🌊 Lacron 20″ Sureflow LSR Side Mount Sand Filter c/w 1.5″ MPV – 60,000 Litre Pool Capacity
Powerful British-engineered filtration for sparkling clean pool water, season after season
💧 Product Overview
The Lacron 20″ Sureflow LSR Side Mount Sand Filter represents the pinnacle of British pool filtration engineering, manufactured by Waterco to deliver exceptional water clarity for medium to large residential swimming pools. This professional-grade sand filter features a robust glass reinforced polyester (GRP) tank that combines exceptional durability with outstanding filtration performance.
Designed for permanent in-ground residential swimming pools, the LSR-20 handles pools up to 60,000 litres with its impressive 10 m³/hr maximum flow rate. The side-mount configuration offers excellent accessibility for maintenance and servicing, whilst the included 1.5″ six-position multiport valve provides complete control over all filtration operations. Built to withstand the demands of UK pool ownership, this filter is rigorously pressure tested to 4 bar and features comprehensive UV and corrosion resistance for years of trouble-free operation.
✨ Key Features
✅ Glass Reinforced Polyester Construction – Extremely hard-wearing GRP tank provides exceptional strength and longevity with complete corrosion resistance
✅ 10 m³/hr Maximum Flow Rate – Handles pools up to 60,000 litres with efficient water turnover for crystal-clear results
✅ Six-Position Multiport Valve Included – Complete 1.5″ (50mm) MPV for filter, backwash, rinse, waste, recirculate, and closed operations
✅ Side Mount Configuration – Convenient lateral placement ensures easy access for maintenance, servicing, and winterisation
✅ Large 204mm Clear Lid – 8-inch transparent inspection lid allows visual monitoring of filter bed condition and backwash effectiveness
✅ Hydraulically Balanced Laterals – Advanced underdrain system maximises water flow and filtration efficiency across the entire filter bed
✅ Inflow Diffuser System – Ensures even distribution of water across the filter media for consistent filtration performance
✅ Integrated Pressure Gauge – Monitor filter condition and know precisely when backwashing is required
✅ Quick Connect Unions – Simple barrel union connections for straightforward installation and future servicing
✅ Winter Drain Plug – Dedicated drainage point for proper winterisation in UK climate conditions
✅ UV and Corrosion Resistant – Built to withstand outdoor UK conditions year after year
✅ 5-Year Tank Warranty – Comprehensive 5 (1+4) year warranty on tank demonstrates manufacturer confidence
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | High-Rate Sand Filter |
| Model | LSR-20 / 222020-KIT |
| Pool Capacity | Up to 60,000 litres (60 m³) |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 10 m³/hr |
| Filter Area | 0.20 m² |
| Filtration Rating | 20-40 microns (with sand media) |
| Tank Diameter | 500 mm (20″) |
| Overall Height | 900 mm |
| Bed Depth | 365 mm |
| Clear Lid Diameter | 204 mm (8″) |
| Sand Media Capacity | 100 kg |
| Glass Media Capacity | 80 kg |
| Test Pressure | 4 bar |
| Maximum Working Pressure | 2.5 bar |
| Inlet/Outlet Size | 1.5″ (50 mm) BSP |
| Valve Type | 6-Position Multiport (included) |
| Tank Material | Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) |
| Mount Type | Side Mount |
| Temperature Range | 0°C to 50°C |
| Tank Warranty | 5 years (1+4) |
| Components Warranty | 1 year |
📏 Pool Sizing Guide
Sizing Principle: The filter flow rate should turn over the entire pool volume within 6-8 hours for optimal water quality and clarity.
Formula:
Required Flow Rate (m³/hr) = Pool Volume (m³) ÷ Turnover Time (hours)
Pool Size Compatibility:
| Pool Type | Volume Range | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| 🏊 Small above-ground | Up to 20,000 L | ✅ Excellent – ample capacity with headroom |
| 🏊 Medium above-ground | 20,000-40,000 L | ✅ Excellent – ideal match for this range |
| 🏊 Large above-ground | 40,000-60,000 L | ✅ Good – at upper limit of capacity |
| 🏠 Small in-ground | Up to 40,000 L | ✅ Excellent – perfect for smaller in-ground pools |
| 🏠 Medium in-ground | 40,000-60,000 L | ✅ Good – suitable at maximum capacity |
| 🏠 Large in-ground | 60,000+ L | ⚠️ Consider larger LSR-24 or LSR-30 model |
This Filter:
📍 Flow Rate: 10 m³/hr
📍 Suitable for pools up to: 60,000 litres
📍 Optimal pool size: 30,000-50,000 litres (6-hour turnover)
🛠️ Installation Requirements
Plumbing Connections
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Inlet Connection | 1.5″ (50 mm) BSP |
| Outlet Connection | 1.5″ (50 mm) BSP |
| Valve Position | Side Mount |
| Connection Type | Quick connect barrel unions |
Physical Installation
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Base | Solid, level concrete slab or equivalent firm ground |
| Clearance Above | Sufficient space for lid removal and media inspection |
| Clearance Around | Access for multiport valve operation and winterisation |
| Positioning | As close to pool as practical, protected from flooding |
Pump Compatibility
⚠️ Important: Filter must be matched with an appropriate pump for optimal performance.
