🌊 Calplas HFS-15 640mm Side Mount Sand Filter – Up to 74,000 Litre Pool Capacity

Effortless pool maintenance with professional-grade industrial filtration technology

💧 Product Overview

The Calplas HFS-15 is a premium industrial-quality polyester sand filter engineered for superior water clarity and long-lasting performance. Manufactured in Spain by Calplas, this side-mounted filter features a robust 640mm diameter tank constructed from hand-laid glass reinforced polyester (GRP) with internal steel reinforcement for exceptional durability.

What sets the HFS-15 apart is its significantly taller design compared to standard filters, containing almost 50% more filter medium than comparable models. This increased filter bed height provides extended contact time for superior filtration and flocculation, resulting in consistently crystal-clear pool water.

The HFS-15 and larger HFS models feature a larger 305mm transparent filter cover and contain approximately 20% more filter medium than smaller models in the range. Equipped with a special AFM diffusor for ideal water distribution, this filter prevents crater formation in the media bed whilst ensuring optimal filtration efficiency. Suitable for pools up to 74,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover, the HFS-15 represents the perfect balance of capacity and performance for medium to large residential pools.

⭐ Key Features

✅ Industrial-Quality GRP Construction – Hand-laid glass reinforced polyester tank with internal steel reinforcement for maximum durability and longevity

✅ 50% More Filter Medium – Significantly taller design than standard filters provides almost 50% more media capacity for superior filtration performance

✅ Large Transparent Lid – 305mm diameter transparent cover allows easy visual inspection of filter media and water flow

✅ Special AFM Diffusor – Engineered water distribution system prevents crater formation in the filter bed for consistent filtration

✅ 2.5 Bar Maximum Operating Pressure – Industrial-grade pressure rating with 3.75 bar test pressure (7 bar versions available on request)

✅ 6-Way Valve Compatible – Accepts exclusive Calplas 6-way valve with optional automatic or manual selection; Besgo backwash valve fits as standard

✅ Flexible Media Options – Compatible with traditional sand/gravel or advanced AFM activated filter media for enhanced filtration down to 1 micron

✅ Temperature Resistant – Rated for continuous operation up to 40°C

✅ Complete Filter Package – Includes pressure gauge, air vent, drain plug, and transparent lid as standard

✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Comprehensive manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind

✅ Also Available in White – Alternative colour option for aesthetic preferences

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Filter Type	Sand / AFM Media Filter
Tank Diameter	640 mm
Overall Height	1,090 mm
Filter Area	0.31 m²
Flow Rate (Normal Filtration)	9.3 m³/h (at 30 m³/h/m²)
Flow Rate (Backwash Capacity)	15.5 m³/h (at 50 m³/h/m²)
Pool Capacity (6-hr Turnover)	Up to 56,000 litres
Pool Capacity (8-hr Turnover)	Up to 74,000 litres
Sand Capacity	10 kg sand + 2 kg gravel
AFM Media Capacity	6 × 21 kg bags Grade 1 + 6 × 21 kg bags Grade 2
Maximum Operating Pressure	2.5 bar
Test Pressure	3.75 bar
Temperature Rating	Up to 40°C
Inlet/Outlet Connections	2″ (50 mm) threaded
Filter Opening Diameter	305 mm
Distance from Ground	310 mm
Distance Between Connections	190 mm
Tank Material	Hand-laid GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester)
Reinforcement	Internal steel reinforced
Weight (Empty)	42 kg
Valve Type	Side mount (6-way valve optional)
Warranty	5 years (tank)
Product Code	1519250115
Manufacturer	Calplas (Spain)
Standard	Manufactured to EN 13121-3

📏 Pool Sizing Guide

Sizing Principle: The filter flow rate should turn over the entire pool volume within 6-8 hours for optimal water quality.

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
🏊 Medium above-ground	20,000 – 40,000 L	✅ Excellent – ideal match
🏊 Large above-ground	40,000 – 60,000 L	✅ Very Good – comfortable margin
🏠 Small in-ground	Up to 50,000 L	✅ Excellent – optimal performance
🏠 Medium in-ground	50,000 – 74,000 L	✅ Good – within capacity
🏠 Large in-ground	74,000+ L	⚠️ Consider HFS-20 or HFS-30

This Filter:

📍 Normal Filtration Flow Rate: 9.3 m³/h
📍 Maximum Backwash Flow Rate: 15.5 m³/h
📍 Recommended Pool Size: Up to 56,000 litres (6-hour turnover)
📍 Maximum Pool Size: Up to 74,000 litres (8-hour turnover)

🔌 Installation Requirements

Plumbing:

Requirement	Specification
Inlet Connection	2″ (50 mm) female thread
Outlet Connection	2″ (50 mm) female thread
Connection Spacing	190 mm between ports
Valve Position	Side mount

Physical Installation:

Requirement	Details
Base	Solid, level concrete or paving slab required
Minimum Height Clearance	800 mm above filter for lid removal
Distance from Ground	310 mm (built-in legs)
Access Clearance	500 mm all around for maintenance

Pump Compatibility:

⚠️ Important: Filter must be matched with an appropriately sized pump.

