🌊 Pentair Azur 22″ Sand Filter with FreeFlo 0.75hp Pump Pack – 48,000 Litre Capacity
Powerful filtration for larger pools, engineered for crystal-clear water and effortless maintenance
🏊 Product Overview
The Pentair Azur 22″ Sand Filter with FreeFlo 0.75hp Pump Pack delivers high-capacity, professional-grade filtration for larger above-ground and in-ground swimming pools up to 48,000 litres. As the flagship model in the Azur range, this complete system pairs Pentair’s largest residential blow-moulded filter with their robust FreeFlo FFL-071 pump, providing exceptional water clarity and circulation for demanding pool environments.
Manufactured using Pentair’s advanced blow-moulding process, the 22″ Azur filter features a one-piece, extra-thick non-corrosive polyethylene tank with an impressive 0.25 m² filter area—more than double the surface area of the 15″ model. This significantly larger filtration capacity means longer cycles between backwashing, superior debris capture, and consistently clearer water. The integrated FreeFlo FFL-071 pump delivers reliable water circulation with an 11 m³/h maximum capacity, self-priming design, built-in thermal protection, and a large strainer basket for reduced maintenance intervals.
Pre-mounted on a unified base plate with 50mm swivel union connections, this system offers straightforward installation for both DIY enthusiasts and professional installers. With the premium Praher 6-way multiport valve, comprehensive warranty coverage, and Pentair’s 40+ years of pool equipment expertise, this filter pack represents the ideal solution for pool owners seeking maximum filtration performance without commercial-grade complexity.
⭐ Key Features
✅ High-Capacity 0.25 m² Filter Area – The largest Azur filter provides maximum debris capture and extended cycles between backwashing
✅ Complete Plug-and-Play System – Pre-assembled filter and pump on unified base with all hardware included for fast installation
✅ Powerful FreeFlo FFL-071 Pump – 0.75hp (0.55kW) self-priming mono-block design delivers 11 m³/h maximum flow rate
✅ Suitable for Pools up to 48,000 Litres – Achieves recommended 6-8 hour turnover for larger residential pools
✅ One-Piece Blow-Moulded Tank – Extra-thick 560mm diameter polyethylene construction resists corrosion and UV degradation
✅ Praher 6-Way ABS Multiport Valve – Premium valve with filter, backwash, rinse, waste, recirculate, and closed positions
✅ 120kg Sand Capacity – Substantial media bed provides thorough filtration and long service life
✅ Large Self-Aligning Strainer Basket – HDPE construction holds more debris, extending service intervals
✅ 50mm Swivel Union Connections – Quick-connect fittings enable easy installation and winterisation
✅ 90° Rotatable Pump Discharge – Flexible positioning suits any installation configuration
✅ Transparent Cam & Ramp™ Pump Lid – Easy visual inspection of strainer basket without complete disassembly
✅ 1.5m Power Cable with RCD Option – Ready to connect with residual current device available for enhanced safety
✅ Pressure Gauge Fitted – 1/4″ NPT bottom connection gauge monitors filter condition at a glance
✅ Variable Speed Drive Compatible – Pump prepared for VSD connection for future energy-saving upgrades
✅ Saltwater Compatible – All components suitable for saltwater pool environments
✅ Comprehensive Warranty – 5 years on filter vessel, 2 years on pump, 1 year on valve
🔧 Technical Specifications
Complete System Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Sand filter and pump combination pack |
