1. Important Safety Instructions
Read and follow all instructions before installing and using this product. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or death.
- CAUTION: This Pump Has Been Evaluated for Use With Water Only.
- WARNING: Risk of electric shock – Please don't plug into power while standing on a wet or damp surface.
- WARNING: To reduce risk of electric shock, connect only to a properly grounded grounding-type receptacle.
- WARNING: To reduce risk of electric shock, see instruction manual for proper installation.
- WARNING: To Reduce The Risk Of Electric Shock, Install Only On A Circuit Protected By A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
- Always disconnect power to the pump before performing any service or maintenance.
- Ensure all connections are secure and leak-free before operating the pump.
- Do not operate the pump if it has been damaged in any way.
Image: Close-up of the control panel displaying important safety warnings regarding electrical shock and proper grounding.
2. Product Overview
The FOTING 18" Sand Filter Pump is designed for above-ground pools, offering efficient water filtration with a powerful 1/2 HP motor and a 6-way multi-port valve. It features an intelligent timing system for convenient operation and is suitable for pools up to 8000 gallons.
Image: The FOTING 18" Sand Filter Pump system, including the sand tank, pump, multi-port valve, pressure gauge, and various connection accessories.
Image: Infographic highlighting key features: 5000 GPH large flow, water capacity of 2800-20000 gallons, 18-inch/150 lbs sand capacity, 6 functions, and built-in timer control.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present and undamaged before beginning assembly.
- User manual (this document)
- Warranty Card
- Pressure Gauge
- Drain Piece
- Pair of Flange Clamps
- O-ring
- Allen Wrench
- NPT 1-1/2 Female Connectors
- Sealing Tape
- Hose Clamps
- Sand Cover
- Sylphon Bellows
- Filter Assembly
- Base
- Valve Head Assembly
- Cylinder
- Screws & Nuts
Image: A visual representation of the sand filter pump with a detailed list of included components and dimensions.
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your sand filter pump. Refer to the diagrams for visual guidance.
4.1 Assembly Steps
- Position the Base and Cylinder: Place the base on a firm, level surface. Secure the filter cylinder onto the base.
- Add Filter Media: Carefully add the specified amount of filter sand (or filter balls) into the cylinder. Ensure the standpipe is centered during this process.
- Install Valve Head: Attach the 6-way valve head assembly to the top of the filter cylinder. Ensure the O-ring is properly seated and secure with the flange clamps.
- Connect Pump: Connect the pump to the filter cylinder using the provided hoses and connectors. Ensure all connections are tight and sealed with sealing tape where necessary.
- Install Pressure Gauge: Screw the pressure gauge into the designated port on the valve head.
- Connect to Pool: Connect the pump's intake and return lines to your above-ground pool's plumbing. Use the 1-1/2" PVC hose connectors and hose clamps for secure connections.
- Fill with Water: Before starting the pump, ensure the pool is filled with water and the pump is primed according to the pump's specific instructions to prevent dry running.
Image: Diagram illustrating the 1-1/2" inch pump hose connectors and hose adapter for connecting the filter pump to an above-ground pool.
5. Operating Instructions
The FOTING sand filter pump features a 6-way multi-port valve and an intelligent timing system for various operational modes.
5.1 6-Way Multi-Port Valve Functions
Always turn off the pump before changing the valve position to prevent damage.
- FILTER: Normal filtering mode. Water passes through the sand and returns to the pool.
- BACKWASH: Reverses water flow through the filter to clean the sand bed. Water is discharged to waste.
- RINSE: Used after backwashing to flush out any remaining debris from the valve and sand bed before returning to FILTER mode. Water is discharged to waste.
- WASTE: Bypasses the filter and sends water directly out to waste. Useful for vacuuming heavy debris or lowering pool water level.
- CLOSED: Stops all water flow to the filter. Never use while the pump is running.
- RECIRCULATE: Bypasses the filter and circulates water directly back to the pool. Useful for mixing chemicals without filtering.
