1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your Bestway Flowclear 58486 Sand Filter Pump. This pump is designed for use with above-ground swimming pools to ensure clean and clear water. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and operation, and keep it for future reference.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or death.
- Always disconnect the pump from the power supply before performing any maintenance or cleaning.
- The pump must be installed on a solid, level surface.
- Do not operate the pump if the power cord or plug is damaged.
- Keep children away from the pump and pool area during operation.
- Ensure all electrical connections are made by a qualified electrician and comply with local regulations.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
- The pump is designed for filtering pool water only. Do not use it for other liquids.
- Model number for safety reference: 58486.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present and undamaged. If any parts are missing or damaged, do not attempt to assemble or operate the pump. Contact Bestway customer service for assistance.
Figure 3.1: Overview of Bestway Flowclear 58486 Sand Filter Pump components. This image displays the main pump unit, the sand filter tank, the multi-port valve, connection hoses, and various adapters and seals required for assembly.
- Sand Filter Tank
- Pump Unit with Motor
- Multi-Port Valve
- Pressure Gauge
- Hoses and Clamps
- Connectors and Adapters
- Base for Pump and Tank
- Instruction Manual (this document)
4. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps carefully to set up your sand filter pump. Ensure the pump is placed on a stable, level surface, away from the pool edge, and protected from direct sunlight and rain.
- Positioning the Pump: Place the pump on a firm, level surface. The pump should be located at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) from the pool.
- Assembling the Base: Attach the pump and filter tank to the provided base according to the diagrams in the manual.
- Filling the Filter Tank: Remove the multi-port valve. Fill the filter tank with the recommended amount and type of filter sand (not included). Ensure the standpipe is centered during this process.
- Attaching the Multi-Port Valve: Securely attach the multi-port valve to the top of the filter tank. Ensure all seals are correctly seated.
- Connecting Hoses: Connect the hoses from the pump to the pool's inlet and outlet fittings. The "INLET" port on the pump connects to the pool's skimmer/suction line, and the "RETURN" port on the multi-port valve connects to the pool's return line.
- Electrical Connection: Connect the pump to a grounded electrical outlet. Ensure the power supply matches the pump's requirements. Do not use extension cords.
Figure 4.1: Detail of the pump unit, showing the power switch and hose connections. This image highlights the electrical connection point and the general design of the pump's motor housing.
Figure 4.2: The sand filter pump in operation next to an above-ground pool. A person is shown adjusting the multi-port valve, demonstrating the typical setup with hoses connected to the pool.
5. Operating Instructions
Before starting the pump, ensure the pool is filled with water and all connections are secure. Never operate the pump dry.
5.1 Multi-Port Valve Functions
The multi-port valve has several settings for different operations:
- FILTER: For normal filtering of pool water. Water flows through the sand, is filtered, and returns to the pool.
- BACKWASH: For cleaning the filter sand. Water flows in reverse through the sand, flushing debris out through the waste port.
- RINSE: Used after backwashing to flush out any remaining dirty water from the filter before returning to FILTER mode.
- WASTE/DRAIN: For bypassing the filter and sending water directly out the waste port, useful for lowering pool water level or vacuuming heavy debris directly to waste.
- RECIRCULATE: For circulating pool water without filtering it, useful for distributing chemicals.
- CLOSED: Shuts off all flow to the filter and pump. Never operate the pump with the valve in the CLOSED position.
To change valve settings, ALWAYS turn off the pump first.
5.2 Starting the Pump
- Ensure the multi-port valve is set to FILTER.
- Open all necessary valves on the pool's plumbing system to allow water flow to and from the pump.
- Plug in the pump and turn on the power switch.
- Check the pressure gauge. A rising pressure indicates the filter is collecting debris and may require backwashing soon.
Figure 5.1: The pressure gauge, indicating the internal pressure of the filter system. Monitoring this gauge is crucial for determining when maintenance like backwashing is needed.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your sand filter pump.
6.1 Backwashing the Filter
Backwash the filter when the pressure gauge reading is 0.2-0.3 bar (3-5 psi) above the initial clean filter reading, or when pool water flow is noticeably reduced.
- Turn off the pump.
- Set the multi-port valve to BACKWASH.
- Turn on the pump. Run for approximately 2-3 minutes, or until the water flowing out of the waste port is clear.
- Turn off the pump.
- Set the multi-port valve to RINSE.
- Turn on the pump. Run for 30-60 seconds to flush out any remaining dirty water.
- Turn off the pump.
- Set the multi-port valve back to FILTER.
- Turn on the pump to resume normal filtration.
6.2 Sand Replacement
Filter sand typically needs to be replaced every 3-5 years, depending on usage and water quality. Refer to the specific sand type recommendations for your model.
6.3 Winterization
Before winter, drain all water from the pump, hoses, and filter tank. Store the pump and multi-port valve in a dry, frost-free location. Remove and clean the filter sand if necessary.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your sand filter pump.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pump not starting | No power, tripped breaker, motor issue | Check power connection, reset breaker, contact qualified technician |
| Low water flow | Clogged skimmer/strainer, dirty filter sand, air in system | Clean skimmer basket, backwash filter, check for air leaks in hoses |
| Water leaking from pump/valve | Loose connections, damaged O-rings/seals, cracked housing | Tighten connections, inspect and replace O-rings/seals, contact Bestway support for cracked parts |
| High pressure gauge reading | Dirty filter sand | Perform backwash and rinse cycle |
| Water not clearing | Insufficient filtration time, improper chemical balance, dirty filter | Increase filtration time, test and adjust pool chemicals, backwash filter |
8. Specifications
- Model: Bestway Flowclear 58486
- Flow Rate: 9,800 L/H (2600 gal/hr)
- Material: PVC
- Power Source: AC/DC
- Manufacturer: Bestway Italia S.r.l.
- ASIN: B07F23KF5N
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or to order replacement parts, please contact Bestway customer service. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
You can find more information and contact details on the official Bestway website or through your retailer.
Note: Product specifications are subject to change without notice.