| Suitable For | Above-ground and in-ground pools |
| Pool Capacity | Up to 48,000 litres |
| Design Flow Rate | 11 m³/h |
| Maximum Filter Flow | 12 m³/h |
| Overall Dimensions | 830 x 600 x 1090 mm (L x W x H) |
| Total Weight (Empty) | Approximately 50 kg |
| Inlet/Outlet Connections | 50 mm (1.5″) swivel glue socket unions |
| Power Supply | 230V / 50Hz single phase |
| Cable Length | 1.5 m (with plug) |
| Manufacturer Code | FS-22A6-FF15 |
Filter Specifications (Azur 22″)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Top-mount sand filter |
| Filter Diameter | 560 mm (22″) |
| Filter Area | 0.25 m² |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 12 m³/h |
| Media Capacity (Sand) | 120 kg (0.4-0.8 mm grade) |
| Gravel Bed Required | 20 kg (3-5 mm grade) |
| Tank Material | Extra-thick blow-moulded polyethylene |
| Tank Height | 1069 mm |
| Maximum Working Pressure | 2.0 bar |
| Maximum Working Temperature | 35°C |
| Valve Type | Praher 6-way multiport (ABS) |
| Valve Connection | 1.5″ (50 mm) |
| Drain Port | Large diameter for easy winterisation |
| Filter Empty Weight | Approximately 25 kg |
| Filter Vessel Warranty | 5 years |
| Valve Warranty | 1 year |
Pump Specifications (FreeFlo FFL-071)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Pump Model | FreeFlo FFL-071 |
| Pump Type | Self-priming centrifugal |
| Motor Design | Mono-block integral |
| Power Output | 0.55 kW (0.75 hp) |
| Maximum Pump Capacity | 11 m³/h |
| Motor Speed | 2800 rpm @ 50Hz |
| Motor Type | TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled) |
| Protection Class | IP55 |
| Insulation Class | F |
| Thermal Protection | Built-in automatic cutoff |
| Pump Dimensions | 640 x 230 x 320 mm (L x W x H) |
| Pump Weight | Approximately 8 kg |
| Connection Size | 50 mm |
| Self-Priming | Yes (up to 2m lift) |
| Saltwater Resistant | Yes |
| Variable Speed Drive Ready | Yes |
| Noise Level | >70 dB(A) at 1 metre |
| Pump Warranty | 2 years (in set) |
📦 What’s Included in the Box
This complete filtration pack includes everything needed for installation:
| Item | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Unified Platform Base | 1 | Pre-mounted base plate for filter and pump |
| Azur Blow-Moulded Filter Shell | 1 | 22″ (560mm) polyethylene tank |
| FreeFlo FFL-071 Pump | 1 | 0.75hp single phase with plug |
| 6-Way Multiport Valve | 1 | Praher ABS 1.5″ top-mount |
| Pressure Gauge | 1 | 1/4″ NPT bottom connection |
| Filter Laterals | 6 | Distribution nozzles for sand bed |
| Lateral Hub | 1 | Central manifold for laterals |
| Grey PVC Pipe | 1 | Ø50 x 1.8mm internal standpipe |
| Drain Kit | 1 | Complete with drain plug |
| Sand Guide | 1 | For correct media filling |
| O-Ring | 1 | NBR 70 shore Ø50 x 2.5mm for valve seal |
| Clamp Ring | 1 | Stainless steel hardware for valve mounting |
| Connecting Hose | 1 | Inside diameter 38mm |
| Hose Nozzles | 2 | PVC Ø38 x 1.5″ BSP |
| Hose Clamps | 2 | Stainless steel |
| Hardware Kit | 1 | Screws, nuts, and fasteners |
| Installation Manual | 1 | Multi-language instructions |
⚠️ Not Included: Filter media (sand and gravel) must be purchased separately. This larger filter requires 120kg sand and 20kg gravel—significantly more than smaller models.
📏 Pool Sizing Guide
Proper filter sizing ensures your pool water is fully circulated and cleaned within the recommended 6-8 hour turnover period. The 22″ Azur filter with 0.75hp pump is designed for larger pools requiring substantial filtration capacity.
