Polaris Forza PAG100 Above-Ground Pool Pump User Manual

Polaris Forza PAG100 Above-Ground Pool Pump User Manual

WARNING

FOR YOUR SAFETY
This product must be installed and serviced by a contractor who is licensed and qualified in pool equipment by the jurisdiction in which the product will be installed where such state/ provincial or local requirements exist. The maintainer must be a professional with sufficient experience in pool equipment installation and maintenance so that all of the instructions in this manual can be followed exactly.

Before installing this product, read and follow all warning notices and instructions that accompany this product. Failure to follow warning notices and instructions may result in property damage, personal injury, or death. Improper installation and/or operation may void the warranty. Improper installation and/or operation can create unwanted electrical hazards which can cause serious injury, property damage, or death.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician or qualified pool service professional and conform to all national, state, and local codes. When installing and using this electrical equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:

RISK OF SUCTION ENTRAPMENT HAZARD, WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED, CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. Do not block pump suction, as this can cause severe injury or death. Do not use this pump for wading pools, shallow pools, or spas containing bottom drains. Suction outlet (drain) assemblies and their covers must be certified to the latest published edition of ANSI®/ASME® A112.19.8, or its successor standard, ANSI/APSP-16.

• To reduce the risk of injury, do not permit children to use this product. All components in the system, such as pumps, filters, and heaters, etc., shall be positioned so as to prevent their being used as a means of access to the pool by young children.
• To reduce the risk of property damage or injury, do not attempt to change the backwash (multi-port, slide, or full flow) valve position with the pump running.
• Polaris pumps are powered by a high-voltage electric motor and must be installed by a licensed or certified electrician or a qualified swimming pool service technician

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, FIRE, PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH.

Connect only to a grounding-type receptacle that is protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) (Canada: CLASS A). Contact a qualified electrician if you cannot verify that the circuit is protected by a GFCI. Make sure such a GFCI should be provided by the installer and should be tested on a routine basis. To test the GFCI, push the test button. The GFCI should interrupt power. Push the reset button. Power should be restored. If the GFCI fails to operate in this manner, the GFCI is defective. If the GFCI interrupts power to the pump without the test button being pushed, a ground current is flowing, indicating the possibility of electrical shock.

Do not use the pump. Disconnect the pump and have the problem corrected by a qualified service representative before using it. Due to the potential risk of fire, electric shock, or injuries to persons, Polaris pumps must be installed in accordance with the National Electrical Code® (NEC®), Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), all local electrical and safety codes, and the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA®). Copies of the NEC may be ordered from the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) online at www.nfpa.org or call 617-770-3000, or contact your local government inspection agency.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Pump suction is hazardous and can trap and drown or disembowel bathers. Do not use or operate swimming pools, spas, or hot tubs if a suction outlet cover is missing, broken, or loose. The following guidelines provide information for pump installation that minimizes the risk of injury to users of pools, spas, and hot tubs:

Entrapment Protection 
The pump suction system must provide protection against the hazards of suction entrapment.

Suction Outlet Covers 
All suction outlets must have correctly installed, screw-fastened covers in place. All suction outlet (drain) covers must be maintained. Drain covers must be listed/certified to the latest version of ANSI®/ASME® A112.19.8 or its successor standard, ANSI/APSP-16. They must be replaced if cracked, broken, or missing.

Number of Suction Outlets Per Pump
When outlets are small enough to be blocked by a person, provide at least two (2) hydraulically-balanced main drains, with covers, as suction outlets for each circulating pump suction line. The centers of the main drains (suction outlets) on any one (1) suction line must be at least three (3) feet apart, center to center. See Figure 1. The system must be built to include at least two (2) suction outlets (drains) connected to the pump whenever the pump is running. However, if two (2) main drains run into a single suction line, the single suction line may be equipped with a valve that will shut off both main drains from the pump. The system shall be constructed such that it shall not allow for separate or independent shutoff or isolation of each drain.

