🌊 PPG Filter Deluxe 36″ Side Mount Sand Filter with 2″ Multiport Valve & Gauge

Superior filtration performance meets industrial-grade construction for demanding pool installations

💧 Product Overview

The PPG Filter Deluxe 36″ represents the pinnacle of residential sand filter engineering, combining the proven reliability of Lacron filter technology with industrial-grade components typically reserved for commercial installations. This premium laminated sand filter delivers exceptional water clarity for pools up to 180,000 litres with optimal 6-hour turnover rates.

Manufactured from high-quality glass fibre reinforced polyester, the tank features strategic reinforcement at all critical structural points, ensuring long-term durability under demanding conditions. The distinctive herringbone (fishbone) lateral distribution system eliminates dead spots within the filter bed, optimising both filtration efficiency and backwash performance.

Complete with a premium Waterco 6-way multiport valve featuring characteristic swept elbows and an extra-long lever for effortless operation, this filter represents the perfect balance of professional-grade performance and residential practicality. The industrial-quality transparent lid with integrated deaeration valve and pressure gauge provides instant visual monitoring of filter operation.

⭐ Key Features

✅ Premium Laminated Construction – Glass fibre reinforced polyester tank with reinforcement at all critical structural points for maximum durability

✅ 30 m³/h Flow Rate – High-capacity design suitable for pools up to 180,000 litres with 6-hour turnover

✅ Herringbone Lateral System – Unique fishbone distribution arms eliminate dead spots for optimal flow distribution and superior backwashing

✅ Industrial-Grade Transparent Lid – ø200mm commercial-quality clear lid with quick-closing ring for easy inspection and maintenance

✅ Integrated Deaeration Valve – Built-in air bleed valve prevents air locks and ensures consistent filtration performance

✅ Pressure Gauge Included – Factory-fitted gauge for continuous monitoring of filter condition

✅ Waterco 6-Way Multiport Valve – Premium valve with swept elbows and extra-long lever for smooth, precise operation

✅ 2″ (50mm) Connections – Large-bore inlet/outlet for minimal flow restriction with both metric and imperial union options

✅ Double Drain System – Industrial-grade drain allows separate drainage of water only or complete water and media discharge

✅ Corrosion & UV Resistant – Built to withstand outdoor installation and harsh pool chemicals

✅ 10-Year Tank Warranty – Extended manufacturer warranty demonstrates confidence in build quality

✅ Besgo Compatible – Ready for optional automatic backwash valve upgrade

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Filter Type	High-Rate Sand Filter (Side Mount)
Pool Capacity	Up to 180,000 litres (6-hr turnover) / 240,000 litres (8-hr turnover)
Flow Rate	30 m³/h at 50m/h filtration velocity
Tank Diameter	914 mm (36″)
Filter Area	0.66 m²
Filtration Rating	20-40 microns (standard sand media)
Maximum Working Pressure	2.5 bar (36 psi)
Inlet/Outlet Size	2″ (50mm)
Tank Material	Glass Fibre Reinforced Polyester (GRP)
Valve Type	Waterco 6-Way Multiport (Side Mount)
Lid Diameter	ø200mm (Clear, Commercial Grade)
Media Capacity – Sand/Silex	350 kg sand / 100 kg silex (450 kg total)
Media Capacity – Glass Media	300 kg Grade 1 / 85 kg Grade 2 (385 kg total)
Weight (Empty)	46 kg
Package Dimensions	0.96m × 0.96m × 1.1m
Warranty	10 years (tank)

📐 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 chemical distribution.

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 margin
🏊 Medium In-Ground	50,000 – 100,000 L	✅ Excellent – ideal sizing range
🏊 Large In-Ground	100,000 – 150,000 L	✅ Very Good – optimal for most installations
🌊 Extra Large In-Ground	150,000 – 180,000 L	✅ Good – meets 6-hour turnover
🏢 Small Commercial	180,000 – 240,000 L	⚠️ Suitable with 8-hour turnover

This Filter:

📍 Flow Rate: 30 m³/h
📍 Optimal Pool Size: Up to 180,000 litres (6-hour turnover)
📍 Maximum Pool Size: Up to 240,000 litres (8-hour turnover)

🔌 Installation Requirements

Plumbing Connections:

Requirement	Specification
Inlet Connection	2″ (50mm)
Outlet Connection	2″ (50mm)
Valve Position	Side Mount
Union Type	Metric and Imperial quick-connect unions included

Physical Installation:

Requirement	Details
Base	Solid, level concrete pad or paving required
Clearance Above	Minimum 500mm for lid access and valve operation
Clearance Around	Minimum 300mm for maintenance access
Location	Well-ventilated area, protected from direct sunlight if possible

Pump Compatibility:

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

Pump Specification	Requirement
Recommended Pump Flow Rate	20-30 m³/h
Maximum Pump Flow Rate	Do not exceed 30 m³/h
Minimum Backwash Flow Rate	20 m³/h for effective media cleaning

💡 Tip: The filter pairs ideally with variable speed pumps or single-speed pumps rated between 1.5-2.0 HP, depending on system head pressure.

