PENTAIR FREEFLO FFL-051 High Performance Pump Installation Guide

: September 24, 2024
: Pentair

Table of Contents

PENTAIR FREEFLO FFL-051 High-Performance Pump
Product Information
Product Usage Instructions
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WIRING
PUMP INSTALLATION
START / OPERATION
MAINTENANCE
TROUBLESHOOTING
TECHNICAL DATA
FAQ
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

PENTAIR FREEFLO FFL-051 High-Performance Pump

Product Information

Specifications:

Product Name: FREEFLOTM High-Performance Pump
Manufacturer: Pentair
Model Number: G-INSB-FFL (Rev. 12/2013)
Compliance : EN60335-1, EN60335-2-41

Product Usage Instructions

Installation Guide
Before installing the FREEFLOTM High-Performance Pump, please read and follow all instructions provided in the installation guide.
Warning
Failure to follow all instructions and warnings can result in serious bodily injury or death. This pump should be installed and serviced only by a qualified service professional.
Safety Instructions
Installers, operators, and owners must read all warnings and instructions in the owner’s manual before using this pump. These warnings and the owner’s manual must be left with the homeowner.
Suction Entrapment Hazard
Avoid the main drain and all suction outlets. The pump produces high levels of suction that can trap individuals underwater near drains or broken drain covers.
Unapproved Drain Covers
Using unapproved or damaged drain covers can result in body entrapment, hair entanglement, evisceration, or death. Always ensure proper drain covers are in place before using the pool or spa.

EUROPE	AUSTRALIA	SOUTH AFRICA
Pentair Water Belgium B.V.B.A	Pentair Water Australia	Pentair Water South

Declaration of conformity
Standards used for showing compliance with the essential requirements in the directive 2006/42/EC

EN60335-1
EN60335-2-41

The manufacturer, Pentair, has the right to modify the products withour previous notice for as far as the characteristics are not really changed by this.

Trademarks and disclaimers: All Pentair trademarks and logos are owned by Pentair, Inc. FreeFlo™ and Cam and Ramp™ are trademarks of Pentair Inc. and/or its afÏliated companies in the United States and/ or other countries. Unless expressly noted, names and brands of third parties that may be used in this document are not used to indicate an afÏliation or endorsement between the owners of these names and brands and Pentair Inc. Those names and brands may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of those third parties.

DANGER

FAILURE TO FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH. THIS PUMP SHOULD BE INSTALLED AND SERVICED ONLY BY A QUALIFIED SERVICE PROFESSIONAL. INSTALLERS, OPERATORS AND OWNERS MUST READ THESE WARNINGS AND ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THE OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE USING THIS PUMP. THESE WARNINGS AND THE OWNER’S MANUAL MUST BE LEFT WITH THE HOME OWNER.
SUCTION ENTRAPMENT HAZARD: STAY OFF THE MAIN DRAIN AND AWAY FROM ALL SUCTION OUTLETS!
THIS PUMP PRODUCES HIGH LEVELS OF SUCTION AND CREATES A STRONG VACUUM AT THE MAIN DRAIN AT THE BOTTOM OF YOUR POOL AND SPA. THIS SUCTION IS SO STRONG THAT IT CAN TRAP ADULTS OR CHILDREN UNDER WATER IF THEY COME IN CLOSE PROXILITY TO A POOL OR SPA DRAIN, OR A LOOSE OR BROKEN DRAIN COVER OR GRATE.
READ AND KEEP THESE INSTRUCTION FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
THE USE OF UNAPPROVED DRAIN COVERS OR ALLOWING USE OF THE POOL OR SPA WHEN COVERS ARE MISSING, CRACKED OR BROKEN CAN RESULT IN BODY OR LIMB ENTRAPMENT, HAIR ENTANGLEMENT, BODY ENTRAPMENT, EVISCERATON AND/OR DEATH.