- Recommended pump flow rate: 6-10 m³/hr
- Pump must not exceed: 10 m³/hr (filter’s maximum flow rate)
- Ensure: Pump discharge pressure remains below 2.5 bar during operation
💡 Tip: Install isolation valves on inlet and outlet if filter is below water level or connected to mains water supply.
🔄 Maintenance Guide
Routine Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Frequency | How |
|---|---|---|
| Check pressure gauge | Weekly | Note reading and compare to baseline |
| Backwash filter | When pressure rises 0.5 bar above baseline | Run until sight glass clears (2-3 minutes) |
| Rinse after backwash | After each backwash | Run for 10-20 seconds |
| Clean pump strainer | Weekly | Remove and rinse basket |
| Inspect seals and O-rings | Seasonally | Replace if worn or damaged |
| Check media level | Annually | Top up if settled significantly |
| Full media replacement | Every 5-7 years (sand) | Complete media change |
Pressure Gauge Guide
📊 Clean filter baseline: Record initial pressure after first startup
📊 Backwash trigger: When pressure rises 50 kPa (0.5 bar) above baseline
📊 Maximum safe operating pressure: 2.5 bar
Water Chemistry for Optimal Filtration
Maintain correct water balance to protect filter media and extend its lifespan:
| Parameter | Recommended Range |
|---|---|
| pH Level | 7.2 – 7.8 |
| Total Alkalinity | 80 – 150 ppm |
| Calcium Hardness | 150 – 300 ppm |
Winterisation (UK Climate)
Proper winterisation is essential to protect your filter from frost damage:
- Switch off pump and close inlet valve
- Open air release valve on filter or multiport valve
- Move multiport valve handle to winterise position (between Filter and Waste)
- Remove drain plugs from filter
- Drain all water from pipework
- Store drain plugs safely for spring reinstallation
- Cover filter or store in frost-free location if possible
⚠️ Critical: Never leave water in filter during freezing conditions – ice expansion can crack the tank and void warranty.
🪨 Filter Media Information
Compatible Media Types
| Media Type | Filtration Rating | Lifespan | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silica Sand (16-30 grade) | 20-40 microns | 5-7 years | Economical, proven performance, easy maintenance |
| Glass Media (Lacronite) | 5-15 microns | 10+ years | Finer filtration, longer life, reduced backwash frequency |
| ZeoSand | 3-5 microns | 5 years | Superior water clarity, removes chloramines |
Media Capacity
- Sand capacity: 100 kg
- Glass media capacity: 80 kg
- Recommended grade: 16-30 silica sand (0.35mm to 0.55mm particle size)
💡 Note: Pea gravel base layer is not required for this filter model.
Signs Media Needs Replacing
- Poor water clarity despite correct chemical balance
- Short filter cycles requiring frequent backwashing
- Cloudy water returning to pool after backwash
- Visible channelling in filter bed through inspection lid
- Media age exceeds 5-7 years for sand
💎 Filtration Performance
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Filtration Rating | 20-40 microns (sand) / 5-15 microns (glass) |
| Filter Area | 0.20 m² |
| Bed Depth | 365 mm |
| Flow Distribution | Uniform via inflow diffuser |
| Collection System | Hydraulically balanced laterals |
Micron Rating Guide
| Rating | What It Catches |
|---|---|
| 40+ microns | Visible debris, leaves, large particles |
| 20-40 microns | Sand, dirt, visible particles, hair |
| 10-20 microns | Fine particles, some algae spores |
| 5-10 microns | Very fine particles, most algae, improved clarity |
| Under 5 microns | Ultra-fine particles, bacteria, exceptional clarity |
How Depth Filtration Works
The Lacron LSR operates on the principle of “depth filtration” – contaminated water enters through the top inlet and is distributed evenly via the inflow diffuser. As water passes through the media bed, dirt particles become embedded between media grains. Clean water then passes through the hydraulically balanced laterals and returns to the pool via the outlet port.
⚙️ Multiport Valve Positions & Functions
The included 6-position multiport valve provides complete control over all filtration operations:
| Position | Function |
|---|---|
| Filter | Normal filtration mode – water flows through media bed to pool |
| Backwash | Reverses flow to clean media – dirt flushed to waste |
| Rinse | Settles media after backwash – prevents debris returning to pool |
| Waste | Bypasses filter – drains water directly to waste |
| Recirculate | Bypasses filter – returns water to pool unfiltered |
| Closed | Stops all flow – for pump servicing (never use with pump running) |
⚠️ Important: Always switch off pump before changing valve positions to protect the spider gasket and ensure safe operation.