Sizing Formula:
Required Flow Rate (m³/h) = Pool Volume (m³) ÷ Turnover Time (hours)
Example Calculations:
| Pool Volume | 6-Hour Turnover | 8-Hour Turnover |
|---|---|---|
| 30,000 L (30 m³) | 5.0 m³/h needed | 3.75 m³/h needed |
| 40,000 L (40 m³) | 6.7 m³/h needed | 5.0 m³/h needed |
| 48,000 L (48 m³) | 8.0 m³/h needed | 6.0 m³/h needed |
| 55,000 L (55 m³) | 9.2 m³/h needed | 6.9 m³/h needed |
| 66,000 L (66 m³) | 11.0 m³/h needed | 8.25 m³/h needed |
Pool Size Compatibility:
| Pool Type | Volume Range | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏊 Large above-ground | 35,000-50,000 L | ✅ Excellent | Achieves optimal 6-hour turnover |
| 🏊 Extra-large above-ground | 50,000-66,000 L | ✅ Very good | Achieves 8-hour turnover |
| 🏠 Medium in-ground | 35,000-48,000 L | ✅ Excellent | Superior turnover with headroom |
| 🏠 Large in-ground | 48,000-60,000 L | ✅ Good | Achieves 6-8 hour turnover |
| 🏠 Extra-large in-ground | 60,000-70,000 L | ⚠️ Adequate | Extended run times recommended |
| 🏊 Intex/Bestway XXL | 40,000-55,000 L | ✅ Ideal | Significant upgrade from cartridge |
This Filter Pack:
📍 Design Flow Rate: 11 m³/h
📍 Maximum Filter Flow: 12 m³/h
📍 Recommended Pool Size: Up to 48,000 litres
📍 Maximum Pool Size: Up to 66,000 litres (with extended run time)
📍 Optimal Turnover: 6-8 hours
💡 Pro Tip: For pools at the upper capacity limit, running the filtration system for 10-12 hours daily will maintain excellent water quality. The larger filter area (0.25 m²) means fewer backwash cycles even with extended operation.
⚙️ Installation Requirements
Pre-Installation Checklist
Before installation, ensure you have:
- [ ] Solid, level surface capable of supporting approximately 200kg when filled
- [ ] Adequate drainage area for backwash water (larger volumes than smaller filters)
- [ ] 230V electrical supply within 1.5m (or extension available)
- [ ] 120kg filter sand (0.4-0.8mm grade) – 6 x 20kg bags
- [ ] 20kg gravel (3-5mm grade) – 1 x 20kg bag
- [ ] PVC glue for permanent pipe connections
- [ ] PTFE tape for threaded connections
Plumbing Connections
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Inlet Connection | 50 mm (1.5″) swivel glue socket union |
| Outlet Connection | 50 mm (1.5″) swivel glue socket union |
| Valve Position | Top-mounted 6-way |
| Connection Type | Glue socket or hose connection |
| Included Hose Fittings | Ø38mm hose nozzles with clamps |
Physical Installation Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Base | Solid, level concrete or heavy-duty paving slabs |
| Location | Sheltered area with ventilation |
| Clearance Above | Minimum 600 mm for valve operation and lid removal |
| Clearance Around | Minimum 400 mm for maintenance access |
| Maximum Suction Lift | 2 metres (self-priming limit) |
| Optimal Pump-to-Pool Distance | 5-10 metres |
| Ambient Temperature | Do not install in frost-prone locations |
Electrical Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 230V AC, 50Hz, single phase |
| Power Output | 0.55 kW |
| Cable Length | 1.5 m (with plug fitted) |
| Protection | RCD recommended (available as option) |
| Earthing | Must be properly earthed |
🪨 Filter Media Installation
Media Layering (Critical for Proper Filtration)
The 22″ filter requires two layers of media installed in the correct order. Note the significantly larger quantities compared to smaller models:
Layer 1: Gravel Bed (Bottom)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Media Type | Gravel/pea shingle |
| Grain Size | 3-5 mm diameter |
| Quantity Required | 20 kg (1 x 20kg bag) |
| Purpose | Supports sand bed, prevents lateral clogging |
Layer 2: Filter Sand (Top)
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Media Type | Pool filter sand (silica) |
| Grain Size | 0.4-0.8 mm (fine grade) |
| Quantity Required | 120 kg (6 x 20kg bags) |
| Purpose | Primary filtration medium |
Installation Procedure
- Inspect laterals – Check all 6 filter nozzles are secure and undamaged
- Fill tank 1/3 with water – Protects laterals during media filling
- Position sand guide – Place over central pipe to direct sand away from laterals
- Add gravel first – Pour 20kg evenly around the laterals
- Add sand on top – Pour 120kg evenly, keeping sand guide in place (add in stages)
- Remove sand guide – Lift out carefully
- Level media surface – Ensure even distribution
- Leave 150mm freeboard – Space for bed expansion during backwash
⚠️ Critical: The 22″ filter requires significantly more media than smaller models. Ensure you have all 140kg of media before starting installation. Never operate the filter without both gravel and sand correctly installed.
