🌊 Brasil ZZFBS450 Side Mount Sand Filter – 450mm (18″) – Up to 64,000 Litre Pool Capacity

Superior filtration performance for sparkling clean water all season long

💧 Product Overview

The Certikin Brasil ZZFBS450 is a high-quality 450mm (18″) side mount sand filter engineered for reliable filtration of medium-sized residential swimming pools. Constructed from durable anthracite grey High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) using advanced blow-moulding technology, this filter delivers consistent performance with exceptional longevity.

With a flow rate of 8 m³/hr, this filter efficiently handles pools up to approximately 64,000 litres when operating on the recommended 8-hour turnover cycle. The Brasil range from Certikin is renowned throughout the UK pool industry for its seamless construction, which eliminates any possibility of leakage, and its excellent value for money.

The side mount configuration features a convenient clear lid allowing you to visually inspect the filter media inside, making maintenance monitoring straightforward. Complete with a 6-way multiport valve, integrated pressure gauge, and drain valve, the ZZFBS450 provides everything needed for comprehensive filtration control straight out of the box.

⭐ Key Features

• ✅ Side Mount Configuration – Easy access for servicing and maintenance with clear lid for media inspection
• ✅ 450mm (18″) Tank Diameter – Ideal sizing for medium residential and larger above-ground pools
• ✅ 8 m³/hr Flow Rate – Capable of turning over pools up to 64,000 litres in 8 hours
• ✅ Blow-Moulded HDPE Construction – Seamless design eliminates leakage and resists UV degradation
• ✅ 6-Way Multiport Valve Included – Filter, backwash, rinse, waste, recirculate, and closed positions
• ✅ Integrated Pressure Gauge – Monitor filter performance and know exactly when backwashing is needed
• ✅ Drain Valve Included – Simple winterisation and maintenance drainage
• ✅ 1.5″ (50mm) Connections – Standard sizing for easy integration with existing pool plumbing
• ✅ 2 Bar Maximum Working Pressure – Robust construction for reliable operation
• ✅ Anthracite Grey Finish – Attractive, professional appearance that complements any pool installation

🔧 Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Model Number	ZZFBS450
Filter Type	Sand Filter – Side Mount
Tank Diameter	450mm (18″)
Flow Rate	8 m³/hr
Pool Capacity	Up to 64,000 litres (8-hour turnover)
Media Capacity	Approximately 45 kg
Media Type	Silica sand (0.5-0.7mm grade)
Inlet/Outlet Size	1.5″ (50mm)
Maximum Working Pressure	2 bar (2 kg/cm²)
Tank Material	HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
Manufacturing Method	Blow-moulded (seamless)
Valve Type	6-Way Multiport Valve
Colour	Anthracite Grey
Included Accessories	Multiport valve, pressure gauge, drain valve
Certifications	CE marked

⚠️ Note: Filter sand is NOT included. Approximately 45kg of silica sand (0.5-0.7mm grade) required.

📏 Pool Sizing Guide

Sizing Principle:

The filter flow rate should turn over the entire pool volume within 6-8 hours for optimal water quality.

Formula:

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

Pool Size Compatibility Table:

Pool Type	Volume Range	Suitability
🏊 Small above-ground	Up to 20,000 L	Excellent – fast turnover
🏊 Medium above-ground	20,000-40,000 L	Excellent – optimal sizing
🏊 Large above-ground	40,000-60,000 L	Good – ideal for this filter
🏠 Small in-ground	Up to 30,000 L	Excellent – fast turnover
🏠 Medium in-ground	30,000-50,000 L	Excellent – optimal sizing
🏠 Large in-ground	50,000-64,000 L	Good – maximum recommended

This Filter:

📍 Flow Rate: 8 m³/hr
📍 Suitable for pools up to: 64,000 litres (8-hour turnover) or 48,000 litres (6-hour turnover)

💡 Tip: For pools at the upper capacity limit, consider running the filter for longer periods during peak swimming season.

🛠️ Installation Requirements

Plumbing Connections:

Requirement	Specification
Inlet Connection	1.5″ (50mm)
Outlet Connection	1.5″ (50mm)
Valve Position	Side mount

Physical Installation:

Requirement	Details
Base	Solid, level, horizontal surface required
Recommended Position	0.5m below pool water level for optimal priming
Drainage	Ensure waste drain access is available nearby
Clearance	Allow sufficient space around filter for maintenance access

Pump Compatibility:

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

Pump Specification	Recommendation
Minimum Flow Rate	4 m³/hr
Optimal Flow Rate	6-8 m³/hr
Maximum Flow Rate	Do not exceed 8 m³/hr

⚠️ Warning: Using a pump that exceeds the filter’s maximum flow rate can damage the filter and reduce filtration efficiency.