Parameter	Specification
Recommended Pump Flow Rate	6 – 10 m³/h
Maximum Pump Flow Rate	Do not exceed 15.5 m³/h
Pump Head Consideration	Allow for filter pressure drop

💡 Tip: For optimal filtration efficiency, select a pump that delivers flow at the lower end of the filter’s capacity range. Higher flow rates reduce filtration efficiency.

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🧹 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance:

Task	When	How
Check pressure gauge	Weekly	Normal operating pressure varies by installation
Backwash filter	When pressure rises 0.5-1 bar above clean 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, debris, or discolouration
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) or 10-15 years (AFM)	Replace completely

Pressure Gauge Guide:

📊 Clean filter baseline: Note pressure after fresh backwash
📊 Backwash needed: 0.5-1 bar above baseline
📊 Maximum operating pressure: 2.5 bar – do not exceed

Winterisation (UK Climate):

❄️ Essential steps for winter protection:

1. Turn off pump and close valves
2. Set multiport valve to “Winterise” or between positions
3. Drain filter tank completely via drain plug
4. Remove and safely store drain plug indoors
5. Leave air vent open to prevent pressure build-up
6. Cover filter or store in frost-free location if possible
7. Never leave water in filter during freezing conditions

⚠️ Warning: Frost damage is not covered under warranty. Always drain completely before temperatures drop below 0°C.

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🪨 Filter Media Information

Compatible Media:

Media Type	Filtration Rating	Lifespan	Benefits
Silica Sand	20-40 microns	5-7 years	Economical, proven performance, easy to source
Glass Media	10-15 microns	10+ years	Finer filtration, lighter weight, eco-friendly
AFM (Activated Filter Media)	1-5 microns	10-15 years	Superior clarity, self-sterilising, reduces chemical use
ZeoSand	3-5 microns	5 years	Excellent clarity, ammonia removal properties

Media Capacity for HFS-15:

Media Type	Quantity Required
Sand + Gravel	10 kg sand (0.4-0.8 mm) + 2 kg gravel (2-4 mm)
AFM Media	6 × 21 kg Grade 1 + 6 × 21 kg Grade 2

💡 Note: The HFS-15 is specifically designed with a special AFM diffusor for optimal performance with AFM activated filter media, though it performs excellently with traditional sand.

Signs Media Needs Replacing:

• Poor water clarity despite correct chemical balance
• Short filter cycles between backwashes
• Cloudy water returning to pool during filtration
• Media visible in pool (indicates lateral damage)
• Increased chemical consumption
• Filter channelling (water bypassing media)

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🔬 Filtration Performance

Metric	Value
Filter Area	0.31 m²
Filtration Rating (Sand)	20-40 microns
Filtration Rating (AFM)	1-5 microns

Micron Rating Guide:

Rating	What It Catches
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
1-5 microns	Ultra-fine particles, bacteria, all algae

Superior Filtration Design:

The HFS-15’s taller filter bed provides almost 50% more contact time compared to standard filters. This extended contact time allows for:

✅ Better flocculation of fine particles
✅ More thorough removal of suspended solids
✅ Improved water clarity
✅ Reduced chemical requirements
✅ Longer intervals between backwashes

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⚙️ Valve Positions & Functions

The HFS-15 accepts a 6-way multiport valve (sold separately) with the following functions:

Position	Function
Filter	Normal filtration – water passes through media and returns to pool
Backwash	Reverse flow cleans media – dirty water flows to waste
Rinse	Settles media after backwash – run for 30-60 seconds
Waste	Bypass filter – water goes directly to drain (for vacuuming debris)
Recirculate	Bypass filter – water returns to pool (for chemical distribution)
Closed	Stops all water flow through valve

💡 Tip: The Besgo backwash valve fits as standard on this filter. Coupling set required and sold separately.

