🌊 Hayward ProSeries HB Top Mount Sand Filter 16″ (401mm) – Up to 48,000 Litre Pool Capacity

Effortless pool maintenance with professional-grade filtration technology

💧 Product Overview

The Hayward ProSeries HB S166TXE is a compact yet powerful 16-inch top-mount sand filter engineered for reliable residential pool filtration. This European-specification model combines Hayward’s proven filtration technology with space-efficient design, delivering crystal-clear water for pools up to 48,000 litres.

Constructed from durable blown polyethylene that meets NSF manufacturing standards, the ProSeries HB tank resists corrosion, chemicals, and harsh weather conditions whilst maintaining structural integrity under pressure. The top-mount valve configuration provides convenient access for routine maintenance and operation, making this filter ideal for installations where space is limited.

The 6 m³/h maximum flow rate ensures efficient water turnover for small to medium-sized pools, above-ground installations, and dedicated water features. With its saltwater-compatible construction and 5-year tank warranty, the S166TXE represents exceptional long-term value for pool owners seeking dependable filtration performance.

⭐ Key Features

✅ 16-Inch Top-Mount Design – Compact 401mm diameter tank with convenient top-access valve for easy maintenance and space-efficient installation

✅ 6 m³/h Maximum Flow Rate – Efficient water circulation suitable for pools up to 48,000 litres with 8-hour turnover capability

✅ 40-50 Micron Filtration – Captures fine particles, debris, and suspended matter for noticeably clearer pool water

✅ Blown Polyethylene Tank – NSF-standard construction provides exceptional pressure resistance up to 3.5 bar and all-weather durability

✅ Saltwater Compatible – Tank material engineered to withstand saltwater chlorination systems without degradation

✅ Vari-Flo™ 6-Position Valve – Easy-to-use multiport control valve with Filter, Backwash, Rinse, Waste, Recirculate, and Closed functions

✅ Swivel-Mounted Laterals – Self-cleaning umbrella-fold design ensures balanced water distribution and thorough backwashing

✅ Quick-Access Sand Chamber – Removable collar allows easy media inspection and replacement without valve removal

✅ Integrated Drain System – Drain plug doubles as a dismantling tool for simplified winterisation and servicing

✅ Chemical Resistant Construction – High resistance to treatment products including chlorine, bromine, and pH adjusters

✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Extended manufacturer coverage demonstrates confidence in build quality and durability

✅ 2-Year Equipment Warranty – Comprehensive protection for valve and internal components

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Model Number	S166TXE
Filter Type	High-Rate Sand Filter
Mount Configuration	Top Mount
Tank Diameter	401 mm (16 inches)
Total Height (with valve)	858 mm
Tank Height	598 mm
Maximum Flow Rate	6 m³/h
Filtration Area	0.12 m²
Filtration Rating	40-50 microns (with sand media)
Sand Capacity	50 kg
Sand Grade Required	0.4-0.8 mm
Inlet/Outlet Size	1½ inch (38 mm)
Operating Pressure	0.5 – 1.3 bar
Maximum Pressure	3.5 bar
Maximum Water Temperature	40°C
Weight (Empty)	12 kg
Weight (Filled with Sand)	Approximately 62 kg
Tank Material	Blown Polyethylene
Saltwater Compatible	Yes
Valve Type	Vari-Flo™ 6-Position Multiport
Pressure Gauge	Included
Manufacturing Standard	NSF
Tank Warranty	5 Years
Equipment Warranty	2 Years

📐 Pool Sizing Guide

The Hayward ProSeries HB S166TXE is designed to provide efficient filtration based on pool volume and desired turnover time. For optimal water clarity and hygiene, pool water should complete at least one full circulation through the filter every 6-8 hours.

