Sand Filter Spec Question

[simsjim]

Hello All

I am thinking of replacing my ancient Sandmaster filter with a slightly larger new filter.

I am looking at Pentair filters (to match my planned upgrade to a Pentair Superflo 1 HP pump) Does anyone have any opinions about the two Top Mount filter lines offered by Pentair? They offer Tagleus and Sand Dollar.

I am looking at either the Taglius TA 60 or the Sand Dollar SD 60.

some stats: area/ diameter/ sand#/ Flow Rate GPM/ TO@8 hrs
Tagleus : 3.1 / 24.5 / 325 / 60 / 28000
Sand Dollar : 2.3 / 22 / 200 / 60 / 28800

So, I guess I wonder, what are the differences going to give in performance, etc. Also, although I am familiar with top mount, is there a compelling reason to switch to side-mount?

Some pool stats
IG Vinyl 12K gallon
1.5" plumbing
pool only, no spa

Any advice would be welcomed!

Thanks,
J

[thepoolman1]

The TA60D is a more robust filter than the San Dollar. I have installed both and prefer the TA60D. Pentair's web-site states that the Sand Dollar has a maximum operating pressure rating of 35psi. The TA60D's rating is 50 psi, as is the case of virtually every other filter made.

The side-mount filters are a step up from the top-mount design. They usually have 2" plumbing internally and larger laterals. The tanks are usually thicker, also.

For your pool I would recommend the TA60D. Excellent filter. If you want to use the Sand Dollar, get the SD80.

[simsjim]

Pentair's web-site states that the Sand Dollar has a maximum operating pressure rating of 35psi. The TA60D's rating is 50 psi, as is the case of virtually every other filter made.

poolman1 - Thanks for pointing that out. I would be more inclined to go with a higher max PSI as well. I am renewing an old (probably patchwork) job that was done before I owned the pool. It's an old Hayward 3/4 HP Superpump feeding an 18" Sandmaster 100# Top Mount sand filter. This configuration keeps the water somewhat clear - if there is NO batherload, but once a few people jump in, cloudy water within an hour. So essentailly its a useless configuration.

I have 1.5 plumbing for my pool, would the sidemount with 2" plumbing be cause for concern? I would think I could just attach my 1.5" plumbing to the mulit-port by using some bushings, but just wanted to be sure.

Thanks!

[CanuckPool]

I have the SD80 on my 14,000 Gal IG pool mated with a pentair 1.5 Hp superflo. So far so good. It hangs around 16 PSI all summer. its a big filter that could have gone the entire summer season with maybe 1 backwash... now granted we dont have any tree/leaf problem and minimum to light medium bather load, but so far we are happy.

[ScottS]

Until a few weeks ago I would have recommended the Sand Dollar system because I'm running the SD60 on my 24' AG. Two weeks ago the tank sprung a leak on the bottom in one of the seams. Pentair told me I was out of luck because they only have a one year warranty.

I am aggravated with Pentair since there was not one reason for that tank to crack. I live in Southern Louisiana where the pool is running all year so the tank didn't freeze.
It might have split due to the fact that they match it with a 1.5HP pump which I had because I didn't know any better 2 years back.

My tank problem is probably an isolated issue but I wish the company would at least have some decency to stand behind their product. The tank is clearly defective.

Oh well I'm replacing the whole unit and going with a 2 speed 1hp pump so I should be better off anyway.

Good luck with the upgrade. BTW is the Pentair pump a 2 speed pump? If not, and since you are going to be getting another, it would probably be a wise choice. Many around here praise the 2 speed pumps.

[CanuckPool]

Our PB says that because we have a pentair heater/pump/filter we are covered for 3 years as oppose to 1.