Pentair FULLFLOXF Q Series User manual

Pressurized air can cause the lid to separate from the tank with great force. To reduce the risk of
severe injury or death, relieve pressure by opening air relief valve before opening filter. Before starting
the pump after servicing, ensure that clamp band is correctly fastened. See Important Warnings and
Safety Instructions (page i) and follow all instructions exactly; including the Opening the Filter (page 5),
Installing the Filter Lid and Clamp Ring (page 7), and Start-Up Instructions (page 8).
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
INSTALLATION AND
USER’S GUIDE
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES
CARTRIDGE STYLE D.E. FILTER

IMPORTANT WARNING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This guide provides installation and operation instructions for
this product. Consult Pentair with any questions regarding this
equipment.
Attention Installer: This guide contains important information about the
installation, operation and safe use of this product. This information should
be given to the owner and/or operator of this equipment after installation
or left on or near the filter.
Attention User: This manual contains important information that will
help you in operating and maintaining this filter. Please retain it for future
reference.
Important Notice:
READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
This is the safety alert symbol. When you see this symbol
on your system or in this manual, look for one of the
following signal words and be alert to the potential for
personal injury.
Warns about hazards that can cause death, serious
personal injury, or major property damage if ignored.
Warns about hazards that may cause death, serious
personal injury, or major property damage if ignored.
Warns about hazards that may or can cause minor
personal injury or property damage if ignored.
NOTE Indicates special instructions not related to hazards.
Carefully read and follow all safety instructions in this manual and on
equipment. Keep safety labels in good condition; replace if missing or
damaged.
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
Never exceed the maximum operating pressure of
the system components. Exceeding these limits
could result in a component failing under pressure.
This instantaneous release of energy can cause the
closure to separate and could cause severe personal
injury or death if they were to strike a person.
Due to the potential risk that can be involved it is
recommended that the pressure test be kept to
the minimum time required by the local code. Do
not allow people to work around the system when
the circulation system is under pressure test. Post
appropriate warning signs and establish a barrier around the pressurized
equipment. If the equipment is located in an equipment room, lock the
door and post a warning sign.
Never attempt to adjust any closures or lids or attempt to remove or
tighten bolts when the system is pressurized. These actions can result in
a separation or failure of system components. This instantaneous release
of energy can cause components to be accelerated to high velocities and
to travel far distances. These components could cause severe personal
injury or death if they were to strike a person.
RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK OR
ELECTROCUTION.
This filter must be installed by a qualified service
professional in accordance with the National Electrical
Code and all applicable local codes and ordinances.
Always disconnect power to the equipment at the circuit breaker before
servicing any of the equipment. Ensure that the disconnected circuit is
locked out or properly tagged so that it cannot be switched on while you
are working on the pool equipment. Failure to do so could result in serious
injury or death to serviceman, pool users or others due to electric shock.
Position the filter and the air relief valve to safely direct water drainage and
purged air or water. Water discharged from an improperly positioned filter
or valve can create an electrical hazard that can cause severe personal
injury as well as damage property.
Consumer Information and Safety
This filter is designed and manufactured to provide many years of safe
and reliable service when installed, operated and maintained according
to the information in this manual and the installation codes referred to in
later sections. Throughout the manual, safety warnings and cautions are
identified by the “ ” symbol. Be sure to read and comply with all of the
warnings and cautions.
Before installing this product, read and follow all
warning notices and instructions which are included.
Failure to follow safety warnings and instructions can result in severe
injury, death, or property damage. Call [phone] for additional free
copies of these instructions.
Do not operate the filter until you have read and
understand clearly all the operating instructions and
warning messages for all equipment that is a part of the pool circulating
system. The following instructions are intended as a guide for initially
operating the filter in a general pool installation, however each installation
may have unique conditions where the starting procedure could be
different. Failure to follow all operating instructions and warning messages
can result in severe injury, death, or property damage.
To avoid this potential hazard, follow these instructions:
1. Before repositioning valve(s) and before beginning the assembly,
disassembly, or adjustment of the clamp or any other service of the
circulating system: (A) Turn the pump OFF and shut OFF any automatic
controls to ensure the system is NOT inadvertently started during the
servicing; (B) open the manual air relief valve; (C) stand clear of the
filter; (D) wait until all pressure is relieved.
2. Whenever installing the filter clamp FOLLOW THE FILTER CLAMP
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS EXACTLY.
3. Once service on the circulating system is complete FOLLOW SYSTEM
RESTART INSTRUCTIONS EXACTLY.
4. Maintain circulation system properly. Replace worn or damaged parts
immediately, (e.g., clamp, pressure gauge, valve(s), o-rings, etc).
5. Be sure that the filter is properly mounted and positioned according
to instructions provided.
FILTER OPERATES UNDER HIGH PRESSURE.
When any part of the circulating system, (e.g., clamp,
pump, filter, valve(s), etc.), is serviced, air can enter
the system and become pressurized. Pressurized
air can cause the lid to separate which can result in
severe injury, death, or property damage.
Do not permit children to use or operate this filter.
Use only a PTFE or silicone based lubricant when
lubricating the O-rings on the union and bulkhead
couplings. Use of petroleum based products will damage the equipment.
i