Image: A person adjusting the 6-way valve, with icons depicting the six functions: Filter, Rinse, Winter, Waste, Backwash, and Closed.
Image: Detailed explanation of each of the 6-way valve functions: Filter, Backwash, Rinse, Waste, Closed, and Recirculate.
5.2 Intelligent Timing System
The pump features a 24-hour dual-mode intelligent timing system for automated operation.
- Single Cycle Mode: The pump operates for a set duration once within a 24-hour period.
- Continuous Cycle Mode: The pump operates for a set duration, then pauses for a set duration, repeating this cycle continuously.
Refer to the control panel instructions for setting specific timing parameters.
Image: A visual representation of the digital display for the 24-hour dual-mode intelligent timing system, showing options for Single Cycle Mode and Continuous Cycle Mode.
Image: Infographic detailing the two timing modes: Single Cycle Mode and Continuous Cycle Mode, with icons for 24-hour operation, power, and timer settings.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your sand filter pump.
6.1 Backwashing and Rinsing
Backwash the filter when the pressure gauge reading is 8-10 PSI above its clean operating pressure, or when water flow to the pool decreases significantly.
- Turn off the pump.
- Set the 6-way valve to BACKWASH.
- Turn on the pump and run until the water in the sight glass (if available) runs clear (typically 2-3 minutes).
- Turn off the pump.
- Set the 6-way valve to RINSE.
- Turn on the pump and run for 30-60 seconds.
- Turn off the pump.
- Set the 6-way valve back to FILTER.
- Turn on the pump to resume normal filtration.
6.2 Filter Basket Cleaning
Periodically inspect and clean the pump's filter basket to remove large debris that could impede flow.
- Turn off the pump and disconnect power.
- Close any necessary valves to prevent water flow from the pool.
- Remove the pump lid and lift out the filter basket.
- Empty and rinse the basket thoroughly.
- Replace the basket and secure the pump lid.
- Reopen valves and restore power.
Image: A composite image showing the control panel for timing, the filter basket for debris collection, the 6-way valve for function selection, and the manometer for pressure monitoring.
Image: A close-up view of the filter basket, designed to preliminarily filter debris and is easy to disassemble for cleaning.
Image: A close-up view of the pressure gauge, used to check the water pressure within the filter cylinder.
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 GFCI; motor issue | Check power connection; reset GFCI; consult a qualified technician. |
| Low water flow | Clogged skimmer/pump basket; dirty filter sand; air leak in suction line | Clean baskets; backwash/rinse filter; check all connections for leaks. |
| Cloudy pool water | Insufficient filtration time; dirty filter sand; improper chemical balance | Increase filtration time; backwash/rinse filter; test and adjust pool chemistry. |
| Water leaking from pump/filter | Loose connections; damaged O-rings/gaskets; cracked housing | Tighten connections; inspect and replace O-rings/gaskets; contact support for severe damage. |
| High pressure gauge reading | Dirty filter sand; restricted return line | Backwash and rinse the filter; check return lines for obstructions. |
8. Specifications
- Manufacturer: FOTING
- Model: 18" Sand Filter Pump
- System Flow Rate: 5000 GPH (Gallons Per Hour)
- Horsepower: 1/2 HP
- Filter Tank Size: 18 inches
- Sand Capacity: 150 lbs
- Filter Ball Capacity: 4.6 lbs
- Valve Type: 6-Way Multi-Port Valve
- Suitable Pool Capacity: Up to 8000 GAL (or 2800-20000 GAL depending on specific model variant)
- Timing System: 24-Hour Dual-Mode Intelligent Timing
- ASIN: B0FHH1RLW6
- Date First Available: July 14, 2025
Image: Infographic displaying key specifications including system flow rate, valve type, pool capacity, tank size, and sand/filter ball capacity.
9. Warranty and Support
This product includes a Warranty Card. Please refer to the card for specific warranty terms and conditions. For technical support or inquiries, please contact FOTING customer service through the retailer where the product was purchased.