Installation Notes:

• Use plastic fittings and PTFE tape only – do not use iron pipes or hemp
• Ensure all joints are properly sealed
• Position filter as close to pool as practical
• Provide adequate ventilation in plant room

🔄 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance Schedule:

Task	Frequency	How To
Check pressure gauge	Weekly	Note baseline reading when filter is clean
Backwash filter	When pressure rises 0.5 bar above baseline	Run for 2-4 minutes until sight glass clears
Rinse after backwash	After each backwash	Run for 30-60 seconds
Inspect seals and o-rings	Seasonally	Replace if worn or damaged
Check media level	Annually	Top up if media has settled
Clean sand with filter cleaner	Annually	Use Filnet or similar product
Full media change	Every 3-5 years	Replace all sand completely

Pressure Gauge Guide:

📊 Clean filter (baseline): Approximately 0.8 bar (11.4 PSI)
📊 Backwash needed: 1.3 bar (18.5 PSI) – approximately 0.5 bar above baseline
📊 Maximum safe operating: 2.0 bar (29 PSI)

Backwash Procedure:

1. Switch off the pump
2. Turn multiport valve to “BACKWASH” position
3. Switch on pump and run for 2-4 minutes
4. Switch off pump
5. Turn valve to “RINSE” position
6. Run pump for 30-60 seconds
7. Switch off pump
8. Return valve to “FILTER” position
9. Resume normal filtration

Winterisation (UK Climate):

• ❄️ Perform a final backwash and rinse before closing pool for winter
• ❄️ Drain filter tank completely using the drain valve
• ❄️ Remove drain plug and store safely
• ❄️ Remove filter lid to allow ventilation during storage
• ❄️ Cover or relocate to frost-free location if possible
• ❄️ Never leave water in the filter during freezing conditions

🪨 Filter Media Information

Compatible Media Types:

Media Type	Filtration Rating	Lifespan	Benefits
Silica Sand	20-40 microns	3-5 years	Economical, widely available, proven performance
Glass Media	5-15 microns	7-10+ years	Finer filtration, longer life, eco-friendly
ZeoSand	3-5 microns	5 years	Superior water clarity, reduced chemical usage

Media Specifications for ZZFBS450:

• Capacity: Approximately 45 kg
• Recommended Sand Grade: 0.5-0.7mm silica sand (16/32 grade)
• Alternative: Recycled glass filter media (RGFM) – use approximately 15% less quantity

Loading Instructions:

1. Position filter in final location with plumbing connected
2. Remove lid and o-ring
3. Fill filter tank half full with water (protects laterals during sand loading)
4. Pour in required quantity of sand carefully
5. Clean o-ring seating area
6. Replace lid and secure

Signs Media Needs Replacing:

• ⚠️ Poor water clarity despite correct chemical balance
• ⚠️ Very short filter cycles between backwashes
• ⚠️ Cloudy water returns to pool after backwashing
• ⚠️ Sand passing through to pool (indicates damaged laterals)

💎 Filtration Performance

Metric	Value
Filtration Rating (Sand)	20-40 microns
Filtration Rating (Glass Media)	5-15 microns
Flow Rate	8 m³/hr

Micron Rating Guide – What Gets Filtered:

Rating	What It Removes
40+ microns	Visible debris, leaves, large particles
20-40 microns	Fine sand, dirt, visible particles, hair
10-20 microns	Fine particles, some algae spores
5-10 microns	Very fine particles, most algae, improved clarity

💡 Tip: Upgrade to glass filter media for finer filtration (5-15 microns) compared to standard sand (20-40 microns), resulting in noticeably clearer water.

⚙️ Valve Positions & Functions

The 6-way multiport valve provides complete control over all filtration operations:

Position	Function
FILTER	Normal filtration – water passes through sand and returns clean to pool
BACKWASH	Reverses water flow to flush dirt from sand to waste drain
RINSE	Settles sand after backwash and flushes remaining debris to waste
WASTE	Bypasses filter, sends water directly to drain (for lowering water level)
RECIRCULATE	Bypasses filter, circulates water back to pool (for chemical distribution)
CLOSED	Stops all water flow through valve (for pump basket cleaning)

⚠️ Important: Always switch off the pump before changing valve positions to prevent damage to the valve seal.

