Pool nozzles

The main difference is the direction of water flow: return nozzles send filtered water back into the pool under pressure, while suction nozzles draw water into the filtration system or connect cleaning equipment.

Return nozzles usually have an adjustable ball to direct the jet toward the bottom or surface, promoting thermal mixing. Suction inlets have an internal thread or safety cap to secure the pool-cleaner hose without loss of suction.

You should use nozzles specifically designed for liners and metal walls, with double rubber or EPDM seals and a front mounting flange.

These parts seal both sides of the pool wall and flexible liner using chlorine-resistant stainless steel screws. For above-ground models such as removable pools, replacement parts such as the Skimmer + AR100 return nozzle include a rear nut for a precise fit and a direct connection to 32 mm and 38 mm hoses.

The most widely used standard in residential installations is a 1 1/2-inch male threaded connection (gas thread) or a 2-inch connection that screws directly into wall fittings embedded in the concrete.

In plumbing, the most common technical specifications include:

• 1 1/2-inch male thread with a socket for gluing 50 mm PVC pipe.
• 2-inch male thread for water inlets with 63 mm PVC pipe.
• Adjustable outlet opening from 14 mm to 25 mm in diameter, depending on the required flow rate.

Check the dimensions of the wall fitting before ordering the replacement part.

To eliminate thermal stratification and distribute chemicals evenly, point the return jets downward at an angle of approximately 30 to 45 degrees, with a slight sideways tilt.

This arrangement creates a circular flow that pushes water toward the main drain and lifts settled particles so they can reach the filter. If you point the jets directly at the surface, chlorine will build up at the top, while sediment and pronounced temperature differences will accumulate at the bottom.

The suction jet can be replaced with the pool full by using an expansion plug or tapered threaded plug to seal the pipe from inside the pool.

Follow these steps:

• Turn off the pump and set the shutoff valve to the closed position.
• Insert a watertight rubber plug into the opening to prevent water from flowing back.
• Unscrew the damaged front trim piece or remove the flange screws if the pool has a liner.
• Install the new body with a new gasket and apply Teflon tape to the male threads to prevent air from entering.

You need a dedicated suction jet with a 1 1/2-inch female internal thread, designed to accept the tapered end of the flexible hose.

These jets withstand the suction generated by the pump without deforming. Once maintenance is complete, fit a cover or trim piece to prevent accidental entrapment. When connecting mechanical cleaning equipment, check that the jet can handle the suction flow rate so it does not reduce the efficiency of the overall hydraulic circuit.

Replacement is usually necessary every 4 to 6 years, as solar radiation and chemicals dry out ABS plastic, causing cracks or breakage in the adjustable ball joints.

If you notice pressure loss at the return jets, looseness that prevents you from fixing their direction, or leaks behind the liner flange, replace the part before it causes structural leaks around the wall fitting.