🌊 ZZFBS500 Brasil 500mm (20″) Side Mount Sand Filter – 10m³/hr Flow Rate
Superior filtration performance for larger residential and small commercial pools
💧 Product Overview
The ZZFBS500 Brasil 500mm (20″) Side Mount Sand Filter delivers outstanding water clarity for larger residential pools and small commercial installations. Manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) using advanced blow-moulding technology, this filter combines exceptional durability with reliable performance season after season.
Featuring an impressive 10m³/hr flow rate, the Brasil filter efficiently handles pools requiring higher filtration capacity whilst maintaining crystal clear water quality. The distinctive anthracite grey finish complements any pool equipment setup, whilst the side-mount valve configuration provides flexible installation options and straightforward maintenance access.
This complete filtration package arrives ready for installation with a 6-way multiport valve, pressure gauge, and drain valve included. The Brasil series has earned a reputation among UK pool owners for dependable performance and excellent value, making it the smart choice for discerning pool owners.
⭐ Key Features
- ✅ Side Mount 6-Way Valve – Complete multiport valve included for comprehensive filtration control
- ✅ 10m³/hr Flow Rate – High-capacity filtration suitable for larger pools up to 60,000-80,000 litres
- ✅ 500mm (20″) Tank Diameter – Generous filtration area for extended filter cycles
- ✅ HDPE Construction – Blow-moulded high-density polyethylene for exceptional durability
- ✅ Pressure Gauge Included – Monitor filter performance and know exactly when to backwash
- ✅ Drain Valve Fitted – Easy winterisation and maintenance access
- ✅ 2 kg/cm² Working Pressure – Robust design for reliable long-term operation
- ✅ Anthracite Grey Finish – Attractive appearance that complements pool equipment
- ✅ 1.5″ Connections – Standard sizing for easy integration with existing plumbing
- ✅ Chemical and UV Resistant – HDPE material withstands outdoor conditions
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Sand Filter |
| Model | ZZFBS500 |
| Tank Diameter | 500mm (20″) |
| Flow Rate | 10m³/hr |
| Valve Type | 6-Way Multiport (Side Mount) |
| Maximum Working Pressure | 2 kg/cm² (28.4 PSI) |
| Inlet/Outlet Connections | 1.5″ (38mm) |
| Tank Material | HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) |
| Colour | Anthracite Grey |
| Media Capacity | Approximately 75kg sand |
| Media Type | Silica Sand 0.5-0.7mm (16/30 grade) |
| Filtration Rating | 20-40 microns (with standard sand) |
| Included Components | 6-Way Valve, Pressure Gauge, Drain Valve |
📐 Pool Sizing Guide
Sizing Principle:
The filter flow rate should turn over the entire pool volume in 6-8 hours for optimal water quality.
Formula:
Required Flow Rate (m³/h) = Pool Volume (m³) ÷ Turnover Time (hours)
Pool Size Compatibility:
| Pool Type | Volume Range | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Medium Above-Ground | 20,000-40,000 L | ✅ Excellent – Ideal match |
| 🏠 Large Above-Ground | 40,000-60,000 L | ✅ Very Good – Recommended |
| 🏊 Small In-Ground | Up to 50,000 L | ✅ Excellent – Perfect sizing |
| 🏊 Medium In-Ground | 50,000-80,000 L | ✅ Good – Suitable with 8hr turnover |
| 🏢 Small Commercial | Up to 60,000 L | ✅ Good – Entry-level commercial |
This Filter:
📍 Flow Rate: 10m³/hr (10,000 litres per hour)
📍 Suitable for pools up to: 60,000-80,000 litres (with 6-8 hour turnover)
📍 Example calculation: A 60,000L pool ÷ 10m³/hr = 6 hours turnover time ✅
🔌 Installation Requirements
Plumbing Connections:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Inlet Connection | 1.5″ (38mm) |
| Outlet Connection | 1.5″ (38mm) |
| Valve Position | Side Mount |
| Connection Type | Threaded |
Physical Installation:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Base | Solid, level, horizontal surface required |
| Location | As close to pool as practical |
| Ideal Position | 0.5m below pool water level (if possible) |
| Drainage | Install near a suitable drain point |
| Clearance | Allow adequate space around filter for maintenance |
Pump Compatibility:
⚠️ Important: Filter must be matched with an appropriate pump for optimal performance.
- Recommended pump flow rate: 8-10m³/hr
- Minimum pump flow rate: 6m³/hr
- Maximum pump flow rate: Do not exceed 10m³/hr
- Typical pump size: 0.5HP to 0.75HP
💡 Tip: Use plastic fittings and PTFE tape for all connections. Never use iron pipe fittings or hemp for the valve connections.
🔄 Maintenance Guide
Routine Maintenance Schedule:
| Task | Frequency | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Check pressure gauge | Weekly | Record baseline reading |
| Backwash | When pressure rises 0.5 bar above baseline | Run until sight glass clears |
| Rinse after backwash | After each backwash | 30-60 seconds |
| Inspect seals and gaskets | Seasonally | Replace if worn or damaged |
| Check sand level | Annually | Top up if low |
| Full sand replacement | Every 3-5 years | Replace completely |
| Chemical sand cleaning | Annually | Use filter cleaner product |
Pressure Gauge Guide:
📊 Clean filter baseline: 0.8 kg/cm² (11.4 PSI)
📊 Backwash required: 1.3 kg/cm² (18.5 PSI)
📊 Maximum safe pressure: 2.0 kg/cm² (28.4 PSI)
Valve Positions:
- Filter – Normal filtration operation
- Backwash – Reverse flow to clean sand media
- Rinse – Settle sand after backwash (run 1 minute)
- Waste – Bypass filter, drain water to waste
- Recirculate – Bypass filter, return water to pool
- Closed – Stop all water flow
⚠️ Critical: Always switch off the pump before changing valve positions.
