Swimming Pool Flowmeters

Pool Flowmeters: Accurate Water Flow Control for Optimal Maintenance

Swimming pool flowmeters are used to accurately measure the flow of water flowing through the hydraulic system. Thanks to their accuracy, ease of installation and usefulness in maintenance, they have become essential tools to ensure efficient filtration and controlled energy consumption.

They are especially useful for adjusting variable speed pumps, optimizing the performance of the filtration system or verifying that the minimum flow rate required by certain equipment (such as salt chlorinators or dosing pumps) is being met.

why choose flowmeters for swimming pools?

Choosing a quality flowmeter brings multiple benefits:

• Optimization of the filtration system: They allow you to adjust the ideal flow rate for optimal performance of filters, pumps and salt chlorinators.
• Energy savings: They help to detect overloads or efficiency losses, optimizing the use of the pump.
• Predictive maintenance: They facilitate the detection of obstructions or failures in the hydraulic system before they cause major problems.
• Longer equipment life: By maintaining a stable and controlled flow rate, premature wear of components is avoided.

how do pool flow meters work?

Flow meters work by means of a mechanism that measures the volume of water passing through a given point in the hydraulic system, generally expressed in liters per hour (l/h) or cubic meters per hour (m³/h). Depending on the type, they can be analog (direct reading) or digital (with display and additional functions), and can even be integrated with automation systems.

which flow meter do I need for my pool? Types and recommendations

At Quimipool we work mainly with two types of flowmeters: rotameters and flap valve flowmeters. Each one has its own particularities and is recommended according to the type of installation.

Rotameter flowmeters

• Rotameters are visual flowmeters that allow direct observation of the flow rate thanks to a floating part that rises according to the water flow.
• They are usually installed vertically, and are particularly useful for quick and intuitive readings.

Advantages of rotameters:

• Wide installation range: from small Ø50 mm pipes to high flow installations with diameters of 160 mm, 200 mm or even larger.
• Easy visual reading.
• High reliability in clean installations, with well filtered water.
• Easy maintenance

Typical applications:

• Installations with variable speed pumps.
• Community or public pools where flow control is required.
• Systems where a continuous visual reference of the flow is required.

Flowmeters with flapper valve (Flowis brand)

This type of flowmeter incorporates a flapper valve, providing a flow reading by displacement of an internal flapper. They are a more compact and discrete solution than the rotameter, and can be installed in different orientations (horizontal or vertical).

Limitations:

• Narrower installation range: more suitable for small or medium diameter pipes.
• Not recommended in high flow installations or with diameters greater than 110 mm, as accuracy decreases.
• Advantages:

Compact design.

• Possibility of reading in smaller spaces.
• For pools with variable speed pump
• Medium size pools

Conclusion

The choice of the right flowmeter depends on the type of installation and the intended use.

As a general rule:

• For large pools or public facilities, we recommend rotameters for their wider range of compatibility and ease of reading.
• For small to medium sized private pools, flow meters with flap valves (such as Flowis) may be a good alternative.

Key technical concepts explained

• Flow rate: The volume of water flowing through a pipe in a given time. It is usually measured in liters per hour (l/h) or cubic meters per hour (m³/h). It is the fundamental parameter for the correct dimensioning of the filtration system and to guarantee the efficiency of the water treatment.
• In-line / Insertion installation: Refers to the ways of mounting the flowmeter. In-line installation involves cutting the pipe and placing the device between the two ends. By insertion, on the other hand, a perforation is made in the pipe to insert a sensor, with less impact on the installation.
• Water velocity (MPS / FPS): This is the speed at which water moves through the pipe, expressed in meters or feet per second. FlowVis includes a color scale that alerts whether this velocity is adequate (green), moderate (yellow) or excessive (red), which helps protect equipment.
• Pressure drop: The reduction in pressure that occurs when water flows through the flow meter or other circuit elements. FlowVis stands out for offering one of the lowest pressure drops on the market, even below a 90° bend, which promotes hydraulic efficiency.
• Reading accuracy: Indicates the margin of error in the flow measurement. Models such as FlowVis have a certified accuracy of up to ±2%, making them ideal for installations where accuracy is required, such as salt chlorination systems or variable speed pumps.