🔄 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance Schedule:

Task	Frequency	Procedure
Check pressure gauge	Weekly	Record baseline pressure when filter is clean
Backwash filter	When pressure rises 0.5-0.8 bar above baseline	Run until sight glass runs clear (typically 2-3 minutes)
Rinse after backwash	After every backwash	Run for 30-60 seconds to settle media
Inspect lid seals	Monthly during season	Replace O-rings if worn or cracked
Check valve operation	Monthly	Ensure smooth operation through all 6 positions
Inspect media level	Annually	Top up if level has dropped significantly
Full media replacement	Every 5-7 years (sand) / 10+ years (glass)	Replace entire media charge

Pressure Gauge Guide:

📊 Clean filter baseline: 0.5-0.8 bar (typical)
📊 Backwash required: When 0.5-0.8 bar above baseline
📊 Maximum safe operating pressure: 2.5 bar

⚠️ Warning: Never operate filter with pressure gauge reading above 2.5 bar. Investigate cause immediately if pressure exceeds safe limits.

Winterisation (UK Climate):

For the British climate, proper winterisation is essential to prevent frost damage:

1. Switch off pump and isolate electrical supply
2. Set multiport valve to “Winterise” or between positions
3. Remove drain plug(s) to completely drain filter tank
4. Open air bleed valve on lid
5. Remove and store drain plugs in a safe location
6. Cover filter if exposed to elements, or ideally store in frost-free location
7. Never leave standing water in filter during freezing conditions

💡 Tip: The double drain system allows you to drain water only (for mid-season maintenance) or water and media together (for complete servicing).

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🪨 Filter Media Information

Compatible Media Types:

Media Type	Filtration Rating	Lifespan	Capacity Required	Benefits
Pool Grade Sand (16/30)	20-40 microns	5-7 years	350 kg	Economical, proven performance
Sand + Silex Combination	20-40 microns	5-7 years	350 kg sand + 100 kg silex	Enhanced structural support
Glass Filter Media	10-15 microns	10+ years	300 kg Grade 1 + 85 kg Grade 2	Superior clarity, water savings
AFM® Activated Glass	5-10 microns	Permanent	See manufacturer specs	Premium filtration, anti-bacterial
ZeoSand / Zeolite	3-5 microns	5 years	See manufacturer specs	Exceptional clarity, chloramine removal

Recommended Media Charge: 350 kg sand / 100 kg silex OR 385 kg glass media total

Signs Media Needs Replacing:

• Poor water clarity despite correct chemical balance
• Short filter cycles between backwashes
• Visible sand/media returning to pool
• Increased chemical demand
• Filter channelling (water bypassing media)
• Media has become calcite or compacted

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🔬 Filtration Performance

Metric	Value
Filter Area	0.66 m²
Standard Filtration Rating (Sand)	20-40 microns
Enhanced Filtration Rating (Glass Media)	10-15 microns
Premium Filtration Rating (AFM®)	5-10 microns
Design Filtration Velocity	50 m/h

Micron Rating Guide:

Rating	What It Captures
40+ microns	Visible debris, leaves, large particles
20-40 microns	Sand, dirt, most visible particles
10-20 microns	Fine particles, some algae spores
5-10 microns	Very fine particles, most algae, early biofilm
1-5 microns	Bacteria, fine silt, virtually all suspended matter

💡 Performance Tip: Upgrade to glass filter media for significantly improved water clarity and reduced backwash water consumption.

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⚙️ Valve Positions & Functions

The included Waterco 6-way multiport valve provides complete control over filter operation:

Position	Function	When to Use
Filter	Normal filtration mode	Day-to-day pool operation
Backwash	Reverses water flow to flush debris from media	When pressure rises 0.5-0.8 bar above clean baseline
Rinse	Forward flow to settle and compact media	For 30-60 seconds after every backwash
Waste	Bypasses filter, drains directly to waste	Vacuuming to waste, lowering water level, draining debris
Recirculate	Bypasses filter media, returns to pool	Distributing chemicals quickly, when filter is being serviced
Closed	Stops all water flow	When pump is off, during maintenance

⚠️ Important: Always switch off pump before changing valve position to prevent damage to valve internals.

