Why do we need to replace the suction outlets in our pool?
In compliance with the new Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act which was put in place to enhance the safety pf swimming pools, spas and hot tubs. This Act sets federal mandate that suction and entrapment devices be changed to become in compliance with the new Act. This includes new pool drain covers in addition to many other changes and requirements that must be met under penalty of the law. Hayward is one of those companies that take your safety seriously. They have complied and are putting out their new safety products for residential and commercial pool safety.
By safety starts at home, if you are worried about the pool and the components of the swimming pool being safe, and then take a look at what Hayward Pool Drain Covers have to offer you in the way of safety. All of these products are 100% in accordance with the Virginia Greame Baker Act. If you are the owner of a concrete, vinyl or fiberglass swimming pool, Hayward offers the NSF listed suction outlets in many different styles and sizes. All ready for your swimming pool needs.
In order to reduce the risk of hair or body part from becoming entrapped in the suction systems, Hayward brings a new line of drain covers. It is mandatory that a minimum of two functioning suction outlets per pump must be installed. Outlets that are on the floor or wall of the pools must be 3 feet apart. If you have a pipe size of 1-1/2″ the flow rate of water has to be 40 gallons per minute for 2″ pipes the flow rate has to be 63 gallons per minute, 2-1/2″ pipe the flow rate has to be 90 gallons per minute and 3″ pipe size has to be 138 gallons per minute.
Specifications of Hayward Suction Outlets and Covers
If your swimming pools have floor mounted suction covers then you would use Model WGX1048E and the flow rate has to be 125 gallons per minute and if you are using the wall or the floor units it would be model WG1048EW and the flow rate would be 72 gallons per minute. The reason why a minimum of two are necessary is that the water flow is not so strong to one location in the pool.
To ensure maximum safety, you should always be aware of what is gathering by these pool drains such as debris including dirt, hair or leaves. Always make sure that these pool drain covers are working properly. Here are a few of the specifications of the Hayward Pool Drain Covers.
Model WG1153AVPAK2 has a cover dimension of 7-7/8″ and an open cover area of 8.1″. The pipe size on the side suction outlet is 1-1/2″ and a pipe size on the bottom is 2″. Model WG1154AVPAK2 also offers a 7-7/8″ cover dimension with a 8.1″ cover open area but the pipe size on the side outlet is 2″ and the same for the pipe size on the bottom of the swimming pool.
The frames and covers of the Hayward Pool Drain Covers are WB1030AVPAK2, which has a cover dimension of 7-7/8″ and an open area of 8.1″. This model is available in black or gray. Model WG1032PAK2 offers a cover dimension of 12″ x 12″ and a 32″ cover open area and Model WG1033PAK2 offers an 18″ x 18″ cover dimension and a 71.25 cover open area.
Accessories
There are also accessories that you can order to enhance the safety of your swimming pool there are brass inserts, adjustable plaster collars and suction outlet bumpers. By keeping these suction outlets covered you are reducing the risk of injury by 100%. Check with your local Hayward representative and find to what you can do to make your swimming pool as safe as you possibly can.
The problem is that most often homeowners don’t think to install these drain covers until it is too late. What happened to Virginia Baker happened at a hotel swimming pool but it could very easily happen in your own backyard and that is why these safety measures are put in place.