Sizing Calculation:

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

Pool Size Compatibility

Pool Type	Volume Range	Suitability	Notes
🏊 Small Above-Ground	Up to 20,000 L	✅ Excellent	Ideal choice – allows 3+ turnovers daily
🏊 Medium Above-Ground	20,000-36,000 L	✅ Very Good	Achieves optimal 6-hour turnover
🏊 Large Above-Ground	36,000-48,000 L	✅ Good	Achieves 8-hour turnover at maximum
🏠 Small In-Ground	Up to 36,000 L	✅ Very Good	Suitable for compact residential pools
🏠 Medium In-Ground	36,000-48,000 L	✅ Adequate	Maximum capacity – 8-hour turnover
💧 Water Features	Variable	✅ Excellent	Perfect for fountains and decorative features

This Filter’s Performance:

📍 Maximum Flow Rate: 6 m³/h (6,000 litres per hour)

📍 Optimal Pool Size: Up to 36,000 litres (6-hour turnover)

📍 Maximum Pool Size: Up to 48,000 litres (8-hour turnover)

💡 Sizing Tip: For heavily used pools or those in areas with high debris levels, choose a filter rated for pools larger than your actual volume to ensure superior water quality.

🛠️ Installation Requirements

Plumbing Connections

Requirement	Specification
Inlet Connection	1½ inch (38 mm)
Outlet Connection	1½ inch (38 mm)
Valve Position	Top Mount
Connection Type	Threaded

Physical Installation

Requirement	Details
Base	Solid, level concrete slab or equivalent firm surface
Clearance Above	Minimum 650 mm for valve operation and sand access
Clearance Around	460 mm (18 inches) recommended for maintenance access
Maximum Height Above Water Level	1.8 metres (6 feet) above pool water level
Location	Can be installed outdoors – weather resistant construction

Pump Compatibility

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

Parameter	Requirement
Recommended Pump Flow Rate	4-6 m³/h
Maximum Pump Flow Rate	Do not exceed 6 m³/h
Minimum Pump Flow Rate	3 m³/h for effective backwashing

💡 Installation Note: Position the filter so that the valve, pressure gauge, and drain plug remain accessible for routine operation and winterisation. The Vari-Flo valve can be rotated 360° before final tightening to optimise plumbing alignment.

🔄 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance Schedule

Task	Frequency	Procedure
Check Pressure Gauge	Weekly	Monitor for pressure increase above baseline
Backwash Filter	When pressure rises 0.55-0.69 bar above clean baseline	Run until sight glass shows clear water (approximately 2 minutes)
Rinse After Backwash	After each backwash	Run for 30-60 seconds to settle media
Clean Pump Strainer	Weekly	Remove debris to maintain flow
Inspect O-Rings & Seals	Seasonally	Check for wear and replace if necessary
Check Media Level	Annually	Top up if settlement has occurred
Full Media Replacement	Every 5-7 years (sand)	Replace entire sand charge

Pressure Gauge Guide

📊 Clean Filter Baseline: Note the pressure reading when the filter is freshly backwashed – this is your reference point

📊 Backwash Trigger: When pressure rises 0.55-0.69 bar (8-10 PSI) above your baseline reading

📊 Maximum Safe Operating Pressure: 3.5 bar – never exceed this level

⚠️ Important: Always turn off the pump before changing valve positions to prevent damage to the valve seal and plumbing system.

Winterisation (UK Climate)

Proper winterisation is essential to prevent frost damage during cold weather:

1. Drain Tank Completely – Unscrew the drain cap at the base of the filter tank and allow all water to drain
2. Leave Drain Cap Off – Store the cap safely but leave the drain open throughout winter
3. Set Valve to Neutral – Position the Vari-Flo valve handle between any two positions to allow residual water to drain from the valve
4. Drain Connected Pump – Follow pump manufacturer’s winterisation instructions
5. Consider Covering – A weatherproof cover provides additional protection, though the tank is weather-resistant

⚠️ Warning: Never leave water standing in the filter during freezing conditions. Ice expansion can crack the tank and damage internal components.

