Floor Returns on Perimeter Overflow Pool

[alphabet1]

Hello.

I haven‘t been on the forum in a long time, but my previous questions were answered so helpfully I thought I would ask some more!

I am hoping to build a perimeter overflow pool. The type with a small gap the entire way around.

My previous pool had an infinity edge so I understand the need for a balance tank, etc... But I have some questions regarding floor returns.

The way the pool is being built is relatively complicated. There will be a basement surrounding the deep end of the pool. It is not as elaborate as it sounds, it is actually a way of utilising the large empty space underneath one end of the pool decking.

It does, however, make plumbing the return lines slightly more difficult.

I was wondering whether I could use floor returns on the pool?

The pool is 65ft long x 13ft wide. If I was to put wall returns on both long walls then there would be very long, inefficient runs of return line pipe. If I was to install 6 or 8 floor returns, then the required plumbing would be much shorter, neater and easier to install.

As it is overflowing on all sides, I think the usual skimmer circulation that wall jets achieve is not strictly necessary.

I would be very interested in your thoughts.

Many thanks.

 

[Jimrahbe]

1,

I assume with a perimeter overflow pool you do not have skimmers... ???

If so, I see no reason to have wall returns.

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[alphabet1]

Thanks Jim.

No, there won’t be any skimmers.

It will be a bit like the pool in the attached photo.

When the pump is on, the pool overflows into a concealed gutter around the perimeter and travels via gravity to a buried water tank. It is then sucked from the water tank, filtered, heated and returned to the pool.

It is similar to the large sports-centre/community pools that have a plastic grate around the perimeter. Just made to look a little prettier.

 

[Jimrahbe]

1,

I went swimming in a hotel in Germany that had perimeter overflow... I was impressed with the look.

If I remember correctly, it had wall returns, but smooth with the wall and no eyeballs.. It also had a swim jet at one end where you could swim in place.. Well, where someone younger and stronger could swim in place. I could only keep up for 15 seconds or so..

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[mknauss]

You would still need a leaf / debris catch. I suppose that is designed in the surge tank system?

 

[alphabet1]

Thanks mknauss, that’s why I ask the questions.

I had not thought about leaves and debris.

I think a debris basket on the surge tank inlet is a good idea.

There are no trees near the pool, so leaves should not be a huge problem. But I know they can blow in from considerable distances.

 

[ajw22]

Below is the pool on the 5th floor of the Waldorf Astoria in Berlin, Germany. It is one of the most beautiful indoor pools I have been in. It has no skimmer and floor returns. I see no reason why you can't use floor returns.

Waldorf Astoria Berlin Pool

• ajw22
• Jan 10, 2020

Pool on the 5th floor of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Berlin, Germany

Waldorf Astoria Berlin floor return

• ajw22
• Jan 10, 2020

Floor returns in the pool at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Berlin, Germany