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🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Pool Size	Suitability Rating
🏠 Large Residential Above-Ground	Up to 80,000 L	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
🏠 Standard Residential In-Ground	50,000 – 100,000 L	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
🏠 Large Residential In-Ground	100,000 – 180,000 L	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
🏢 Small Holiday Let / Rental Property	Up to 150,000 L	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
🏢 B&B / Small Hotel Pool	Up to 120,000 L	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good
🏊 Swim Spa Installation	Any size	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
🌊 Koi Pond / Water Feature	Large installations	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size pool will this filter handle?

A: The PPG Filter Deluxe 36″ is suitable for pools up to 180,000 litres with an optimal 6-hour turnover rate, or pools up to 240,000 litres with an 8-hour turnover. With a flow rate of 30 m³/h, this filter handles the vast majority of residential and small commercial installations with ease.

Q: How often do I need to backwash?

A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 0.5-0.8 bar above your clean baseline reading. This is typically every 1-3 weeks depending on pool usage, debris load, and environmental factors. After backwashing, always run the rinse cycle for 30-60 seconds.

Q: What filter media should I use?

A: The filter is compatible with standard pool-grade sand (350kg + 100kg silex), glass filter media (300kg Grade 1 + 85kg Grade 2), AFM®, or ZeoSand. For superior water clarity and reduced backwash frequency, we recommend upgrading to glass filter media.

Q: How long does filter media last?

A: Standard sand media typically lasts 5-7 years with proper maintenance. Glass filter media can last 10+ years, making it a cost-effective upgrade despite higher initial cost.

Q: What pump do I need?

A: Match with a pump delivering 20-30 m³/h at your system’s head pressure. Do not exceed the filter’s 30 m³/h maximum flow rate. Ensure pump flow rate meets the minimum 20 m³/h required for effective backwashing.

Q: What warranty is included?

A: The PPG Filter Deluxe 36″ comes with a 10-year tank warranty from the manufacturer. Contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and conditions.

Q: Can I automate the backwash process?

A: Yes, the filter is designed to be compatible with Besgo automatic backwash valves for fully automated filter maintenance.

Q: Is this filter suitable for outdoor installation?

A: Yes, the corrosion-resistant and UV-stable GRP construction makes it suitable for outdoor installation. However, for maximum longevity, consider providing shade or housing where practical.

Q: What are the herringbone laterals?

A: The herringbone (fishbone) lateral design at the bottom of the filter ensures even water distribution throughout the entire filter bed, eliminating dead spots that can occur with conventional lateral systems. This improves both filtration efficiency and backwash effectiveness.

Q: Can I see inside the filter during operation?

A: Yes, the ø200mm industrial-grade transparent lid allows you to observe water flow and clarity during filtration and backwashing, making it easy to confirm when the backwash cycle is complete.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 PPG Filter Deluxe Technical Datasheet (PDF) – Complete specifications for all PPG Filter Deluxe models

🏆 Why Choose the PPG Filter Deluxe 36″

✅ Premium Build Quality – Industrial-grade components combined with reinforced GRP construction deliver exceptional durability and longevity

✅ Superior Filtration Performance – The unique herringbone lateral system ensures optimal water distribution for crystal-clear pool water

✅ Professional-Grade Components – Commercial-quality transparent lid, integrated pressure gauge, and premium Waterco multiport valve

✅ Versatile Media Compatibility – Works with sand, glass media, AFM®, or ZeoSand for flexibility in filtration performance

✅ Generous Capacity – 30 m³/h flow rate handles large residential and small commercial pools with ease

✅ Outstanding Warranty – 10-year tank warranty demonstrates manufacturer confidence

✅ Easy Maintenance – Large clear lid provides convenient access, double drain system simplifies servicing

✅ Future-Proof Design – Compatible with Besgo automatic backwash system for optional upgrade

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ UK-Based Company – Local support from pool specialists who understand UK requirements

✅ Fast UK Delivery – Quick dispatch to get your pool up and running

✅ Expert Advice – Technical guidance from experienced pool equipment professionals

✅ Competitive Pricing – Great value on premium pool equipment

✅ Full Warranty Support – We stand behind everything we sell

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

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

✨ Summary

The PPG Filter Deluxe 36″ Side Mount Sand Filter combines Lacron’s proven reliability with industrial-grade enhancements to deliver exceptional performance for pools up to 180,000 litres. With its 30 m³/h flow rate, herringbone lateral distribution system, commercial-quality transparent lid, and premium Waterco 6-way multiport valve, this filter offers professional-grade water clarity in a maintenance-friendly package backed by a 10-year tank warranty. Ideal for large residential pools, holiday let properties, and demanding installations where reliability and performance are paramount.

Order today and experience the difference premium filtration makes to your pool water quality.