Unblockable Swimming Pool and Spa Drains
The CPSC (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) definition of an Unblockable Drain:
"A suction outlet defined as all components, including the sump and/or body, cover/grate, and hardware such that its perforated (open) area cannot be shadowed by the area of the 18 x 23 Body Blocking Element of ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 2007 and that the rated flow through the remaining open area cannot create a suction force in excess of the removal force values in Table 1 of that Standard. All suction outlet covers, manufactured or field-‐fabricated, shall be certified as meeting the applicable requirements of the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 standard.”
"A suction outlet defined as all components, including the sump and/or body, cover/grate, and hardware such that its perforated (open) area cannot be shadowed by the area of the 18 x 23 Body Blocking Element of ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 2007 and that the rated flow through the remaining open area cannot create a suction force in excess of the removal force values in Table 1 of that Standard. All suction outlet covers, manufactured or field-‐fabricated, shall be certified as meeting the applicable requirements of the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 standard.”
What does this mean to the consumer?
It means that an Unblockable Drain may be used as an alternative to splitting (or "tee'ing") drains in a pool or spa.
Why is this important?
It is much less expensive to install an Unblockable Drain than to split one drain into two balanced drains.
What does an Unblockable Drain look like?
There are several styles but the most common is commonly known as a Channel Drain:
Are Unblockable Drains compliant with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act?
Yes.
Mike the Poolman
705 East Bidwell Street, 2-299 Folsom, California 95630
(916) 985-7665 or 484-7665