IMPORTANT WARNING AND SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
HAZARDOUS PRESSURE: STAND CLEAR OF
PUMP AND FILTER DURING START UP
Circulation systems operate under high pressure.
When any part of the circulating system (i.e.
locking ring, 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 up pump.
Before servicing 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: Place filter
manual air relief valve in the open position and wait for all pressure
in the system to be relieved.
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
tank and back to the tank. Stand clear of all equipment and start the pump.
IMPORTANT: 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.
The following information should be read carefully
since it outlines the proper manner of care and
operation for your filter system. As a result of following these instructions
and taking the necessary preventative care, you can expect maximum
efficiency and life from your filtration system.
For Installation of Electrical Controls at Equipment Pad (ON/OFF
Switches, Timers and Automation Load Center)
Install all electrical controls at equipment pad, such
as on/off switches, timers, and control systems,
etc. to allow the operation (startup, shut-down, or
servicing) of any pump or filter so the user does not
place any portion of his/her body over or near the
pump strainer lid, filter lid or valve closures.
This installation should allow the user enough space to stand clear of
the filter and pump during system start-up, shut down or servicing of the
system filter.
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
General Installation Information
The following information should be read carefully since it outlines the
proper manner of care and operation for your filter system.
You can expect maximum efficiency and life from your filtration system by
following these instructions and taking the necessary preventative care.
• Have a trained pool professional perform all pressure tests.
• Do not connect the system to a high pressure or city water system.
• Trapped air in the system can create a hazardous condition. BE SURE
to purge all air from the system before operating or testing equipment.
• DO NOT pressure test with compressed air!
• Piping must conform to local/state plumbing and sanitary codes.
• Support piping independently to prevent strains on filter or valve.
• Fittings restrict flow; for best efficiency, use the fewest possible fittings.
• A check valve installed ahead of the filter inlet will prevent contaminants
from draining back into the pool.
• A check valve installed between the filter and heater will prevent
hot water from backing up into the filter and deforming the internal
components.
• All wiring, grounding and bonding of associated equipment must meet
local and/or National Electrical Code standards.
SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH CAN RE-
SULT IF THIS FILTER IS NOT INSTALLED AND
USED CORRECTLY.
INSTALLERS, POOL OPERATORS AND POOL
OWNERS MUST READ THESE WARNINGS AND
ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS FILTER.
This filter is intended for use in swimming pool
applications. Most states and local codes regulate
the construction, installation, and operation of public pools and spas,
and the construction of residential pools and spas. It is important to
comply with these codes, many of which directly regulate the installation
and use of this product. Consult your local building and health codes for
more information.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT: Keep all warning labels in good condition. If any warnings
labels are damaged, missing, or become illegible call Pentair Customer
Service at 1-800-831-7133 and request replacement labeling.
ii

FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
iii
Maintenance .........................................................
When to Clean the Filter
Backwashing the Filter
Manually Cleaning the Filter Cartridges
Acid Soaking the Filter Cartridges
Replacing Filter Cartridges
Cleaning the Manual Air Relief Valve
Troubleshooting ..................................................
Technical Data .....................................................
Dimensional Drawings
Head Loss Comparison Curve
Recommended Flow Rates
Replacement Parts ..............................................
Important Warning and Safety Instructions ........
General Information ..............................................
Filter Overview
General Operation Information
Maintaining the Pressure Gauge
Pressure Tests
Installation .............................................................
Filter Location
Filter Plumbing
Installing the Manual Air Relief Valve
Anchor Clamp Installation
System Start-Up and Operation ...........................
Opening the Filter
Preparing Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.)
Coating the Filter Cartridges with D.E.
Installing the Filter Lid and Clamp Ring
Start-Up Instructions
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ii
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
4
5
5
6
6
7
8
9
9
9
10
11
12
12
13
14
14
14
14
15
If you have questions about ordering Pentair replacement parts, and pool products, please contact:
CUSTOMER SERVICE / TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Customer Service and Technical Support, USA
(8 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. — Eastern/Pacific Times)
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web site
Visit www.pentair.com for information about
Pentair products.
Sanford, North Carolina (8 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. ET)
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Moorpark, California (8 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. PT)
Phone: [phone] (Ext. 5591)
Fax: [phone]