The suction at a pool or spa drain or outlet can cause:

Limb Entrapment: When a limb is sucked or inserted into an opening resulting in a mechanical bind or swelling. This hazard is present when a drain cover is missing, broken, loose, cracked or not properly secured.
Hair Entanglement : When the hair tangles or knots in the drain cover, trapping the swimmer underwater. This hazard is present when the flow rating of the cover is too small for the pump or pumps.
Body Entrapment: When a portion of the body is held against the drain cover trapping the swimmer underwater. This hazard is present when the drain cover is missing, broken or the cover flow rating is not high enough for the pump or pumps.
Evisceration/Disembowelment: When a person sits on an open pool (particularly a child wading pool) or spa outlet and suction is applied directly to the intestines, causing severe intestinal damage. This hazard is present when the drain cover is missing, loose, cracked, or not properly secured.
Mechanical Entrapment: When jewelry, swimsuit, hair decorations, finger, toe or knuckle is caught in an opening of an outlet or drain cover. This hazard is present when the drain cover is missing, broken, loose, cracked, or not properly secured.

NOTE : ALL SUCTION PLUMBING MUST BE INSTALLED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LATEST NATIONAL AND LOCAL CODES FOR SWIMMING POOLS, SPAS AND HOT TUBS.

WARNING
TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF INJURY DUE TO SUCTION ENTRAPMENT HAZARD:

Pools and spas should utilize a minimum of two drains per pump.
A properly installed and secured anti-entrapment suction cover must be used for each drain.
Each suction cover must be installed at least one meter apart, as measured from the nearest point to nearest point.
Regularly inspect all covers for cracks, damage and advanced weathering.
If a cover becomes loose, cracked, damaged, broken or is missing, close the pool or spa immediately, shut off the pump, post a notice and keep the pool or spa closed until an appropriate certified cover is properly installed and approved.
Replace drain covers as necessary. Drain covers deteriorate over time due to exposure to sunlight, pool chemicals and weather.
Avoid getting hair, limbs or body in close proximity to any suction cover, pool drain or outlet.
Use a safety vacuum release system (“SVRS”), suction limiting system or automatic pump shut-off system
A clearly labeled emergency shut-off switch for the pool pump and spa jet pump must be in an easily accessible, obvious place near the pool or spa. Make sure bathers know where it is and how to use it in case of emergency.
The appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
A means for disconnection from the supply mains, having a contact separation in all poles, must be included in the fixed wiring in accordance with the wiring rules.
The pump must be supplied through a residual current device (RCD) having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30mA.
If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent or similarly qualified persons in order to avoid a hazard.

DANGER
HAZARDOUS PRESSURE: STAND CLEAR OF PUMP AND FILTER DURING START-UP Pool and spa circulation systems operate under high pressure. When any part of the circulating system (i.e. pump, filter, valves, etc.) is serviced, air can enter the system and become pressurized. Pressurized air can cause the pump housing, cover, filter lid and valves to violently separate which can result in severe personal injury or death. Filter tank lid and strainer cover must be properly secured to prevent violent separation. Stand clear of all circulation system equipment when turning on or starting pump. Electrical controls such as on/off switches, timers, and control systems, etc. should be properly installed to allow the operation (start-up, shut-down, or servicing) of any pump or filter without requiring the user to place any portion of his/her body over or near the pump strainer lid or filter lid. Such installation should allow the user to stand clear of the filter and pump during system start-up, shut down or servicing of the system.

Before servicing pool and spa equipment, make note of the filter pressure. Be sure that all controls are set to ensure the system cannot inadvertently start during service. Turn off all power to the pump.

IMPORTANT :

Before starting the system, fully open the manual air relief valve and place all system valves in the “open” position to allow water to flow freely from the pool and spa back to the pool or spa. Stand clear of all pool and spa equipment and start the pump.
Do not close filter manual air relief valve until all pressure has been discharged from the valve and a steady stream of water appears. Observe filter pressure gauge and be sure it is not higher than the pre-service condition

GENERAL INFORMATION
Check carton for any evidence of damage due to rough handling of the shipment. If carton or any pump component are damaged, notify the carrier immediately. Failure to follow the safety instruction may result in serious adverse health effects, or even serious or fatal injury. Failure to follow the safety instructions will in all cases invalidate all guarantees and liability on the part of the manufacturer.

APPLICATION
Only to be used to circulate swimming pool water.

ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WIRING

Electrical installation shall be in accordance with the local wiring codes taking into account its ratings. The pump is supplied with 1.5 m (5 feet) of cord.
A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) with maximum rated residual current of 30mA is required for the power supply to the pump. Additionally, if a suitable socket outlet is not available a weatherproof socket must be installed by an electrician in a suitable location. GFCI tripping indicates an electrical problem. If GFCI trips and will not reset have a qualified electrician inspect and repair electrical system.
Do not use extension leads as they are unsafe in and around the pool area.
Incorrect voltage can cause fire or seriously damage pump and voids warranty. Voltage at pump must not be more than 6% above or 10% below motor nameplate rated voltage or pump may overheat, causing overload tripping and reduced component life.

Wiring Installation

Note: Before installing this product, read and follow all warning notices and instructions.
Risk of electrical shock or electrocution.
The AC pump connection must be done by a service professional as described in this manual and all applicable current local regulations. The service professional installer should also be sure the pump motor has sufÏcient protection. All required pump wiring and AC electrical information is shown on the pump’s motor name plate.

BEFORE CONNECTING AC POWER WIRES TO THE PUMP, be sure to switch OFF the main AC power supply.

PUMP GROUNDING: BE SURE TO PERMANENTLY GROUND THE PUMP MOTOR.
Make sure all electrical breakers and switches are turned off before wiring motor. Choose a wire size from the chart below. When in doubt use a heavier gauge (larger diameter) wire. Heavier gauge will allow the motor to run cooler and more efÏcient. Make sure all electrical connections are clean and water tight. Cut wires to the appropriate length so they don’t overlap or touch when connected to the terminal board. Connect the pump permanently to a separate circuit. Be sure no other lights or appliances are on the same circuit.

PUMP INSTALLATION

Install the pump not closer than 1.5m (5 feet) from inside walls of the swimming pool or spa.
Use a direct and short suction line with continuous slope in order to avoid long priming times.
The pump should be placed on a flat, solid foundation, high enough to prevent flooding of the motor.
Install the pump in a sheltered location, ensuring ventilation and adequate access for servicing.
Do not mount electrical controls directly over pump.
Provide adequate floor drainage to avoid equipment and property damage.
Size all piping adequately and keep the number of elbows to a minimum.
Independently support the pipe near the suction and discharge of the pump in order to reduce the strain.
It is essential that the suction line is free of air leaks. The suction line should always be at least the same size as the suction inlet of the pump.

START / OPERATION

Starting the pump

Turn strainer pot lid in a counter-clockwise direction until it opens.
Fill the strainer pot and volute up to the inlet port with water.
Reinstall the strainer pot lid by placing the strainer pot lid on the strainer pot. Make sure the lid O-ring is properly placed. Seat the strainer pot lid then turn clockwise until the handle locks. Hand Tighten only!
Open the manual air relief valve on top of the filter. If no manual air relief valve is present, depress the multiport valve handle to relieve the pressure.
Stand clear of the system and filter. Energize the motor.
Bleed air from the filter until a steady stream of water comes out. Close the manual air relief valve.
Priming time depends on the suction lift and distance from the pool. Five minutes for priming is a reasonable time.
Pump will not lift more than 1.8 m (6 ft.). If pump does not prime, see troubleshooting guide.

MAINTENANCE

Risk of electrical shock or electrocution.

Always disconnect power to the pool pump at the circuit breaker before servicing the pump. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury to serviceman, pool users or others due to electric shock. Read all servicing instructions before working on the pump.
DO NOT open the strainer pot lid if pump fails to prime or if pump has been operating without water in the strainer pot.
Pumps operated in these circumstances may experience a build up of vapor pressure and may contain scalding hot water. Opening the pump may cause serious personal injury. In order to avoid the possibility of personal injury, make sure the suction and discharge valves are open and strainer pot temperature is cool to touch, then open with extreme caution.
Pump strainer basket unit is in front of the pump housing. Inside the chamber is the basket which must be kept clean of leaves and debris at all times. View basket through the ‘See through Lid’ to inspect for leaves and debris.

CAUTION: The Pump Strainer Basket
Regardless of the length of time between filter cleaning, it is most important to visually inspect the strainer pot basket at least once a week. A dirty basket will reduce the efÏciency of the pump and also put an abnormal stress on the pump motor which could result in a costly repair bill.

