Pool Equipment Layout: What To Consider

If you're putting in a swimming pool, it's important to plan your pool equipment layout. Kicking back by the pool filters and PVC pipes isn’t exactly relaxing. Who wants to lounge around a bunch of pool equipment? Even though your pool equipment is very much necessary, it’s not something you want to look at. That’s why with a bit of consideration for pool equipment layout, you can hide unsightly equipment and create the backyard oasis you deserve.

Parts of a Pool Equipment Pad

Your pool equipment pad is a platform that houses important components like the pump, filter, heater, and other add-ons. It’s responsible for keeping your pool clean and functioning. Most pads require a 4’x4’ area, but some pads may require more space, depending on your equipment.

A pool equipment pad is almost always made of concrete. The pump is located on one side of the pad, with the heater on the opposite side and the filter in the middle.

The Pool Pump

Like the human heart, your pool pump is responsible for circulation. Stagnant water causes all sorts of contaminants like algae, bacteria, and parasites, but the pool pump is what prevents these hazards from growing. It pulls in water from the skimmer and main drain and then pushes it into the filter.

The Pool Filter

Your pool is like a magnet for dirt, dead bugs, and other debris. It’s the pool filter’s job to filter out these unwanted particles. The pool filter is a vital part of your pool’s internal system and without it, your pool would wind up looking and feeling dirty and grimy.

The Pool Heater

Even though pool heaters are seen as a luxury, it’s smart to install one. Pool heaters help regulate water temperature and keep the pool parties going all the way into the fall and winter months.

Setting Up Your Pool Equipment Pad

When you set up your pool pad, you should be able to walk or kneel freely around the equipment easily, and the valves should be facing the front.

The Suction Side

The suction side of your pool equipment pad is what sucks in water through the filtration system. When setting up the suction side, make sure the plumbing is connected to the pump using three-way valves. These valves control the flow of the skimmers and main drains.

The Pressure Side

Unlike the suction side, the pressure side of your pool equipment pad pushes water from the filtration system back into your pool. This water transitions from the suction side of the pad to the pressure side through the plumbing system.

Where To Put Your Pool Equipment

Place It Close To Your House (If Possible)

Pool equipment is typically wired to your house box panel. Keeping the equipment close by helps reduce the risk of tripping over long wires and saves you money on wiring costs. Of course, this isn’t always possible, so use your best judgment when choosing a location.

Keep It at the Level of the Pool

It’s smart to keep your pool equipment at or below pool level. Placing it above pool level will end up putting a strain on the pool pump and filtration system. That being said, two to three feet above an inground pool is fine. Just keep in mind that your equipment will work best when it’s at or below your pool’s level.

How To Hide Your Pool Equipment

Some things are best left unseen. Unless you like looking at pool pumps and filters, your pool equipment should always be placed in an inconspicuous area. We recommend placing your pool equipment behind your house or shed. Plants and bushes can also help hide your pool equipment.

Use a Gate

Let’s face it, you’re not a teenager anymore. Instead of hopping the fence, use a gate to access your pool equipment. This will save you time and eliminate the headache of trying to access your filter system.

Consider the Noise

Noise has always been a concern for homeowners. Today, pool filtration systems are pretty quiet and shouldn’t disrupt you or your neighbors. However, if noise is a concern, be sure to place the equipment pad away from any bedroom windows.

What About Equipment for an Above-Ground Pool?

The same rules apply for above-ground pools as in-ground pools. Place your equipment as close to your house as you can and make sure the filter system for your above-ground pool is at or below pool level. You can use plants, a shed, a pool house, or a screen to shield or hide the equipment pad.

Can Pool Equipment Go Under a Deck?

Hiding your pool equipment under your deck may seem like a good idea at first—until you have to access it. Don’t put your pool filtration system under your deck; give yourself enough room to stand up and walk around the pad.

Get Your Pool Equipment at ePoolSupply

If you’re a new pool owner, you’ll need to outfit the equipment pad with the filtration system. For over 25 years, ePoolSupply has been the leading pool equipment and parts store. Get everything from pool pumps, filters, heaters, and more.

With extensive experience in pool repair and maintenance, our experts are here to help walk you through the best pool equipment pad setup. Shop online or visit us at our new brick-and-mortar Phoenix pool supply store located at 2710 West Bell Road, Suite 1100, Phoenix, AZ 85053.