Alternative Filter Media Options
| Media Type | Filtration Rating | Quantity Needed | Lifespan | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pool Sand (0.4-0.8mm) | 20-40 microns | 120 kg | 5-7 years | Economical, proven performance |
| Filter Glass | 5-15 microns | 102 kg | 10-15 years | Finer filtration, eco-friendly |
| Glass Beads | 10-20 microns | 90 kg | 10+ years | Excellent clarity, lighter weight |
| Filter Balls | 10-15 microns | 3,360 grams | 3-5 years | Ultra-lightweight, easy handling |
💡 Upgrade Recommendation: The larger filter area of the 22″ model makes it particularly well-suited to glass media upgrades. With 102kg of filter glass instead of 120kg sand, you’ll achieve 5-15 micron filtration versus 20-40 microns with sand—noticeably clearer water with 15% less media weight.
🔬 Filtration Performance
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Filter Area | 0.25 m² |
| Design Flow Rate | 11 m³/h |
| Maximum Filter Flow | 12 m³/h |
| Filtration Rating (sand) | 20-40 microns |
| Filtration Rating (glass) | 5-15 microns |
| Bed Depth | Approximately 500mm |
Filter Area Comparison:
| Model | Filter Area | Relative Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Azur 15″ | 0.11 m² | Base |
| Azur 19″ | 0.18 m² | +64% |
| Azur 22″ | 0.25 m² | +127% |
The 22″ filter’s 0.25 m² filter area is more than double that of the 15″ model, providing:
- Longer cycles between backwashing
- Superior debris holding capacity
- Better flow distribution through media
- More consistent filtration performance
- Extended filter media life
Micron Rating Guide – What Gets Captured:
| Rating | Particles Removed | Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| 100+ microns | Leaves, large debris | Clearly visible |
| 40-100 microns | Hair, large dirt particles | Visible to eye |
| 20-40 microns | Sand, fine dirt, suspended particles | Barely visible |
| 10-20 microns | Fine particles, pollen, some algae | Microscopic |
| 5-10 microns | Very fine particles, most algae spores | Requires microscope |
🛠️ Valve Positions & Functions
The Praher 6-way multiport valve provides complete control over your filtration system:
| Position | Function | Water Flow | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| FILTER | Normal filtration | Pool → Pump → Top of filter → Through media → Bottom → Back to pool | Daily operation, standard filtration |
| BACKWASH | Reverse flush to clean media | Pool → Pump → Bottom of filter → Up through media → Waste | When pressure rises 0.3-0.5 bar above baseline |
| RINSE | Settle and clear after backwash | Pool → Pump → Top of filter → Through media → Waste | 30-60 seconds after every backwash |
| WASTE | Bypass filter to drain | Pool → Pump → Direct to waste | Lowering water level, vacuuming heavy debris |
| RECIRCULATE | Bypass filter to pool | Pool → Pump → Direct back to pool | Distributing chemicals, heating circulation |
| CLOSED | All ports blocked | No flow | Pump maintenance, inspection, winterisation |
⚠️ Critical Operating Rules:
- Always switch off the pump before changing valve positions
- Never operate the pump with valve in between positions
- Allow pump to fully stop before moving valve handle
- Lubricate valve O-ring annually with silicone grease
🔄 Maintenance Guide
Routine Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Procedure | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check pressure gauge | Weekly | Record baseline reading when clean | Normal range 0.5-1.0 bar |
| Empty pump strainer basket | Weekly | Switch off pump, open lid, remove debris, rinse | Check lid O-ring condition |
| Backwash filter | Every 2-3 weeks | Run until sight glass clears (3-4 mins) | Larger filter = less frequent backwashing |
| Rinse after backwash | After every backwash | Run for 45-60 seconds | Settles media, clears dirty water |
| Lubricate pump lid O-ring | Monthly | Apply thin coat of silicone grease | Prevents cracking and air leaks |
| Inspect pump lid seal | Monthly | Check for cracks, flattening, deterioration | Replace if worn |
| Check all unions | Monthly | Ensure hand-tight, check for leaks | Do not overtighten |
| Inspect filter media | Annually | Check level, condition, channelling | Top up if settled significantly |
| Service multiport valve | Annually | Lubricate O-rings, check spider gasket | Replace gaskets if cracked |
| Full media replacement | Every 5-7 years (sand) | Empty tank, replace with fresh media | Glass media: 10-15 years |
Pressure Gauge Guide
📊 Clean filter baseline: 0.5-1.0 bar (typical)
📊 Normal operating range: 0.8-1.4 bar
📊 Backwash trigger: 0.3-0.5 bar above your baseline
📊 Caution zone: 1.5-2.0 bar
📊 Maximum safe operating: 2.0 bar
⚠️ If pressure exceeds 2.0 bar, stop pump immediately and investigate.
