Are you a pool owner looking to understand the ins and outs of your inground pool’s plumbing system? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explain how inground pool plumbing works and what you need to know for a functional plumbing system.
From an overview of the system to its components and how to maintain it, we’ll cover it all.
You’ll even learn about the benefits of having a well-functioning plumbing system.
So, let’s dive in and get started!
Short Answer
Inground pool plumbing works by connecting the pool’s main drain, skimmer and returns to the pump, filter, and heater through a series of pipes.
Water is drawn from the pool through the skimmer, which catches leaves and debris, and then passes through the pump.
The water is then filtered, heated, and returned back to the pool through the returns.
Valves are used to control the flow of water through each section of the system, allowing for precise control of the circulation and filtration process.
Overview of Inground Pool Plumbing System
Installing an inground pool requires a complex plumbing system in order to ensure proper water flow and filtration.
The plumbing system is designed to create a loop of water flow- water is drawn from the pool, filtered, heated, and then returned to the pool.
The main components of the inground pool plumbing system include the suction side, the return side, and the circulation pump.
The suction side is responsible for drawing water from the pool, pushing it through the filter and heater, and then sending it on its way back to the pool.
Suction side components include the skimmer, which skims the surface of the pool for debris; the main drain, which draws water from the bottom of the pool and sends it to the pump; and the vacuum port, which allows for manual cleaning of the pool.
The return side is responsible for returning the filtered and heated water back to the pool.
It is composed of the return line, which moves the water from the filter and heater back to the pool, and the jet line, which creates the necessary pressure to move the water back into the pool.
The circulation pump is essential for ensuring that the water is properly circulated throughout the pool.
The pump draws water from the skimmer and main drain and sends it through the filter and heater before returning it back to the pool.
The pump also helps to keep the pools chemicals balanced, by circulating the water and allowing the chemicals to disperse evenly throughout the pool.
In order for the inground pool plumbing system to function properly, all of these components must be properly connected and maintained.
This includes making sure the pump is the correct size and power for the size of the pool, that all of the pipes are connected properly, and that all of the valves are open and working properly.
Additionally, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain the filter, heater, and circulation pump, to ensure that the pool is functioning properly and that the water is clean and safe.
Components of Inground Pool Plumbing System
When it comes to inground pool plumbing, there are three primary components that must be properly connected and maintained for the system to function properly.
These components include the suction side, return side, and circulation pump.
The suction side of the system is responsible for drawing water from the pool and pushing it through the filter and heater.
This is done by connecting the suction side of the pump to the skimmer and main drain.
The skimmer is responsible for drawing in the surface water from the pool, while the main drain is responsible for drawing in water from the bottom of the pool.
This water is then pushed through the suction side of the pump and into the filter and heater.
The return side of the system is responsible for returning the filtered and heated water back to the pool.
This is done by connecting the return side of the pump to the return inlet and the water jets.
The return inlet is responsible for returning the filtered and heated water back to the pool, while the water jets are responsible for creating a stream of water that flows across the pool surface and helps to keep the pool clean.
Lastly, the circulation pump is responsible for ensuring the water is properly circulated throughout the pool.
This is done by connecting the circulation pump to the pool filter, heater, and water jets.
The circulation pump helps to keep the water circulating and prevents water from becoming stagnant.
In order for an inground pools plumbing system to function properly, all of these components must be properly connected and maintained.
This includes regularly checking the skimmer and main drain for any debris that might be blocking the water flow and ensuring the circulation pump is running efficiently.
Additionally, its important to check all the connections and joints for any signs of leakage or damage.
By following these steps, you can ensure your inground pools plumbing system is functioning properly.
How the Suction Side Works
The suction side of inground pool plumbing is responsible for drawing water from the pool and pushing it through the filter and heater.
This is done by a suction line, which is a long tube that runs from the pool to the pump.
The suction line is connected to the skimmer and main drains of the pool, which are located on the side of the pool.
The skimmer and main drains draw in the water from the surface and the bottom of the pool, respectively.
The suction line then carries the water to the pump, which is usually located nearby the pool.
The pump then pushes the water through the filter, which removes dirt and debris from the water, and then through the heater, which warms the water.
From the heater, the suction side carries the now-filtered and heated water back to the pool through the return line.
The return line runs from the heater to the side of the pool, where it is connected to the pool return.
The pool return then pushes the water back into the pool.
The suction side is an important component of inground pool plumbing, as it is responsible for drawing in and pushing out the water from the pool.
