💦 Calplas HFS-30 840mm Side Mount Sand Filter – Up to 125,000 Litre Pool Capacity

Powerful filtration technology for sparkling clean water in larger pools

📋 Product Overview

The Calplas HFS-30 is a robust industrial-grade polyester sand filter designed for larger residential pools and commercial applications demanding superior filtration performance. With an impressive 840mm diameter tank constructed from hand-laid glass reinforced polyester (GRP) featuring internal steel reinforcement, this Spanish-manufactured filter delivers exceptional strength, durability, and long-term reliability.

The HFS series is engineered with a significantly taller profile than standard filters, providing almost 50% more filter medium capacity. This extended filter bed depth maximises water contact time, delivering enhanced filtration efficiency and superior flocculation for consistently pristine pool water even under demanding conditions.

As a member of the HFS-15 and above range, the HFS-30 features an extra-large 355mm transparent filter cover and contains approximately 20% more filter medium than smaller models. The integrated special AFM diffusor ensures optimal water distribution across the entire filter bed, eliminating crater formation and channelling for uniform, thorough filtration. Capable of handling pools up to 125,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover, the HFS-30 is the professional choice for substantial residential pools, holiday complexes, and light commercial installations.

🌟 Key Features

✅ Heavy-Duty GRP Construction – Hand-laid glass reinforced polyester tank with internal steel reinforcement, manufactured to EN 13121-3 standards for maximum durability

✅ 50% Greater Media Volume – Taller tank design accommodates almost 50% more filter medium than standard filters for superior performance

✅ Extra-Large 355mm Transparent Lid – Oversized inspection port provides excellent visibility for media monitoring and maintenance

✅ Integrated AFM Diffusor – Specialised water distribution system ensures uniform flow across the filter bed, preventing channelling and dead spots

✅ 2.5 Bar Industrial Pressure Rating – Heavy-duty pressure handling with 3.75 bar test pressure (7 bar versions available on request)

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

✅ Multi-Media Compatibility – Optimised for traditional sand/gravel or advanced AFM activated filter media for filtration down to 1 micron

✅ 40°C Temperature Tolerance – Suitable for heated pools, warm climates, and solar-heated installations

✅ Complete Filter Package – Supplied with pressure gauge, air vent, drain plug, and extra-large transparent lid as standard

✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Comprehensive manufacturer warranty demonstrates confidence in build quality

✅ White Option Available – Alternative colour to complement installation aesthetics

🔩 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Filter Type	Sand / AFM Media Filter
Tank Diameter	840 mm
Overall Height	1,190 mm
Filter Area	0.52 m²
Flow Rate (Normal Filtration)	15.6 m³/h (at 30 m³/h/m²)
Flow Rate (Backwash Capacity)	26 m³/h (at 50 m³/h/m²)
Pool Capacity (6-hr Turnover)	Up to 94,000 litres
Pool Capacity (8-hr Turnover)	Up to 125,000 litres
Sand Capacity	19 kg sand + 4 kg gravel
AFM Media Capacity	10 × 21 kg Grade 1 + 5 × 21 kg Grade 2 + 5 × 21 kg Grade 3
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	355 mm
Distance from Ground	360 mm
Distance Between Connections	190 mm
Tank Material	Hand-laid GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester)
Reinforcement	Internal steel reinforced
Weight (Empty)	60 kg
Valve Type	Side mount (6-way valve optional)
Warranty	5 years (tank)
Product Code	1519250130
Manufacturer	Calplas (Spain)
Manufacturing Standard	EN 13121-3

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📍 Pool Sizing Guide

Sizing Principle: The filter flow rate should achieve complete pool water turnover within 6-8 hours for optimal clarity, hygiene, and chemical efficiency.

Formula:

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

Pool Size Compatibility:

Pool Type	Volume Range	Suitability
🏊 Large above-ground	40,000 – 80,000 L	✅ Excellent – generous capacity
🏠 Medium in-ground	50,000 – 80,000 L	✅ Excellent – oversized for reliability
🏠 Large in-ground	80,000 – 100,000 L	✅ Excellent – optimal performance
🏠 Extra-large residential	100,000 – 125,000 L	✅ Good – within maximum capacity
🏢 Small commercial	Up to 94,000 L	✅ Excellent – ideal for light commercial
🏨 Holiday rental pools	Up to 100,000 L	✅ Excellent – handles high bather loads

This Filter:

📍 Normal Filtration Flow Rate: 15.6 m³/h
📍 Maximum Backwash Flow Rate: 26 m³/h
📍 Recommended Pool Size: Up to 94,000 litres (6-hour turnover)
📍 Maximum Pool Size: Up to 125,000 litres (8-hour turnover)

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⚙️ 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 reinforced concrete pad required
Minimum Height Clearance	900 mm above filter for lid removal
Distance from Ground	360 mm (integrated legs)
Access Clearance	700 mm all around for servicing
Weight Consideration	60 kg empty; ensure adequate base support

Pump Compatibility:

⚠️ Important: Filter must be paired with an appropriately rated pump for optimal performance.