Water Velocity

The maximum water velocity through the suction fitting or cover for any suction outlet must be 1.5 feet per second unless the outlet complies with the latest version of ANSI/ASME A112.19.8 or its successor standard, ANSI/APSP-16, the standard for Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs.

In any case, do not exceed the suction fitting’s maximum designed flow rate. If 100% of the pump’s flow comes from the main drain system, the maximum water velocity in the pump suction hydraulic system must be six (6) feet per second or less, even if one (1) main drain (suction outlet) is completely blocked. The flow through the remaining main drain(s) must comply with the latest version of ANSI/ASME A112.19.8 or its successor standard, ANSI/APSP-16, the standard for Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs.

Testing and Certification
Suction outlet covers must have been tested by a nationally recognized testing laboratory and found to comply with the latest version of ANSI/ASME A112.19.8 or its successor standard, ANSI/ APSP-16, the standard for Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs.

Fittings
Fittings restrict flow; for best efficiency use the fewest possible fittings (but at least two (2) suction outlets). Avoid fittings which could cause an air trap. Pool cleaner suction fittings must conform to applicable International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO®) standards.

Installation

Installation Location
The pump should be installed on a firm, level base or pad. When using a factory-supplied base ensure installation is level and vibration-free. The pump must be installed below the water line.

Although the pump is designed for outdoor use it is recommended that the installation consider the following:

• Drainage – away from the pump.
• Run off from eaves and sprinklers.
• Ventilation of pump motor.
• Access for future servicing and winterizing.
• Protection from the elements.
• Sun exposure.

Locate the pump as close to the pool as possible to reduce friction and increase efficiency. However, the pump must be a minimum of 6 ft (1.8 m) from the edge of the pool, or be separated by a permanent barrier. Position the pump and all components of the filtration system so they can NOT be used as a means of access to the pool by young children. In Canada, the minimum distance maintained from the edge of the pool and/or spa as noted above must be 3 meters (10 feet), as required by the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC, CSA C22.1). Swimming pool pumps located within 3 meters (10 feet) of the pool walls must be specifically approved for this purpose.

General Connections

Solvent Weld Connections Rigid or flexible PVC pipe can be used. Pipe ends should be clean and free of any flash caused by the cutting operation. Be sure that the proper adhesive is used on the type of pipe specified.

NOTE:
A primer will ensure that adhesive joints are superior. Suregard P-3000 has a purple tracer to qualify in areas where codes specify a primer must be used.

Threaded Connections
Use only Teflon tape or equivalent on threaded plumbing connections. Other pipe compounds may damage threads. We do not recommend the use of silicone or petroleum-based compounds. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN – HAND TIGHTEN PLUS ½ TURN IS SUFFICIENT.

Pump Plumbing

The suction pipe should be as large or larger than the discharge pipe. Avoid using a suction pipe that is smaller than the pump connection.

1. Keep the piping as straight and short as possible, and of suitable size.
2. Avoid connecting an elbow directly into the pump inlet (use a length of straight pipe to allow a proper entry for the water).
3. Support the pipe independently so that it places no strain on the pump.
4. It is recommended that valves be installed on the suction and outlet lines to prevent water from draining when servicing the pump. Never run the pump with valves closed.

Bonding and Grounding

In addition to being properly grounded in accordance with the requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC), or in Canada the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), the pump motor must be bonded to all metal parts of the swimming pool, spa, or hot tub structure and to all electrical components and equipment associated with the pool/spa water circulation system. The bonding must be accomplished by using a solid copper conductor, No. 8 AWG, or larger. In Canada No. 6 AWG or larger must be used. Bond the motor using the external bonding lug provided on the motor frame.

See Figure 8. National Electrical Code® (NEC®) requires bonding of the Pool Water. Where none of the bonded pool equipment, structures, or parts are in direct connection with the pool water; the pool water shall be in direct contact with an approved corrosion-resistant conductive surface that exposes not less than 5800 mm² (9 in²) of the surface area to the pool water at all times. The conductive surface shall be located where it is not exposed to physical damage or dislodgement during usual pool activities, and it shall be bonded in accordance with the bonding requirements of NEC Article 680. Refer to locally enforced codes for any additional bonding requirements.