1
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
GENERAL INFORMATION
Filter Overview
• Four easily removable, large-capacity cartridges provide
maximum filter surface area for greater dirt-trapping
capacity and longer periods between cleanings.
• Full 2-1/2” x 3” bulkhead unions for improved hydraulic
efficiency and easy piping installation.
• HiFlow™ Manual Air Relief Valve for rapid air release.
• Conveniently located 2” drain for easy and complete
draining.
• Durable 8 oz. polypropylene cartridge media has
superslick surfaces, making them easier to clean than
conventional cartridge filters.
General Operation Information
Read and follow all instructions and warnings before
installing or servicing your filter. Proper installation and
operation can prevent unnecessary repairs and maintenance.
1. This filter operates under pressure. When clamped
properly and operated without air in the water system,
this filter will operate in a safe manner.
2. The maximum working pressure of this filter is 50 psi.
Never subject this filter to pressure in excess of this
amount - even when conducting hydrostatic pressure
tests.
3. Ensure the maximum working pressure of the filter
system does not exceed the maximum working
pressure of any components within the system during
hydrostatic or external leak tests. Consult the maximum
pressure stated on each component of the system.
4. The pressure gauge is the primary indicator of how
the filter is operating. Maintain your pressure gauge in
good working order (refer to Maintaining the Pressure
Gauge).
5. Never operate filter in excess of three minutes without
use of diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth is the
substance that filters the water, the filter cloth merely
supports the diatomaceous earth. Operating without
diatomaceous earth will damage filter cartridges and
shorten filtering cycles.
Maintaining the Pressure Gauge
The pressure gauge is the primary indicator of how
the system operates. It is critical to keep the pressure
gauge in good condition.
Replace pressure gauge (P/N 190058) if any of
the requirements below are not met:
1. Pressure gauge at zero (0) when pressure is
relieved and system is turned off.
2. Pressure gauge reads correctly while system is
in operation.
3. The pressure gauge is readable and not
damaged in any way.
Pressure Tests
When performing hydrostatic pressure tests or when
testing for external leaks of the completed filtration
and plumbing system, ensure that the Maximum
Pressure that the filtration system will be subjected
to DOES NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM WORKING
PRESSURE OF ANY OF THE COMPONENTS
CONTAINED WITHIN THE SYSTEM.
In most cases, the maximum pressure will be
stated on each component of the system. If doubt
exists as to the pressure to which the system will
be subjected, install an ASME approved automatic
Pressure Relief or Pressure Regulator in the
circulation system set to the lowest working pressure
of all of the components in the system.
THIS SYSTEM OPERATES UNDER HIGH PRESSURE.
When any part of the circulating system (e.g., Lock Ring, 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 serious injury, death, or property damage. To avoid this
potential hazard, follow the instructions below.
Your filter is a piece of machinery, do not tamper with it,
attempt to disassemble it or otherwise adjust it unless you
fully understand it's operation. Serious injury or death can
occur if the equipment is improperly handled. Consult a pool
service professional for maintenance and service assistance.

