Suggestions on pump placement (Photos Included)

Hi all,

P00l n00b here, obviously, but I'm seeking advice for a pool my parents just installed. Above ground, my mom wanted them to dig 18" down to make their level surface (not sure why, but at this point, it's done). My concerns at the moment are: 1) how will water runoff from heavy rains affect the pool and 2) does the pump have to be where it is? The installer stated it must not be higher than where it is, which I don't believe. I'd like to bring it up to the normal ground height and make a rockbed for it.

Photos here: https://onedrive.live.com/redir?resi...t=folder%2cJPG

All suggestions are welcome!

It's very hard to see the pump as the step ladder is in front of it. But where I live that would absolutely not be code. Our code calls for the pump to be at least 5' away from the pool, minimum (or is it 6'? Mine is compliant either way), and for the cord to be no longer than 3' long.

I'm not the expert on pumps but I see no reason the pump couldn't be on the ground level. In-ground pool pumps are normally above the top of the water. Moving the pump and filter, especially the pump, further away from the pool would be something I would do immediately. I just keep imagining water falling on the pump and arcing into the pool water....HOPEFULLY your GFI would prevent a tragedy--you DO have a GFI for the pump, don't you?

I can't see the pump in the photo, but, most above ground pumps must be below the waterline. You'd need something more stable than just a rock bed under the pump / filter - large patio blocks maybe on top of rock? The pool may last longer if you install a barrier (heavy plastic sheeting) between the pool and backfill material.

CarlD's observation about code applies in my town as well.

CarlD,

Thanks for the quick response! The electric line is GFI as my family did that; we let the installers set it all up, though. I live in OH, but have no idea what code requirements are here. But we are looking to move it up and back, so it's good to hear some reassurance!