Adding Extra Inlets And Outlets To Pool

by Michael
(Auburn, CA)

I am reinstalling my AGP and replacing the liner.
I am considering adding another inlet pipe about a foot or so from the bottom, below the skimmer inlet.

It would be capped during normal pool usage but I would like to attach to it for cleaning/vacuuming the pool. I always seem to have trouble connecting at the skimmer to do the suctioning.

Also, I would like to add another outlet about opposite of the original for more water circulation. I know I have to cut the liner and steel wall, etc.

Are these ideas and good? Have you ever seen them done before or done them yourself? Does it make sense what I am planning?

Thank you. Michael

Hi Michael

This makes perfectly good sense yes, I have done it many times.

I would use Haywood return fittings for both openings. Going through the wall is easy with a 2 1/2" hole saw and a drill. The fitting are threaded on the inside and will adapt to either a return eyeball or a threaded hose adapter.

I would not cut the openings any deeper than you have to. The return should be at about the same level as the original one and the inlet should be just slightly below the skimmer. The lower you get on the wall the more water pressure there is so it's best not to disturb the wall any lower than needed.

You want the inlet to be close enough to the top of the pool so that you can easily reach it to hook up the cleaner. It only has to be below water level to operate effectively.

The inlet and return lines should go into a three way valve for easy adjustment. This kind of setup works best with PVC pipe, either solid or flexible. I'm not much of a plumber and really love the flexible PVC pipe.

Haywood makes a handy spring loaded safety cap for the inlet, you may consider one of these for safety purposes.