2
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
The following information describes how to install the
FullFloXF®Q-Series Cartridge Style D.E. Filter. Only a
qualified service person should install this filter.
Note: Before installing this product, read and follow
all warning notices and instructions on pages i-ii.
Filter Location
1. The filter should be mounted on a level concrete
slab. Position the filter so that instructions,
warnings and the pressure gauge are visible to the
operator.
2. Position the filter so that the piping connections,
control valve and drain port are convenient and
accessible for servicing and winterizing.
3. Install electrical controls (e.g., on/off switches,
timers, control systems, etc.) at least 5 ft. (1.5 m)
from the filter. This will allow you enough room to
stand clear of the filter during system start up.
4. Allow sufficient clearance around the filter to permit
visual verification that the clamp ring is properly
installed around the tank flanges, see Figure 1.
Note: Refer to the page 7 for instructions on
properly installing the clamp ring.
5. Allow sufficient space above the filter to remove the
filter lid for cleaning and servicing. This distance
will vary with the model of filter you are using. See
Table 1 for the required vertical clearance.
6. Position the filter to safely direct water drainage.
Rotate the HiFlow™ Manual Air Relief Valve to
safely direct purged air or water. Water discharged
from an improperly positioned filter or valve can
create an electrical hazard as well as damage
property.
7. Install the manual air relief valve and pressure
gauge before use. See Installing the Manual Air
Relief Valve on the next page.
Table 1
Vertical
Clearance
Model P/N Size Required
Q80 188627 80 sq. ft. 65 in.
Q100 188613 100 sq. ft. 80 in.
Q120 188616 120 sq. ft. 80 in.
INSTALLATION
Filter Plumbing
1. Make all plumbing connections in accordance with
local plumbing and building codes. Check local
codes for restrictions on backwash to waste piping,
separation tank requirements and spent D.E. disposal
requirements.
2. Filter plumbing connections are provided with an
O-ring seal. To avoid damage to the O-rings, use only
a silicone base lubricant on the O-rings. Do not use
pipe joint compound, glue or solvent on the bulkhead
connections.
3. This filter requires one of the following Pentair
accessories which must be purchased separately.
a. P/N 262511 - FullFloXF Valve (Recommended)
b. P/N 410020 - Union Kit
This D.E. filter has a different water flow
pattern than all other Pentair D.E. filters.
When plumbing the filter with a backwash valve, one of the following
valves, listed below, must be used. Failure to use the correct
backwash valve could damage the filter cartridges and void the
warranty.
Figure 1
RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK OR
ELECTROCUTION. Position the filter and
manual air relief valve to safely direct
water drainage and purged air or water.
Water discharged from an improperly
positioned filter or valve can create an
electrical hazard that can cause severe personal injury as well as
damage property.

3
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
Installing the Manual Air Relief Valve
1. Remove the HiFlow™ Manual Air Relief Valve and the pressure gauge
from the accessories package included with your FullFloXF®Q-Series
Cartridge Style D.E. Filter.
2. Thread the manual air relief valve into the threaded hole at the top of
the filter tank.
Note: Hand tighten only! Over tightening the valve can cause
damage to the tank or valve connection threads.
3. Verify that the valve is positioned to safely direct purged air or water
away from electrical equipment or anything that might be damaged.
4. Remove the plug from the top of the manual air relief valve with a 9/16" wrench.
5. Wrap the pressure gauge connection threads with thread seal tape (two full wraps of tape will be enough).
6. Thread the pressure gauge into the top of the manual air relief valve. Hand tighten only!
7. Follow Start-up Instructions exactly (page 8).
VALVE
PLUG
PRESSURE
GAUGE
FILTER
TANK
Figure 2
The manual air relief valve and pressure gauge are included with this filter
to help ensure safe operation of the equipment. Always maintain these
components in good working condition.
RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK OR ELECTROCUTION. Water
discharged from an improperly positioned filter or valve can create
an electrical hazard that can cause severe personal injury as well
as damage property.

4
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
Anchor Clamp Installation
Installation of anchor clamps is recommended in high wind
and seismically active areas. A Pentair Anchor Clamp Kit
(P/N 178840) is not included with this filter, but can be
purchased separately.
Anchor clamps hold the FullFloXF®Q-Series Cartridge Style
D.E. Filter to the equipment pad in order to withstand high
winds caused during extreme weather, such as hurricanes.
To install the anchor clamps:
1. Be sure the filter is in its permanent location on the
equipment pad.
2. Place the clamps into the base of the filter in the four
anchor slots shown in Figure 3.
Note: Bolts and bolt anchors are not included with the
filter. The installer must provide 1/4” x 1-3/8” stainless steel
anchor bolts and the appropriate size concrete anchor to
mount the clamp to the equipment pad. Be sure to check
local codes.
3. Fit the hook of each clamp into the anchor slots on the
base panel of the filter. See Figure 3.
4. Mark the position of the hole in each clamp on the equipment
pad.
5. Use a masonry drill bit and drill a hole in the cement with
a diameter as determined by the concrete anchor, at each
of the marks on the equipment pad. The hole should be
approximately 1.5 inches deep. See Figure 4.
6. Insert a bolt anchor into each of the holes. Be sure the
anchors are set completely into the holes.
7. Position the anchor clamps so that the holes in the
clamps are over the bolt anchors.
Be sure that the clamp hooks are over the lip of the filter
base.
8. Insert an anchor bolt through each clamp into the bolt
anchor and tighten to secure the clamp and filter to the
equipment pad.
Figure 3
Anchor
Clamps
Anchor
Clamps
Anchor
Clamp 1.5 in.
Deep
Figure 4
Anchor Bolt
(Not Included)
Bolt Anchor
(Not Included)