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🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Pool Size	Suitability
🏠 Residential above-ground	Up to 60,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏠 Residential in-ground	Up to 74,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏡 Holiday home pools	Up to 60,000 L	✅ Very Good
🧖 Swim spas	Up to 15,000 L	✅ Excellent (oversized for reliability)

Best Suited For:

• Medium to large residential pools requiring professional-grade filtration
• Pool owners seeking superior water clarity with minimal maintenance
• Installations where space allows for a taller filter unit
• Pools where AFM media upgrade is planned for enhanced performance
• Retrofit applications replacing similar-sized filters

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size pool will this filter handle?

A: The HFS-15 is suitable for pools up to 74,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover, or up to 56,000 litres for optimal 6-hour turnover. At 9.3 m³/h normal filtration flow rate, it provides excellent performance for medium to large residential pools.

Q: How often do I need to backwash?

A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.5-1 bar above your clean baseline reading. This is typically every 1-2 weeks during swimming season, but varies based on pool usage, debris load, and environmental factors.

Q: What filter media should I use?

A: The HFS-15 is compatible with traditional sand/gravel (10 kg sand + 2 kg gravel) or AFM activated filter media (12 × 21 kg bags). The filter includes a special AFM diffusor designed for optimal AFM performance, making it an excellent choice for upgraded filtration down to 1 micron.

Q: How long does filter media last?

A: Sand typically lasts 5-7 years before losing efficiency. Glass media and AFM can last 10-15 years. Regular backwashing and proper maintenance extend media life.

Q: What pump do I need?

A: Match with a pump delivering 6-10 m³/h for optimal filtration. The pump should not exceed the filter’s maximum flow rate of 15.5 m³/h. Lower flow rates within the recommended range provide finer filtration.

Q: What warranty is included?

A: The HFS-15 comes with a 5-year tank warranty from Calplas. Contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and conditions.

Q: Can I use this filter with salt water pools?

A: Yes, the GRP construction is resistant to salt water corrosion. Ensure all connected valves and fittings are also salt-water compatible.

Q: What’s the difference between HFS and FA series filters?

A: The HFS series is significantly taller than the FA series, containing almost 50% more filter medium. This provides extended contact time for better filtration and flocculation. The HFS-15 and larger models also feature a larger transparent lid and approximately 20% more media capacity than smaller models.

Q: Is the valve included?

A: No, the 6-way multiport valve is sold separately. The filter accepts exclusive Calplas 6-way valves (automatic or manual) and the Besgo backwash valve fits as standard. Coupling set required separately.

Q: What pressure should I operate at?

A: Operating pressure varies by installation. Note your clean filter baseline pressure after backwashing and monitor for increases. Maximum operating pressure is 2.5 bar – never exceed this limit.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 Calplas HFS Filter Specifications (PDF) – Complete technical specifications and dimensions for the HFS filter range

🏆 Why Choose the Calplas HFS-15

✅ Superior Filtration Performance – 50% more filter medium than standard filters provides extended contact time for crystal-clear water

✅ Industrial-Grade Construction – Hand-laid GRP with internal steel reinforcement built to EN 13121-3 standards for exceptional durability

✅ Versatile Media Compatibility – Works brilliantly with sand or advanced AFM media for filtration down to 1 micron

✅ Large Transparent Lid – 305mm inspection port makes maintenance and media checks simple

✅ Proven Spanish Engineering – Manufactured by Calplas, specialists in pool and water treatment filtration since establishment

✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Comprehensive coverage provides long-term peace of mind

✅ Perfect Size Balance – Ideal capacity for medium to large residential pools without oversizing

✅ Low Maintenance Design – Efficient backwashing and robust construction minimise upkeep requirements

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Company – Local support from our team of pool and spa specialists

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick dispatch to get your pool equipment when you need it

✅ Expert Advice – Technical guidance on sizing, installation, and maintenance from experienced professionals

✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on quality pool equipment

✅ Full Warranty Support – We handle warranty claims directly with manufacturers

✅ Easy Returns – 30-day returns policy for peace of mind

✅ Compatible Parts Available – Filter media, valves, spare parts, and accessories all in one place

✅ Established Retailer – Trusted supplier of pool, hot tub, and spa equipment

✨ Summary

The Calplas HFS-15 640mm Side Mount Sand Filter delivers professional-grade filtration performance for pools up to 74,000 litres. Featuring robust hand-laid GRP construction with internal steel reinforcement, this Spanish-engineered filter contains 50% more media than standard filters for superior water clarity. With a 9.3 m³/h flow rate, 0.31 m² filter area, and compatibility with both traditional sand and advanced AFM media (filtration down to 1 micron), the HFS-15 represents outstanding value backed by a 5-year tank warranty. Includes pressure gauge, air vent, and large 305mm transparent lid as standard.

Order today and experience crystal-clear pool water with minimal maintenance.