Pump Start-Up

STOP PUMP and CLOSE suction and outlet valves.

1. Release all pressure from the pump and piping system.
2. Fill the strainer housing with water. NEVER operate the pump without water. Running the pump “dry” for any length of time can cause severe damage to both the pump, seals, and motor, and may void the warranty.
3. Inspect, clean, and only use silicone lubricant to prevent damaging the O-Ring.
4. Replace the strainer cover and hand-tight only.
5. Open all valves before starting the pump.
6. Release all air from the filter and piping system. See filter operating instructions.
7. With suction and outlet valves open and the pump located below the pool waterline, turn on the pump and allow the pump to prime.

If the pump does not prime within ten minutes, stop the motor and determine the cause. Ensure suction and discharge valves are open. See the troubleshooting guide for further instructions.

Startup

• If no flow is observed in five minutes, stop the motor and re-prime. If the pump fails to operate, check for air leaks. (Refer to the Troubleshooting section.)
• After about ten minutes of operation, check the return fittings for air bubbles. A continuous flow of air indicates leaks in the suction line. Locate and correct any leaks immediately.
• Keep the gate valve in the suction line fully open during operation. Should it be necessary to control the output, use a valve in the return line.

It is strongly recommended to install an on/off switch or timer. Without one the pump will run continuously. The pump should not be unplugged while under power as safety hazards such as sparks can occur.

Winterizing

1. Drain all water from the pump, system equipment, and piping.
2. Keep the motor covered and dry. Do not cover the pump with plastic, because this will create condensation that will damage the pump.
   After disconnecting the power and draining all water from the pump, it is recommended that the pump be removed from the plumbing and stored indoors
3. When the system is reopened for operation, have a qualified technician or electrician make sure all piping, valves, wiring, and equipment are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Pay close attention to the filter and electrical connections.
4. The pump must be primed prior to starting. Refer to Section 3.2, Startup.

Water Chemistry 

• A proper and consistent use of chemicals is necessary to maintain clean, sanitary water, prevent the spread of germ infection, and control the growth of algae which can spoil the appearance and enjoyment of your pool or spa.
• Chlorine is the most commonly used chemical to provide clean, sanitary water. Either dry or liquid chlorine (calcium or sodium hypochlorite) can be used which should be added daily as it is dissipated by dirt and germs as well as by the sun and wind.
• It is important that the correct level of acidity or alkalinity of the pool water be maintained. A desirable range is 7.2 – 7.4, with the pH of your pool at pH 7.0 being neutral. Readings above 7.0 are alkaline and below are acidic.

Pump Maintenance

WARNING
To avoid the risk of property damage, severe personal injury, and/or death, remove power to the pump by unplugging the pump motor before servicing the pump.

All maintenance must be performed with the breaker off.

• Motors are self-lubricating – no lubrication required.
• Clean the strainer basket.
• Visually inspect the motor for blockage of air vents on the motor shell. Remove any debris.
• Shaft seals may become worn and must be replaced if leakage is observed.

Strainer Basket Maintenance
To clean the pump:

1. Switch the power off.
2. Close valves in suction and return line.
3. Remove the strainer locking ring counterclockwise and remove the cover from the strainer basket.
4. Lift out the strainer basket.
5. Clean and replace the basket. Take care to seat the basket properly.
6. Clean the O-Ring and only use silicone lubricant to prevent damaging the O-Ring.
7. Clean O-Ring seats on the cover and strainer.
8. Refit cover and strainer – hand tighten only – and open valves.
9. Put the pump back into operation

Troubleshooting

If the recommendations in this section do not solve your particular problem(s), please contact your local dealer for service.

Technical Data

REFERENCE LINK

https://www.polarispool.com/en/products/above-ground-pool-products/pumps/forza