Backwash Procedure (Step-by-Step)
- Switch off pump – Allow to fully stop
- Set valve to BACKWASH – Push handle down, rotate to position
- Switch on pump – Run for 3-4 minutes (longer than smaller filters due to larger media bed)
- Monitor sight glass – Continue until water runs clear
- Switch off pump – Allow to fully stop
- Set valve to RINSE – Rotate handle to position
- Switch on pump – Run for 45-60 seconds
- Switch off pump – Allow to fully stop
- Set valve to FILTER – Return to normal operation
- Switch on pump – Resume filtration
- Check pressure gauge – Should return to baseline
💡 Water Loss Note: Each backwash cycle uses approximately 500-600 litres of pool water due to the larger filter size and media bed. Top up as needed after backwashing.
❄️ Winterisation Guide (Essential for UK Climate)
Proper winterisation prevents frost damage and extends equipment life. The larger 22″ filter requires extra attention due to increased water capacity.
Complete Winterisation Procedure
Step 1: Final Filtration
- Run filter for 24 hours with shock chlorine dose
- Backwash and rinse thoroughly
- Allow pump to run for 5 minutes after rinse
Step 2: Drain the Filter
- Switch off pump and isolate electrical supply
- Set valve to CLOSED position
- Remove drain plug from filter base
- Allow filter tank to drain completely (20-30 minutes for 22″ filter)
- Tilt tank slightly if needed to remove all water
- Consider using a wet vacuum to ensure complete drainage
Step 3: Drain the Pump
- Open pump lid and remove strainer basket
- Locate and remove pump drain plugs (front and rear)
- Allow pump housing to drain completely
- Leave drain plugs out during storage
Step 4: Drain the Valve
- Loosen valve unions if accessible
- Allow any trapped water to escape
- Leave connections loose over winter
Step 5: Protect Equipment
- Store all removed plugs and fittings in strainer basket
- Place strainer basket inside pump housing
- Cover entire unit with weatherproof tarpaulin
- If possible, move to frost-free location (garage, shed)
Step 6: Pipework
- Drain all external pipework
- Disconnect unions where possible
- Use pipe plugs or caps on open ends
Critical Winter Warnings
⚠️ Never leave water in the filter or pump during freezing conditions
- The larger 22″ tank holds significant water volume
- Ice expansion will crack the filter tank
- Frozen water will destroy pump seals and impeller
- Frost damage is NOT covered by warranty
⚠️ If unit cannot be moved indoors:
- Ensure complete drainage of all components
- Use insulation wrapping as additional protection
- Check regularly during cold spells
🔧 Troubleshooting Guide
Common Issues and Solutions
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pump won’t prime | Air leak on suction side | Check all unions and lid seal for air tightness |
| Strainer basket full | Clean strainer basket | |
| Water level too low | Top up pool water | |
| Suction lift too high | Reposition pump below water level | |
| Low flow rate | Dirty filter media | Backwash thoroughly |
| Blocked strainer basket | Clean basket | |
| Air lock in system | Bleed air from pump lid | |
| Partially closed valve | Check valve position | |
| High pressure | Dirty filter | Backwash and rinse |
| Blocked return line | Clear obstruction | |
| Damaged spider gasket | Replace valve gasket | |
| Sand in pool | Damaged lateral | Inspect and replace lateral |
| Cracked standpipe | Replace internal pipework | |
| Overfilled filter | Remove excess sand | |
| Pump overheating | Blocked ventilation | Clear around motor |
| Running dry | Check water level | |
| Thermal protection activated | Allow to cool, check for blockages | |
| Noisy operation | Cavitation (air in water) | Check for suction air leaks |
| Worn bearings | Professional service required | |
| Loose mountings | Tighten base fixings | |
| Cloudy water despite filtration | Chemical imbalance | Test and balance water chemistry |