Parameter	Specification
Recommended Pump Flow Rate	10 – 16 m³/h
Maximum Pump Flow Rate	Do not exceed 26 m³/h
Pump Head	Factor in filter pressure drop when sizing

💡 Tip: For finest filtration results, operate towards the lower end of the recommended flow range. Excessive flow rates reduce media contact time and filtration efficiency.

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🛠️ Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance:

Task	Frequency	Procedure
Check pressure gauge	Weekly	Note baseline; monitor for pressure rise
Backwash filter	When pressure rises 0.5-1 bar	Run until sight glass clears (3-4 minutes)
Rinse after backwash	After every backwash	Run 45-60 seconds to resettle media
Inspect transparent lid	Monthly	Check for cracks, seal integrity, discolouration
Check O-rings and seals	Seasonally	Replace if worn, hardened, or leaking
Inspect media level	Annually	Top up if significantly settled
Full media replacement	5-7 years (sand) / 10-15 years (AFM)	Complete media change

Pressure Gauge Guide:

📊 Clean filter baseline: Record pressure immediately after backwash
📊 Backwash trigger: 0.5-1 bar above baseline reading
📊 Maximum operating pressure: 2.5 bar – never exceed

Winterisation (UK Climate):

❄️ Critical winter protection steps:

1. Turn off pump and isolate electrical supply
2. Close all inlet and outlet valves
3. Set multiport valve to “Winterise” or position between settings
4. Completely drain filter tank via drain plug
5. Remove drain plug and store in a safe, dry location
6. Leave air vent open to prevent vacuum or pressure build-up
7. Cover filter or move to frost-free storage where possible
8. Never allow water to remain in filter during freezing conditions

⚠️ Important: Frost damage from residual water is excluded from warranty coverage. Ensure thorough drainage before winter temperatures arrive.

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🪨 Filter Media Information

Compatible Media Types:

Media Type	Filtration Rating	Lifespan	Key Benefits
Silica Sand	20-40 microns	5-7 years	Economical, reliable, easy to source
Glass Media	10-15 microns	10+ years	Finer filtration, lighter, sustainable
AFM (Activated Filter Media)	1-5 microns	10-15 years	Exceptional clarity, self-sterilising, reduced chemicals
ZeoSand	3-5 microns	5 years	Superior clarity, natural ammonia removal

Media Capacity for HFS-30:

Media Type	Quantity Required
Sand + Gravel	19 kg sand (0.4-0.8 mm) + 4 kg gravel (2-4 mm)
AFM Media	10 × 21 kg Grade 1 + 5 × 21 kg Grade 2 + 5 × 21 kg Grade 3 (420 kg total)

💡 Recommendation: The HFS-30 includes a special AFM diffusor engineered for optimal AFM media performance. Upgrading to AFM provides filtration down to 1 micron, self-sterilising properties, and a 10-15 year media lifespan.

Signs Media Requires Replacement:

• Persistent water cloudiness despite correct chemical balance
• Rapid pressure rise between backwash cycles
• Cloudy water returning during normal filtration
• Filter media particles appearing in pool
• Elevated sanitiser consumption
• Visible channelling or uneven media bed

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✨ Filtration Performance

Metric	Value
Filter Area	0.52 m²
Filtration Rating (Sand)	20-40 microns
Filtration Rating (AFM)	1-5 microns

Micron Rating Guide:

Rating	Particle Types Removed
40+ microns	Leaves, insects, visible debris
20-40 microns	Sand, grit, visible suspended particles
10-20 microns	Fine particles, some algae spores
5-10 microns	Very fine matter, most algae types
1-5 microns	Ultra-fine particles, bacteria, all algae

Enhanced Filtration Design:

The HFS-30’s extended filter bed height delivers almost 50% more media contact time compared to standard filters. Performance advantages include:

✅ Superior flocculation and particle capture
✅ Enhanced removal of fine suspended solids
✅ Exceptional water clarity and sparkle
✅ Reduced chemical consumption and costs
✅ Extended intervals between backwash cycles
✅ Consistent performance under high bather loads

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🔧 Valve Positions & Functions

The HFS-30 accepts a 6-way multiport valve (sold separately) with these functions:

Position	Function
Filter	Normal operation – water flows through media and returns to pool
Backwash	Reversed flow flushes debris from media to waste
Rinse	Resettles media and clears lines after backwashing
Waste	Bypasses filter – water drains directly (for heavy debris vacuuming)
Recirculate	Bypasses filter – water returns to pool (for chemical distribution)
Closed	Stops all water flow through valve

💡 Note: Besgo backwash valve fits as standard on the HFS-30. Coupling set sold separately. Exclusive Calplas 6-way valves available in automatic or manual configurations.