🪨 Filter Media Information

Compatible Media Types

Media Type	Filtration Performance	Typical Lifespan	Key Benefits
Silica Sand	40-50 microns	5-7 years	Most economical option, proven performance
Glass Media	5-15 microns	10+ years	Superior clarity, reduced backwashing, eco-friendly
ZeoSand/Zeolite	3-5 microns	5 years	Finest filtration, ammonia reduction properties

Media Specifications for S166TXE

Parameter	Requirement
Sand Capacity	50 kg
Recommended Sand Grade	0.4-0.8 mm (also known as #20 silica pool sand)
Alternative Media	Glass media or ZeoSand at equivalent weight
Minimum Headspace	Maintain 250 mm (10 inches) minimum from top of sand to tank opening

Signs Media Needs Replacing

• Pool water remains cloudy despite correct chemical balance
• Backwash cycles becoming increasingly frequent
• Pressure rises quickly after backwashing
• Sand particles visible in pool returns
• Media has been in service for 5+ years (sand) or 10+ years (glass)

💡 Glass Media Upgrade: Converting from sand to glass media can improve filtration to 5-15 microns, reduce backwash frequency by up to 50%, and provide a longer service life. Use the same 50 kg capacity when switching media types.

---

🔬 Filtration Performance

Performance Metric	Value
Standard Filtration Rating	40-50 microns (with sand media)
Enhanced Filtration Rating	5-15 microns (with glass media)
Effective Filtration Area	0.12 m²
Maximum Flow Rate	6 m³/h

Micron Rating Comparison Guide

Rating	What It Captures	Visibility
100+ microns	Large debris, leaves, insects	Easily visible
40-50 microns	Fine sand, dirt particles, visible debris	Barely visible
20-40 microns	Very fine particles, some algae spores	Microscopic
10-20 microns	Fine particles, most algae	Not visible
5-10 microns	Ultrafine particles, bacteria	Not visible

Performance Optimisation Tips

• Maintain consistent pump operation for a minimum of one complete pool turnover daily
• Backwash promptly when pressure rises to prevent media channelling
• Keep water chemistry balanced to prevent algae growth that taxes the filter
• Consider glass media upgrade for noticeably improved water clarity

---

⚙️ Valve Positions & Functions

The Hayward Vari-Flo™ 6-position multiport valve provides complete control over your filtration system:

Position	Function	When to Use
Filter	Normal filtration mode – water flows through sand bed and returns clean to pool	Daily operation and routine vacuuming
Backwash	Reverses water flow to flush trapped debris from sand to waste	When pressure gauge rises 0.55-0.69 bar above clean baseline
Rinse	Flushes remaining debris to waste and settles sand bed	Always use for 30-60 seconds after backwashing
Waste	Bypasses filter – sends water directly to waste	Lowering water level, vacuuming heavy debris, draining pool
Recirculate	Bypasses filter – returns water to pool unfiltered	Distributing chemicals, troubleshooting
Closed	Stops all water flow through valve	System shutdown, pump maintenance

⚠️ Critical Safety Rule: Always switch off the pump before changing valve positions. Operating the valve under pressure can damage the internal seal and void warranty coverage.

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Pool Volume	Suitability
🏠 Residential Above-Ground Pools	Up to 48,000 L	✅ Excellent – primary intended use
🏠 Residential Small In-Ground Pools	Up to 36,000 L	✅ Very Good
🏡 Holiday Home/Second Property Pools	Up to 40,000 L	✅ Excellent – reliable low-maintenance operation
💧 Garden Water Features	Variable	✅ Excellent – compact footprint ideal for decorative installations
🏊 Swim Spas	Up to 10,000 L	✅ Very Good – oversized for superior clarity
🧖 Large Hot Tubs (Commercial)	Up to 5,000 L	✅ Good – provides substantial filtration reserve

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size pool will this filter handle?

A: The Hayward ProSeries HB S166TXE is suitable for pools up to 48,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover time, or up to 36,000 litres for optimal 6-hour turnover. The 6 m³/h flow rate provides efficient filtration for most residential above-ground and smaller in-ground pools.

