing algae |
| Recirculate | Bypass filter, return to pool | Distributing chemicals quickly, testing pump without filtration |
| Closed | Stop all water flow | Maintenance, pump basket cleaning, valve servicing |
⚠️ Important: Always turn off pump before changing valve position to prevent damage.
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Pool Size | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Residential above-ground | Up to 48,000 L | ✅ Excellent choice |
| 🏠 Residential in-ground | Up to 48,000 L | ✅ Ideal for medium pools |
| 🏡 Holiday home pool | Up to 40,000 L | ✅ Perfect – low maintenance |
| 🧖 Large swim spa | Up to 10,000 L | ✅ Generous capacity |
Best Suited For:
- Pool owners seeking industrial-quality construction
- Those requiring long-term reliability with minimal maintenance
- Installations where corrosion resistance is important
- Users wanting flexibility to upgrade to glass media for finer filtration
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size pool will this filter handle? A: The Calplas FA-10 is suitable for pools up to 48,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover, or up to 36,000 litres for optimal 6-hour turnover. The 6 m³/h flow rate provides excellent filtration for most residential pools.
Q: How often do I need to backwash? A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.3-0.5 bar above your clean baseline reading. This is typically every 1-2 weeks during swimming season, depending on pool usage and debris levels.
Q: What filter media should I use? A: The FA-10 is compatible with standard pool sand (100 kg + 25 kg gravel), AFM activated filter glass (105 kg), or ZeoSand. Glass media provides finer filtration (5-15 microns vs 20-40 microns for sand) and lasts longer.
Q: How long does filter media last? A: Sand typically lasts 5-7 years with proper maintenance. AFM glass media can last 10+ years due to its bio-resistant properties and resistance to biofilm formation.
Q: What pump do I need? A: Match with a pump delivering 4-6 m³/h for optimal filtration. The maximum pump flow should not exceed 10 m³/h (the filter’s backwash capacity). Oversized pumps can damage filter internals and reduce filtration efficiency.
Q: Is the multiport valve included? A: No, the 6-way multiport valve is sold separately. The filter is compatible with standard Besgo backwash valves. Both automatic and manual valve options are available.
Q: What warranty is included? A: The Calplas FA-10 comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty on the tank. Contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and conditions.
Q: Can I use this filter with saltwater pools? A: Yes, the industrial-grade polyester construction provides excellent resistance to chlorine and saltwater environments.
Q: What colour is the filter tank? A: The tank is finished in blue (RAL 5015). White finish is also available on request.
Q: How do I winterise this filter? A: Drain the tank completely, remove the drain plug, and store in a frost-free location or cover securely. Never leave water in the filter during freezing conditions.
📥 Downloads & Resources
📄 Calplas FA Series Technical Datasheet – Complete specifications for all FA models
🏆 Why Choose the Calplas FA-10
- ✅ Industrial-Grade Construction – Fibre-laminated polyester with steel reinforcement for 30+ year lifespan
- ✅ Superior Filtration Technology – Special AFM diffusor prevents channelling for consistent water clarity
- ✅ Proven Manufacturer – Calplas has been producing world-class filters since 1970
- ✅ Versatile Media Options – Use sand for economy or upgrade to AFM glass for finer filtration
- ✅ Easy Maintenance – Transparent lid, integrated pressure gauge, and automatic air vent
- ✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Peace of mind with manufacturer-backed quality guarantee
- ✅ Excellent Value – Professional-grade performance at competitive pricing
🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
- ✅ UK-based company with local customer support
- ✅ Fast UK delivery on all orders
- ✅ Expert advice from pool and spa specialists
- ✅ Competitive pricing on all Calplas products
- ✅ Full warranty support and after-sales service
- ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
- ✅ Compatible filter media, valves, and spare parts available
- ✅ Technical support for sizing and installation queries
💧 Summary
The Calplas FA-10 520mm Side Mount Sand Filter delivers industrial-grade filtration performance for residential pools up to 48,000 litres. Featuring robust fibre-laminated polyester construction with a special AFM diffusor system, this filter ensures crystal clear water through optimal media distribution. With a 6 m³/h flow rate, 0.20 m² filter area, and compatibility with sand or glass media, the FA-10 offers versatile, long-lasting performance backed by a 5-year tank warranty. Order today for professional-grade pool filtration.
| Weight | 17 Kilograms |
|---|---|
| Supplier | GoldenC |
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