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🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Pool Size	Suitability
🏠 Large residential in-ground	Up to 125,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏠 Luxury estate pools	80,000 – 120,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏡 Holiday rental properties	Up to 100,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏨 Small hotel/B&B pools	Up to 94,000 L	✅ Excellent
🏢 Communal/apartment pools	Up to 94,000 L	✅ Good
🏊 Sports/training pools	Up to 100,000 L	✅ Good

Best Suited For:

• Larger residential pools requiring professional-grade filtration capacity
• Properties with high bather loads or extended swimming seasons
• Installations demanding exceptional water clarity
• Pools where AFM media upgrade is planned for superior performance
• Replacement of ageing commercial-grade filters
• New builds requiring reliable, long-term filtration solutions

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size pool will this filter handle?

A: The HFS-30 is suitable for pools up to 125,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover, or up to 94,000 litres for optimal 6-hour turnover. With a 15.6 m³/h flow rate and 0.52 m² filter area, it’s ideal for larger residential and light commercial pools.

Q: How often should I backwash?

A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.5-1 bar above your clean baseline. During peak swimming season, this is typically every 1-2 weeks, varying with usage, debris levels, and environmental factors.

Q: What filter media should I use?

A: The HFS-30 accommodates 19 kg sand plus 4 kg gravel, or AFM media totalling 420 kg (10 bags Grade 1 + 5 bags Grade 2 + 5 bags Grade 3). The integrated AFM diffusor makes this filter ideal for AFM upgrades, achieving filtration down to 1 micron.

Q: How long does filter media last?

A: Sand typically requires replacement every 5-7 years. Glass media and AFM last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. Regular backwashing and balanced water chemistry maximise media lifespan.

Q: What pump do I need?

A: Select a pump delivering 10-16 m³/h for optimal performance. Never exceed the filter’s maximum flow rate of 26 m³/h. Lower flow rates within the recommended range deliver finer filtration.

Q: What warranty is included?

A: The HFS-30 includes a 5-year tank warranty from Calplas. Contact Parts4Tubs for complete warranty terms and conditions.

Q: Is this suitable for saltwater pools?

A: Yes, the GRP construction offers excellent saltwater corrosion resistance. Ensure all connected equipment (valves, fittings, pumps) is also saltwater compatible.

Q: What’s the difference between HFS-20 and HFS-30?

A: The HFS-30 has a larger 840mm tank diameter (vs 720mm), greater filter area of 0.52 m² (vs 0.39 m²), higher flow rate of 15.6 m³/h (vs 11.7 m³/h), and handles pools up to 125,000L (vs 94,000L). It also features a larger 355mm lid (vs 305mm).

Q: Is the multiport valve included?

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

Q: Can this be used for commercial pools?

A: The HFS-30 is suitable for light commercial applications such as small hotel pools, B&Bs, and communal pools up to 94,000 litres (6-hour turnover). Larger commercial installations may require multiple filters or the HFS-35.

📄 Downloads & Resources

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

👍 Why Choose the Calplas HFS-30

✅ High-Capacity Filtration – 0.52 m² filter area with 15.6 m³/h flow rate handles pools up to 125,000 litres

✅ 50% More Filter Medium – Extended filter bed provides maximum contact time for exceptional water clarity

✅ Industrial-Grade Construction – Hand-laid GRP with steel reinforcement manufactured to EN 13121-3 standards

✅ Extra-Large 355mm Lid – Superior access for inspection and maintenance

✅ Versatile Media Options – Optimised for sand or AFM media with integrated diffusor for 1-micron filtration capability

✅ Professional Performance – Suitable for demanding residential and light commercial applications

✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Comprehensive manufacturer coverage for long-term confidence

✅ Proven Spanish Engineering – Manufactured by Calplas, specialists in professional pool filtration

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Company – Local expertise and dedicated support from pool specialists

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Prompt dispatch to keep your project on schedule

✅ Expert Technical Advice – Professional guidance on sizing, installation, and maintenance

✅ Competitive Pricing – Outstanding value on quality pool equipment

✅ Full Warranty Support – Direct manufacturer warranty handling

✅ Easy Returns – 30-day returns policy for complete confidence

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

✅ Trusted Supplier – Established retailer of pool, hot tub, and spa equipment

🌊 Summary

The Calplas HFS-30 840mm Side Mount Sand Filter delivers professional-grade filtration for pools up to 125,000 litres. Featuring robust hand-laid GRP construction with internal steel reinforcement to EN 13121-3 standards, this Spanish-engineered filter provides 50% more media capacity than standard filters for outstanding water clarity. With a 15.6 m³/h flow rate, 0.52 m² filter area, extra-large 355mm transparent lid, and optimisation for both sand and AFM media (filtration down to 1 micron), the HFS-30 is the ideal choice for larger residential pools and light commercial applications. Supplied complete with pressure gauge, air vent, and backed by a 5-year tank warranty.

Order today for crystal-clear pool water with professional-grade performance.