Q: How often do I need to backwash?

A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.55-0.69 bar (8-10 PSI) higher than your clean baseline reading. This typically occurs every 1-2 weeks during normal use, though frequency varies based on pool usage, debris levels, and bather load.

Q: What filter media should I use?

A: The S166TXE is designed for 50 kg of 0.4-0.8 mm grade silica sand (standard #20 pool sand). For enhanced filtration, you can substitute glass media or ZeoSand at the same capacity. Glass media offers finer filtration (5-15 microns versus 40-50 microns with sand) and longer service life.

Q: How long does the filter sand last?

A: Standard silica sand typically lasts 5-7 years with proper maintenance. Glass media can last 10+ years. Replace media if water clarity declines despite correct chemical balance, or if backwash cycles become increasingly frequent.

Q: What pump do I need with this filter?

A: Pair with a pump delivering 4-6 m³/h. The pump flow rate should never exceed the filter’s 6 m³/h maximum. An undersized pump (below 3 m³/h) will result in ineffective backwashing and poor filtration.

Q: Is this filter suitable for saltwater pools?

A: Yes, the blown polyethylene tank is specifically designed to withstand saltwater chlorination systems without degradation or corrosion.

Q: Can I install this filter outdoors?

A: Yes, the ProSeries HB features weather-resistant construction suitable for outdoor installation. However, proper winterisation is essential in the UK climate to prevent frost damage.

Q: What warranty is included?

A: The S166TXE comes with a 5-year warranty on the tank and 2-year warranty on equipment (valve and internal components). Contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and registration.

Q: How much clearance do I need above the filter?

A: Allow minimum 650 mm clearance above the filter for valve operation and sand access. Side clearance of 460 mm (18 inches) is recommended for maintenance access.

Q: Can I use this filter for my hot tub?

A: While technically capable, this filter is oversized for most domestic hot tubs (typically 1,000-2,000 litres). It would be suitable for large commercial hot tubs or swim spas up to 10,000 litres where the additional filtration capacity provides superior water quality.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 Hayward ProSeries HB Technical Brochure – Complete specifications, dimensions, and product information

🏆 Why Choose the Hayward ProSeries HB S166TXE

✅ Proven Filtration Technology – Hayward’s engineering expertise delivers consistent 40-50 micron filtration for crystal-clear pool water

✅ Premium Build Quality – NSF-standard blown polyethylene construction withstands 3.5 bar pressure with exceptional chemical and weather resistance

✅ Space-Efficient Design – Compact 401mm diameter footprint fits easily in equipment rooms or tight installations

✅ Effortless Maintenance – Top-mount configuration and quick-access sand chamber simplify routine servicing

✅ Long-Term Value – 5-year tank warranty and durable construction minimise replacement costs

✅ Versatile Performance – Suitable for pools up to 48,000 litres, water features, and commercial hot tub applications

✅ Saltwater Ready – Compatible with salt chlorination systems without modification or additional protection

🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Company – Local support from Northamptonshire-based team who understand UK pool and spa requirements

✅ Expert Technical Advice – Speak directly with knowledgeable staff for sizing guidance and compatibility questions

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Prompt dispatch to get your equipment installed quickly

✅ Competitive Pricing – Trade-level pricing available to all customers

✅ Full Warranty Support – We honour all manufacturer warranties and provide after-sales assistance

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

✅ Compatible Products Available – Filter media, spare parts, pumps, and chemicals all available from one supplier

✨ Summary

The Hayward ProSeries HB S166TXE is a compact, reliable top-mount sand filter delivering professional-grade filtration for residential pools up to 48,000 litres. With its 6 m³/h flow rate, NSF-standard blown polyethylene construction, and convenient Vari-Flo™ 6-position valve, this filter provides the ideal combination of performance, durability, and ease of maintenance. The 5-year tank warranty and saltwater compatibility make it an excellent long-term investment for pool owners seeking dependable water clarity.

Order today for fast UK delivery from Parts4Tubs.