The pump and filter also help to ensure the water is clean and free of contaminants, which is essential for a healthy and safe swimming experience.
It is important to keep the suction side of the pool’s plumbing system in good working order, as any dysfunction could lead to water contamination and other health hazards.
How the Return Side Works
The return side of the inground pool plumbing system is responsible for returning the filtered and heated water back to the pool.
This is an important part of the plumbing system because it ensures that the water is properly circulated throughout the pool, creating a healthy and balanced environment.
The return side works by using a return line, which is usually made of PVC pipe.
This pipe is connected to the circulation pump, which is located outside of the pool.
The pump then draws the filtered and heated water from the pool and sends it back through the return line to the pool.
The return line may also be connected to other components such as the heater, a skimmer, or a chemical injector, depending on the size and complexity of the pool.
The return side also includes a series of check valves and backflow preventers, which are designed to keep the water from flowing back into the pump and other components.
This is important for preventing damage to the pump and other components, as well as ensuring that the water is properly circulated throughout the pool.
In addition, the return side may also be connected to other components such as lights and fountain jets, which can add a unique and visually appealing element to the pool.
By connecting the return line to these components, the water is able to be circulated and the lights and jets are able to be powered.
Overall, the return side of the pool plumbing system is essential for keeping the pool functioning correctly.
It is responsible for returning the filtered and heated water back to the pool, as well as powering other components such as lights and fountain jets.
It is important to ensure that the return line is properly connected and maintained in order to keep the pool functioning correctly.
How the Circulation Pump Works
The circulation pump is the heart of the inground pool’s plumbing system, as it is responsible for ensuring that the water is properly circulated throughout the entire pool.
This pump typically utilizes an impeller to rotate at a high speed and draw water from the suction side.
The water is then pushed through the filter and heater before being returned to the pool on the return side.
This helps maintain the proper balance of pH levels, chlorine, and other chemicals to keep the pool clean and safe for swimming.
In order to ensure that the circulation pump is functioning properly, it should be inspected and maintained regularly.
This can involve cleaning the filter, checking the impeller for signs of wear and tear, and replacing the pump if necessary.
Additionally, the pump should be routinely checked for any leaks, as this can cause a decrease in water pressure, which can lead to improper circulation and filtration.
By understanding how the circulation pump works, you can ensure that your inground pools plumbing system is functioning properly and that your pool is safe and enjoyable to swim in.
With proper maintenance, you can make sure your pool is always functioning optimally and ready for a dip!
Connecting and Maintaining the Plumbing System
Installing an inground pool requires a complex plumbing system in order to ensure proper water flow and filtration. This system consists of three primary components: the suction side, the return side and the circulation pump. It is important to ensure that each of these components is properly connected and maintained in order to ensure the pool is functioning properly.
Connecting the plumbing system for an inground pool is a complex task that should only be attempted by a qualified professional.
The suction side is responsible for drawing water from the pool and pushing it through the filter and heater.
This requires a series of pipes and valves to be connected to the pool and the filter and heater.
The return side is responsible for returning the filtered and heated water back to the pool.
This side of the plumbing system is typically connected to the suction side using a series of pipes, valves and return jets.
The circulation pump is connected to the suction and return sides in order to ensure the water is properly circulated throughout the pool.
Once the plumbing system is installed, it is important to maintain it in order to ensure the pool is functioning properly.
This involves regularly inspecting the pipes and valves to ensure they are not leaking or blocked.
It is also important to regularly check the filter and heater to ensure they are working correctly.
Additionally, the circulation pump should be inspected regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
If any of these components are not functioning properly, it is important to repair or replace them in order to ensure the pool is functioning properly.
Benefits of a Functional Plumbing System
Having a functional and properly working inground pool plumbing system is essential for ensuring your pool is safe and enjoyable for all who use it.
With a properly functioning system, you can rest assured that your pool is circulating clean and filtered water and that all of the components are working together to keep your pool running smoothly.
Additionally, having a well-maintained plumbing system can help extend the life of your pool, as it will be less likely to suffer from any major plumbing issues.
Furthermore, having a properly functioning plumbing system will also help to reduce energy costs, as the system will be more efficient and require less energy to operate.
By having a properly functioning plumbing system, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable swimming experience that is both enjoyable and cost-effective.
Final Thoughts
Having a functional inground pool plumbing system is essential for a safe and enjoyable pool experience.
Now that you understand the components of the system and how they work together, you’ll be better equipped to connect and maintain it properly.
With the right knowledge and care, you can keep your pool running smoothly and safely for years to come.