Winterisation (UK Climate):
- Perform a backwash and rinse cycle
- Drain filter tank completely via drain valve
- Remove filter lid to allow ventilation during storage
- Store drain plug safely
- Cover filter or store in frost-free location if possible
- Never leave water in filter during freezing conditions
🪨 Filter Media Information
Compatible Media Types:
| Media Type | Filtration Rating | Lifespan | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silica Sand (16/30 grade) | 20-40 microns | 3-5 years | Economical, proven performance |
| Glass Media | 5-15 microns | 10+ years | Finer filtration, uses 20% less |
| ZeoSand | 3-5 microns | 5 years | Superior water clarity |
Media Capacity: Approximately 75kg of 0.5-0.7mm silica sand
Sand Loading Instructions:
- Position filter in final location with pipework connected
- Remove lid and gasket
- Fill filter halfway with water (protects laterals during loading)
- Pour required quantity of sand into filter
- Clean gasket seating area
- Replace gasket and secure lid
Signs Media Needs Replacing:
- Poor water clarity despite correct chemical balance
- Short filter cycles between backwashes
- Sand or debris returning to pool
- Pressure gauge not returning to baseline after backwash
- Channelling visible in sand bed
🔬 Filtration Performance
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 10m³/hr |
| Filtration Rating (Sand) | 20-40 microns |
| Filtration Rating (Glass) | 5-15 microns |
| Tank Diameter | 500mm |
Micron Rating Guide:
| Rating | What It Removes |
|---|---|
| 40+ microns | Visible debris, leaves, large particles |
| 20-40 microns | Sand, dirt, visible suspended particles |
| 10-20 microns | Fine particles, some algae spores |
| 5-10 microns | Very fine particles, most algae, improved clarity |
💡 Upgrade Tip: Switching from sand to glass media can improve filtration from 40 microns down to 5-15 microns for noticeably clearer water.
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Pool Size | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Residential Above-Ground | 20,000-60,000 L | ✅ Excellent choice |
| 🏠 Residential In-Ground | Up to 80,000 L | ✅ Ideal sizing |
| 🏠 High-Usage Family Pool | Up to 60,000 L | ✅ Handles increased bather load |
| 🏊 Pools with Water Features | Up to 60,000 L | ✅ Copes with additional debris |
| 🏢 Small Commercial | Up to 60,000 L | ✅ Entry-level commercial use |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size pool will this filter handle?
A: The ZZFBS500 is suitable for pools up to 60,000-80,000 litres. With its 10m³/hr flow rate, it will turn over a 60,000 litre pool in 6 hours, or an 80,000 litre pool in 8 hours.
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, typically every 1-2 weeks during the swimming season depending on pool usage and debris levels.
Q: What filter media should I use?
A: The filter is designed for 0.5-0.7mm (16/30 grade) silica sand, requiring approximately 75kg. You can alternatively use glass media (use 20% less by weight) or ZeoSand for improved filtration performance.
Q: How long does the filter media last?
A: Silica sand typically lasts 3-5 years with proper maintenance. Glass media can last 10+ years. Annual cleaning with a filter cleaner product helps extend media life.
Q: What pump do I need with this filter?
A: Match with a pump delivering 8-10m³/hr for optimal performance. A 0.5HP to 0.75HP pump is typically suitable. Never exceed the filter’s maximum flow rate of 10m³/hr.
Q: Is the valve included?
A: Yes, the ZZFBS500 comes complete with a 6-way side mount multiport valve, pressure gauge, and drain valve ready for installation.
Q: What is the working pressure limit?
A: The maximum working pressure is 2 kg/cm² (28.4 PSI). Normal operating pressure should be around 0.8-1.3 kg/cm².
Q: Can I use this filter with a salt chlorinator?
A: Yes, the HDPE construction is resistant to the slightly higher salt levels found in salt-chlorinated pools.
Q: What warranty is included?
A: Please contact Parts4Tubs for full warranty terms and conditions.
📥 Downloads & Resources
📄 Installation Manual (EN/ES/FR) – Complete installation and operating instructions
🏆 Why Choose the ZZFBS500 Brasil Filter
- ✅ High-Capacity Filtration – 10m³/hr flow rate handles larger pools efficiently
- ✅ Durable HDPE Construction – Blow-moulded design ensures long service life
- ✅ Complete Package – Arrives ready to install with valve, gauge, and drain
- ✅ Flexible Installation – Side mount valve suits various equipment room layouts
- ✅ Easy Maintenance – 6-way valve simplifies all filtration operations
- ✅ Chemical & UV Resistant – Withstands outdoor conditions year after year
- ✅ Excellent Value – Professional performance at an attractive price point
- ✅ Proven Reliability – Brasil series trusted by UK pool owners
🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
- ✅ UK-based company with local customer support
- ✅ Fast UK mainland delivery
- ✅ Expert advice from pool and spa specialists
- ✅ Competitive pricing on quality equipment
- ✅ Full manufacturer warranty support
- ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
- ✅ Compatible filter media and spare parts available
- ✅ Pumps, chemicals, and accessories also stocked
✨ Summary
The ZZFBS500 Brasil 500mm (20″) Side Mount Sand Filter delivers reliable, high-capacity filtration for pools up to 80,000 litres. With its robust HDPE construction, 10m³/hr flow rate, and complete package including 6-way valve and pressure gauge, this filter offers exceptional value for larger residential and small commercial pool installations. Easy to install, simple to maintain, and built to last – order yours today for crystal clear pool water all season long.