5
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
SYSTEM START-UP AND OPERATION
The following information should be read carefully since it outlines the proper manner of care and operation for your filter system. As a
result of following these instructions and taking the necessary preventative care, you can expect maximum efficiency and life from your
filtration system.
Opening the Filter
Follow these instructions exactly to prevent the lid from separating during system start-up, operation or servicing.
REQUIRED TOOLS:
• Ratchet Wrench
• 7/8” Socket
• Socket Extender (if needed)
PROCEDURE:
1. Shut off pump and relieve pressure.
a. Turn the pump OFF, shut OFF any automatic
controls (e.g., timers), and disconnect power to
ensure that the system is not inadvertently started
during maintenance.
b. Open the HiFlow™ Manual Air Relief Valve
by turning the valve cover assembly counter-
clockwise until it snaps into the full open position.
c. Stand clear of the filter and wait until all pressure
is relieved. Pressure gauge must read zero (0 psi).
2. Open the waste drain plug on the bottom of the
FullFloXF®Q-Series Cartridge Style D.E. Filter. Allow all
water to drain from the bottom of the filter tank.
3. Loosen the clamp's barrel nut with a 7/8" wrench,
allowing the spring coils to decompress. See Figure 6.
Remove the barrel nut, spring and two washers from
the T-bolt and place them in a safe place where they will
not be lost.
4. Once the spring has fully decompressed the clamp
assembly will rest in the open position. Carefully lift the
filter lid straight up from the lower body of the filter. If
the lid is tightly sealed to the filter body you may have
to gently push the filter lid from side to side in order to separate the lid from the tank bottom.
5. Place the tank lid in a safe place where it will not be damaged while performing any maintenance.
Note: Attempt to minimize the amount of debris that comes in contact with the tank O-ring while it is exposed. This
will help prolong the life of the O-ring.
DO NOT use the relief valve as a handle or lever since this may damage the valve.
Spring
Barrel
Nut
Sm. Washer
T-Bolt
Clamp Ring
Lrg. Washer
Figure 5
Clamp Ring,
Open Position
Clamp Ring,
Closed Position Loosen with
7/8" Wrench
Figure 6
FILTER OPERATES UNDER HIGH PRESSURE.
When any part of the circulating system (e.g., Clamp Ring, 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 serious injury, death, or property
damage. To avoid this potential hazard, follow the instructions below.

6
FULLFLOXF®Q-SERIES Cartridge Style D.E. Filter Installation and User’s Guide
Preparing Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.)
Your filter requires diatomaceous earth (D.E.) for
proper filtration and operation. Your filter cartridges
must be precoated with this material in order to protect
their surfaces and provide the most efficient filtering
action. Refer to Table 2 for the proper quantity to use
with your filter. We recommend the use of D.E. which
is sold and labeled for use with swimming pools and
spas. These grades of D.E. typically have a median
particle size of 34 microns, which is ideal for most
applications.
1. The filters are listed with the appropriate amounts
of D.E. to be used to precoat the filter cartridges.
A 1-lb. coffee can filled (level) with D.E. is equal to
1/2-lb. weight of diatomaceous earth. Do not “pack”
or compress D.E. into the coffee can.
2. Mix the required amount of D.E. with sufficient
water in a bucket to make a thin, milky mixture.
3. Refer to Coating the Filter Cartridges with D.E. for
instruction on introducing the D.E. slurry into the
filter.
Table 2
Filter Area Weight of No. of 1 lb.
(sq. ft.) D.E. Coffee Cans
80 8 lbs. 16
100 10 lbs. 20
120 12 lbs. 24
Coating the Filter Cartridges with D.E.
The following information should be read
carefully since it outlines the proper manner
of care and operation for your filter system. You can expect
maximum efficiency and life from your filtration system by following
these instructions and taking the necessary preventative care.
1. Position valve to FILTER OR VACUUM TO POOL
setting. This is your normal flow from the pump
through the filter to the pool. Open the HiFlow™
Manual Air Relief Valve on the filter.
2. Prepare the recommended amount of
diatomaceous earth according to instructions given
in Preparing Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.).
3. On initial start-up the pump must be primed by
filling the hair and lint strainer pot with water. You
may have to do this several times.
4. Follow the steps outlined on page 8, Start-Up
Instructions for system start-up.
5. Introduce the slurry of D.E from the bucket directly
into the top of the skimmer. With the pump running
and the pool skimmer valve open, pour the mixture
directly into the skimmer. The slurry will be drawn
into the filter.
6. Your filter is now operational.
Follow all manufacturer safety precautions given on
the D.E. packaging.