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Pool Size	Suitability
🏠 Residential above-ground pools	Up to 60,000 L	Excellent
🏠 Residential in-ground pools	Up to 64,000 L	Excellent
🏠 Domestic garden pools	20,000-50,000 L	Optimal sizing
🏊 Swim spas and large hot tubs	High flow requirements	Good
💧 Water features	Various	Suitable

Perfect For:

• Family garden pools requiring reliable, low-maintenance filtration
• Above-ground pool installations with space for side mount configuration
• Budget-conscious pool owners seeking quality without premium pricing
• Replacement filters for existing Brasil or similar side mount installations

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What size pool will this filter handle?

A: The ZZFBS450 is suitable for pools up to approximately 64,000 litres when operating on an 8-hour turnover cycle, or 48,000 litres for a 6-hour turnover. This covers most medium-sized residential pools in the UK.

Q: How often do I need to backwash?

A: Backwash when the pressure gauge reads approximately 0.5 bar (7 PSI) above your clean baseline reading. This is typically every 1-2 weeks during the swimming season, but frequency depends on pool usage and debris levels.

Q: What filter media should I use?

A: The filter is compatible with silica sand (0.5-0.7mm grade), glass filter media, or ZeoSand. Sand capacity is approximately 45 kg. For improved filtration, consider glass media which achieves finer particle removal and lasts longer.

Q: How long does filter media last?

A: Silica sand typically lasts 3-5 years with proper maintenance. Glass filter media can last 7-10+ years. Annual cleaning with a filter media cleaner helps extend media life.

Q: What pump do I need?

A: Match with a pump delivering 6-8 m³/hr for optimal performance. The pump should not exceed the filter’s maximum flow rate of 8 m³/hr. Pumps in the 0.5-0.75 HP range typically suit this filter well.

Q: Is filter sand included?

A: No, filter sand is not included with this filter. You will need to purchase approximately 45 kg of 0.5-0.7mm grade silica sand separately. Glass filter media is also available as an upgrade option.

Q: What’s the difference between top mount and side mount?

A: Side mount filters (like this model) have the multiport valve positioned on the side of the tank, allowing easier access for maintenance and featuring a clear lid for media inspection. Top mount filters have the valve on top and are often more compact.

Q: Can I use this filter with a salt chlorinator?

A: Yes, the HDPE construction is resistant to salt and chemicals, making this filter compatible with salt chlorination systems.

Q: What warranty is included?

A: Please contact Parts4Tubs directly for current warranty terms and conditions.

📥 Downloads & Resources

📄 Installation & Operation Manual – Complete installation guide and operating instructions (Multi-language)

🏆 Why Choose the Brasil ZZFBS450

• ✅ Proven Reliability – Certikin Brasil filters are trusted throughout the UK pool industry
• ✅ Seamless Construction – Blow-moulded HDPE eliminates leak points
• ✅ Complete Package – Includes multiport valve, pressure gauge, and drain valve
• ✅ Easy Monitoring – Clear lid allows visual inspection of media condition
• ✅ UV Resistant – Durable construction suitable for outdoor installations
• ✅ Excellent Value – Professional-grade filtration at an affordable price
• ✅ Versatile Compatibility – Standard 1.5″ connections suit most pool plumbing systems
• ✅ Low Maintenance – Simple backwash procedure keeps filter performing optimally

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

• ✅ UK-based company with local knowledge and support
• ✅ Fast UK delivery to get your pool running quickly
• ✅ Expert advice from pool and hot tub specialists
• ✅ Competitive pricing on quality pool equipment
• ✅ Full warranty support on all products
• ✅ Easy returns within 30 days if not completely satisfied
• ✅ Compatible accessories – filter media, pumps, and spare parts available
• ✅ Established reputation – built on the success of buildahottub.com

✨ Summary

The Certikin Brasil ZZFBS450 Side Mount Sand Filter delivers reliable, efficient filtration for pools up to 64,000 litres. With its robust blow-moulded HDPE construction, comprehensive 6-way valve, and convenient side mount design with clear inspection lid, this filter offers exceptional value for UK pool owners seeking professional-grade water quality without the premium price tag. Complete with pressure gauge and drain valve, the ZZFBS450 is ready to deliver crystal clear swimming water season after season.

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