| Insufficient run time | Increase daily filtration hours | |
| Worn filter media | Replace sand/media | |
| Algae problem | Shock treat and brush pool |
🏠 Ideal Applications
| Application | Pool Size | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏊 Large above-ground pools | 40,000-55,000 L | ✅ Excellent | Designed specifically for this range |
| 🏊 Extra-large above-ground | 55,000-70,000 L | ✅ Very good | With extended daily run time |
| 🏠 Medium in-ground pools | 35,000-48,000 L | ✅ Excellent | Superior turnover capacity |
| 🏠 Large in-ground pools | 48,000-60,000 L | ✅ Good | Reliable performance |
| 🏊 Intex Ultra XTR XXL pools | 45,000-55,000 L | ✅ Perfect | Significant upgrade from cartridge |
| 🏊 Bestway Power Steel XXL | 40,000-60,000 L | ✅ Excellent | Professional-grade filtration |
| 🏢 Small commercial/rental | Up to 50,000 L | ⚠️ Adequate | For light commercial use only |
Best Suited For:
- Pool owners with larger pools requiring maximum filtration capacity
- Above-ground pool installations needing professional-grade performance
- Permanent in-ground pools up to 60,000 litres
- Upgrading from undersized or struggling filtration systems
- Pools with heavy bather loads or debris exposure
- Pool owners wanting longest intervals between backwashing
Not Recommended For:
- Commercial public swimming pools (use dedicated commercial equipment)
- Pools exceeding 70,000 litres
- Installations with extremely long pipework runs (>20 metres)
- Situations requiring flow rates above 12 m³/h
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Sizing & Compatibility
Q: What size pool will this filter handle? A: This system is designed for pools up to 48,000 litres with optimal 6-8 hour turnover. With extended run times, it can effectively maintain pools up to 66,000 litres. The 11 m³/h pump flow rate and 0.25 m² filter area provide substantial capacity for larger residential pools.
Q: How does the 22″ filter compare to smaller Azur models? A: The 22″ filter offers 127% more filter area than the 15″ model (0.25 m² vs 0.11 m²) and 39% more than the 19″ model (0.25 m² vs 0.18 m²). This translates to longer backwash cycles, better debris capture, and suitability for pools up to 48,000+ litres versus 24,000-36,000 litres for smaller models.
Q: Is this suitable for saltwater pools? A: Yes, all components including the pump housing, filter tank, and valve are resistant to saltwater pool environments up to standard chlorinator salt levels (typically 3,000-6,000 ppm).
Q: Can I use this for a commercial pool? A: This system is designed for residential use and light commercial applications only (holiday let pools, small B&B pools). For public commercial pools, dedicated commercial-grade equipment with appropriate certifications is required.
Filter Media
Q: What filter media should I use? A: The filter requires 20kg of gravel (3-5mm) as a base layer, plus 120kg of filter sand (0.4-0.8mm). That’s 6 bags of sand and 1 bag of gravel. Alternatively, use 102kg of filter glass for improved filtration performance.
Q: How long does filter media last? A: Standard pool sand typically lasts 5-7 years with proper maintenance. Glass media can last 10-15 years. The larger media bed in the 22″ filter may extend life slightly due to better flow distribution.
Q: Is filter media included? A: No, filter media is sold separately. For the 22″ filter, budget for 140kg total media (120kg sand + 20kg gravel).
Operation & Maintenance
Q: How often do I need to backwash? A: The larger 0.25 m² filter area means less frequent backwashing than smaller filters—typically every 2-3 weeks during normal use. Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.3-0.5 bar above your clean baseline reading.
Q: How much water does backwashing use? A: Each backwash cycle uses approximately 500-600 litres due to the larger media bed. This is more than smaller filters but occurs less frequently.
