How to stop a constantly clogging impeller.

Hello all,I have a client with a water feature that is constantly getting leaves stuck in the impeller. The water feature has 2 drains plumbed 3", and no skimmer. It has about a 30 foot run to the equipment. At the equipment is a 3/4 HP Max-E-Glas. The basket is new and no cracks or larger than normal openings. This is a heavily landscaped property, with a mesquite tree over hanging the feature. What makes this project interesting is that there is a poured concrete slab, which makes digging a hole for a leaf catcher impossible. Originally we purchased an A&A leaf catcher, but this was simply too large to have standing at the equipment. I was wondering if anybody was aware of a smaller size leaf canister (with mesh bag), that we would be able to plumb at the poured equipment pad. or any other suggestions that you may have to help prevent these tiny leaves from getting into the pump. Any and all suggestions will be appreciated, and I will answer any further questions that you may have.Thanks in advance,Scott

Replies

Myles McMorrow January 3, 2012 at 8:42am

Try 1 or 2 Jandy energy filters from that Rayvac cleaner, I have used them before http://www.polytecpools.com/images/cleaners_jandy_energy.jpg
Norman Tyree January 3, 2012 at 7:01am

Yes not to hard to fix install a small Cartridge Filter say about 50sq ft in front of the pump.
Tal Millican December 31, 2011 at 5:30pm

Scott:

Have you seen the Z-Pumper video here? Or got to www.youtube.com/Z-Pumper and check it out. It's available through Pool Service products at: toolsforpools.com

-TM
Brian Brennan November 29, 2011 at 1:37pm

If it's a Max-E-Glas I, the screen that is sold for a rainbow floating feeder can be trimmed. It's tapered. I trim it to size by cutting the large end of the taper. It fits really well if you do that. On a Max-E-Glas II, I trim the small end of the taper. Due to its longer basket, it doesn't fit quite as well. Sometimes it is hard to find that screen, but it is available. Also, be sure to use the fine screened pump basket as well as the floater screen.

Brian Brennan

QuickLeakCheck.com

Carlsbad, CA
Kevin Misley January 30, 2011 at 2:29pm

The supply houses carry a nylon screen that fits over the skimmer basket. My one supplier has a couple called the Ultra Screen and Filter Saver.

Yes, nylon stockings may do the trick but I don't think it looks professional using them. These brands are pre-packaged for this specific use. Good counter item at a store or stock up service trucks.

They are great where there are skims in planting beds or if needly type trees are in proximity.
Iain Middleton January 30, 2011 at 5:10am

get a splash mat for the whole thing and set just under waterlevel....
Noel Valade April 15, 2010 at 5:44am

Scott,

Are the leaves getting in when the Pump basket is taken out and dumped? I have had this happen when in the past I've sent Emp. to due maintenance on Heavy Landscaped Properties.

Like Dennis said I have also seen Guys use Laides Nylon Stockings.

NV
Dennis Mino April 14, 2010 at 3:37pm

No joke. Try placing a women's nylon stocking over the basket. There are also strainer mesh inserts.