Turn off motor and relieve pressure in the system.
Turn strainer pot lid in a counter-clockwise direction until it opens and then remove the lid from the strainer pot.
Put the debris from the strainer basket into the trash and rinse out the basket. If the strainer basket is cracked, it should be replaced.
Replace the strainer basket. Make sure the strainer basket is properly seated in strainer pot.
Fill the strainer pot and volute with water up to the inlet port.
Clean the strainer pot lid, O-ring, and sealing surface of the strainer pot. Then grease the O-ring with silicone based
Reinstall the strainer pot lid by placing the strainer pot lid on the strainer pot. Make sure the lid O- ring is properly placed. Seat the strainer pot lid then turn clockwise until the handle locks. Hand Tighten only!
Turn the power “ON” at the house circuit breaker. Reset the pool time clock to the correct time.
THIS PUMP OPERATES UNDER HIGH PRESSURE
When any part of the circulating system (e.g., Strainer Pot Lid, Pump, Filter, Valves, etc.) is serviced, air can enter the system and become pressurized. Pressurized air can cause the lid to separate which can result in server injury, death, or property damage. To avoid this potential hazard, follow these instructions.
Open the manual air relief valve on top of the filter. If no manual air relief valve is present, depress the multiport valve handle to relieve the pressure.
Stand clear of the system and filter.
Start pump.
Bleed air from the filter until a steady stream of water comes out. Close the manual air relief valve.

Winterizing
If the air temperature drops below 2°C (35° F), the water in the pump can freeze and cause damage. Freeze damage is not warrantable.

To prevent freeze damage follow the procedures listed below:

Shut off electrical power for the pump at the house circuit breaker.
Drain the water out of the pump by removing the two thumb-twist drain plugs and the O rings from the pump housing and one from the strainer pot. Store the plugs and the O rings in the pump basket.
Cover the motor to protect it from severe rain, snow and ice.
Do not wrap the motor in plastic. It will cause condensation and rust on the inside of the motor.

Care of Electric Motor

Protect from heat.

1. Shade the motor from direct sunlight.
2. Any enclosure must be well ventilated to prevent overheating.
3. Provide ample cross ventilation.

Protect against moisture or other elements.

1. Protect from any foreign matter or splashing water.
2. Do not store (or spill) pool chemicals near the motor.
3. If a motor has become wet – let it dry before operating. Do not operate if it has been flooded.
4. If a motor has been damaged by water it voids the motor warranty.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Use the following troubleshooting information to resolve possible problems with your FreeFlo™ pump. Risk of electrical shock or electrocution – Turn off power to unit prior to attemting service or repair.

PROBLEM	CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

Pump will not prime – too much air

| Check suction piping and valve glands on any suction gate valves

Secure pot casing lid on pump strainer pot and make sure lid o-ring is in place Make sure o-ring on union is OK and in place

Ensure o-ring on diffuser nose is OK and is in place

Check water level to make sure skimmer is not drawing air.

Pump will not prime – not enough water| Make sure suction lines, pump strainer and pump volute are full of water Make sure valve on suction line is working and open (some do not have valves) Check water level to make sure water is available through skimmer.
Pump strainer basket clogged| Clean pump strainer basket
Pump strainer o-ring defective| Replace o-ring
REDUCED CAPACITY AND/OR HEAD|
Air pockets or leaks in suction line| Checksuction piping and valve glands on any suction gate valves
Clogged impeller| Clean debris from impeller

An illustrated spare parts list can be found at : www.pentairpooleurope.com

TECHNICAL DATA

PENTAIR AQUATIC SYSTEMS
INDUSTRIEPARK WOLFSTEE, TOEKOMSTLAAN 30, 2200 HERENTALS – BELGIUM, WWW.PENTAIRPOOLEUROPE.COM

Copyright – Limited License: except as specifically permitted herein, no portion of the content on this document may be reproduced in any form or by any mean without the prior written permission of Pentair International SRL

FAQ

What are the risks associated with suction entrapment?
The risks include limb entrapment, hair entanglement, body entrapment, evisceration/disembowelment, and mechanical entrapment.

Who should install and service the pump?
The pump should only be installed and serviced by a qualified service professional to ensure safety and proper functioning.