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Pool Size | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Residential above-ground | Up to 60,000 L | ✅ Excellent choice |
| 🏠 Residential in-ground | Up to 60,000 L | ✅ Ideal for medium pools |
| 🏡 Holiday home pools | Up to 50,000 L | ✅ Reliable seasonal use |
| 🏊 Swim spas | Up to 20,000 L | ✅ More than adequate |
| 🌊 Water features | Variable | ✅ Suitable for larger features |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size pool will this filter handle?
A: The Lacron 20″ LSR is suitable for pools up to 60,000 litres. With its 10 m³/hr flow rate, it will turn over a 60,000-litre pool in 6 hours, which is optimal for water quality. For pools larger than 60,000 litres, consider the LSR-24 or LSR-30 models.
Q: How often do I need to backwash?
A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.5 bar (50 kPa / 7.2 psi) above your clean filter baseline, typically every 1-2 weeks during swimming season. Backwash until water in the sight glass runs clear, usually 2-3 minutes, then run the rinse cycle for 10-20 seconds.
Q: What filter media should I use?
A: The filter is compatible with 16-30 grade silica sand (100 kg capacity) or glass media such as Lacronite (80 kg capacity). Sand offers economical performance whilst glass media provides finer filtration and longer lifespan.
Q: How long does filter media last?
A: Sand media typically lasts 5-7 years with proper maintenance. Glass media can last 10+ years. Replace when you notice consistently poor water clarity despite correct chemicals and regular backwashing.
Q: What pump do I need?
A: Match with a pump delivering 6-10 m³/hr. The pump flow rate should not exceed the filter’s 10 m³/hr maximum. Ensure pump discharge pressure stays below 2.5 bar. Parts4Tubs can advise on compatible pump options.
Q: Is the multiport valve included?
A: Yes, this kit (222020-KIT) includes the complete 1.5″ six-position multiport valve with pressure gauge and quick-connect barrel unions.
Q: What warranty is included?
A: Waterco provides a 5-year (1+4) warranty on the filter tank and 1-year warranty on all other components, demonstrating confidence in Lacron build quality.
Q: Can I use this filter with saltwater pools?
A: Yes, Lacron filters are constructed from totally corrosion-resistant materials suitable for both freshwater and saltwater conditions.
Q: How do I winterise the filter?
A: Drain all water from the filter and pipework before temperatures drop below freezing. Remove drain plugs, move the multiport valve to the winterise position, and store in a protected location if possible. Full instructions are in the maintenance section above.
Q: What’s the difference between side mount and top mount filters?
A: Side mount filters like this LSR-20 have the valve mounted on the side of the tank, making valve operation and media inspection easier without removing the valve. Top mount filters have the valve on top, which can be more compact but requires valve removal for media access.
📥 Downloads & Resources
📄 Lacron Filter Product Brochure – Complete product specifications and range overview
📄 Lacron Filter Installation & Operation Manual – Comprehensive installation guide and operating instructions
📄 Lacron Filter Technical Details – Technical specifications and parts diagrams
🏆 Why Choose the Lacron 20″ Sureflow LSR
✅ British Engineering Excellence – Designed and manufactured by Waterco to exacting standards for reliable UK pool filtration
✅ Robust GRP Construction – Glass reinforced polyester tank withstands years of demanding use without corrosion
✅ Complete Filtration Package – Includes everything needed: filter tank, multiport valve, pressure gauge, and fittings
✅ Optimal Flow Performance – 10 m³/hr capacity handles pools up to 60,000 litres with efficient turnover
✅ Easy Maintenance Access – Side-mount design and large clear lid make servicing and inspection straightforward
✅ Proven Reliability – Rigorously pressure tested to 4 bar with 5-year tank warranty for peace of mind
✅ Versatile Media Options – Compatible with sand or glass media to suit your filtration preferences and budget
✅ UK Climate Ready – Built-in winter drain and frost-resistant design for year-round UK conditions
🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
✅ UK-Based Company – Local support from pool specialists who understand UK pool ownership
✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick dispatch to get your pool back up and running
✅ Expert Advice – Friendly team available to help with sizing, installation, and compatibility questions
✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Lacron filtration equipment
✅ Full Warranty Support – We stand behind everything we sell with comprehensive after-sales service
✅ Easy Returns – 30-day returns policy for peace of mind
✅ Compatible Parts Available – Filter media, replacement valves, spare parts, and accessories all in stock
⭐ Summary
The Lacron 20″ Sureflow LSR Side Mount Sand Filter delivers professional-grade filtration for residential pools up to 60,000 litres. Featuring robust glass reinforced polyester construction, a 10 m³/hr flow rate, and a complete 1.5″ multiport valve system, this British-engineered filter provides years of reliable, crystal-clear results. The side-mount configuration ensures easy maintenance access, whilst the 5-year tank warranty demonstrates Waterco’s confidence in Lacron quality. Order today from Parts4Tubs for fast UK delivery and expert support.