Q: What’s the normal pressure gauge reading? A: A clean filter typically shows 0.5-1.0 bar. Normal operating range is 0.8-1.4 bar. Backwash when pressure rises to 1.3-1.5 bar (0.3-0.5 bar above your specific baseline).
Installation
Q: How heavy is the system when filled with sand and water? A: Empty, the system weighs approximately 50kg. With 120kg of sand plus water saturation, expect total operating weight of approximately 180-200kg. Ensure your installation base can support this weight.
Q: Is the pump self-priming? A: Yes, the FreeFlo FFL-071 pump is fully self-priming up to 2 metres of lift, allowing installation either above or below water level.
Q: How long does installation take? A: For a DIY installation, allow 4-6 hours including pipework connections. The larger media quantity takes longer to install than smaller models. Professional installation is recommended for complex pipework configurations.
Warranty & Support
Q: What warranty is included? A: The filter vessel carries a 5-year manufacturer warranty, the pump has a 2-year warranty (in the set), and the multiport valve is covered for 1 year. Contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and conditions.
Q: Where can I get spare parts? A: All spare parts including O-rings, valve gaskets, laterals, pump seals, and strainer baskets are available from Parts4Tubs and authorised Pentair stockists.
📥 Downloads & Resources
Pentair Azur with FreeFlo Installation Manual – Complete installation and operating instructions (multi-language)
Pentair Azur with FreeFlo Brochure – Product overview and marketing specifications
FreeFlo Pump Technical Brochure – Detailed pump specifications and performance curves
🏆 Why Choose the Pentair Azur 22″ with FreeFlo 0.75hp Pump Pack
✅ Maximum Residential Capacity – The largest Azur filter handles pools up to 48,000+ litres
✅ 127% More Filter Area – 0.25 m² provides superior debris capture versus 15″ model
✅ World-Leading Brand – Pentair is the global leader in residential pool equipment
✅ Extended Backwash Intervals – Larger filter area means less frequent maintenance
✅ Powerful 0.75hp Pump – 11 m³/h flow handles demanding filtration requirements
✅ Exceptional Durability – Extra-thick blow-moulded tank construction built to last
✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation – Mono-block pump design minimises noise
✅ Simple Installation – Pre-assembled on unified base with swivel unions
✅ Future-Proof Design – Variable speed drive compatible for energy-saving upgrades
✅ Comprehensive Warranty – Industry-leading 5-year tank warranty plus 2-year pump coverage
✅ Outstanding Value – Professional-grade system at an accessible price point
✅ UK Climate Ready – Large drain ports and proper winterisation design suit British conditions
🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs
✅ UK-Based Company – Local support from pool equipment specialists who understand UK conditions
✅ Fast UK Delivery – Efficient dispatch to get your equipment to you quickly
✅ Expert Advice – Knowledgeable team available to help with sizing and technical questions
✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on genuine Pentair products
✅ Full Warranty Support – We handle warranty claims directly for hassle-free resolution
✅ Easy Returns – 30-day returns policy if the product doesn’t meet your needs
✅ Complete Range – Filter media, spare parts, chemicals, and accessories all available
✅ Authorised Stockist – Genuine Pentair products with full manufacturer backing
💫 Summary
The Pentair Azur 22″ Sand Filter with FreeFlo 0.75hp Pump Pack delivers maximum residential filtration capacity for pools up to 48,000 litres. Featuring the largest Azur filter with an impressive 0.25 m² filter area—more than double the 15″ model—this system provides exceptional debris capture, extended backwash intervals, and consistently crystal-clear water for demanding pool environments.
Paired with the reliable FreeFlo FFL-071 pump delivering 11 m³/h flow rate, this complete system includes everything needed for installation on a unified base plate. Simply add 120kg of filter sand and 20kg of gravel, connect your pipework, and enjoy sparkling pool water with minimal maintenance.
Backed by a 5-year filter vessel warranty, 2-year pump warranty, and Pentair’s 40+ year reputation for quality, this flagship filter pack represents the ultimate solution for larger residential pools. Order today from Parts4Tubs and experience professional-grade filtration performance.



