Midland, NC 
Inlet Filtration
Choosing the proper inlet water filter is the first step in protecting your pump from potential damage, and keeping your tips from getting clogged. The best choice of filter will vary. In order to choose the best inlet filter, you need to determine the application it will serve.
Filtration Level
Each filter will be equipped with a screen designed to remove particulates from the water. These screens are rated in mesh sizes, such as 40 mesh or 60 mesh. The mesh count refers to the number of crossing elements in a particular area; the larger the mesh size, the greater the filtration.
In most cases the higher level of filtration would be preferred. However, this is not always true. A high mesh count can cause flow restrictions, and may clog up fast if the water quality is poor. When working from a tank, a lower mesh count may be preferred to protect your pump from water starvation.
Inlet Filtration Application
The use of a direct mount type filter may be preferred when you’re dealing with a direct feed application. The direct mount filters are typically made of a metal to help support the additional stress of the garden hose hanging from it. These filters are smaller in size and have a low debris capacity. Since they are hooked directly to the water supply, the potential for contaminates is low, and does not pose much of a problem.
The use of a canister type filter is preferred when you’re working from a tank. These filters are designed to capture higher levels of debris that may be present in your tank. When working from a tank, the size of your filter matters. It is a good idea to choose a large filter to help in reducing the inlet flow restrictions of water to the pump.
Feed your pump with a large hose, as the water flows more freely to the pump, which allows it to not have to work as hard; this prevents wear on the pump packings or water seals. At minimum, the recommended size would be a 3/4" hose and filter for pumps 4 GPM or less, and 1" for pumps with flows higher than 4 GPM.
For flows over 10 GPM, use a larger filter, or feed the pump on both inlets for best performance. Remember, larger filters are better when feeding your pump.
Maintain Your Filter
The purpose of the filter is to capture debris. Remember to check for debris and clean your filter on a regular basis to achieve its optimal performance level.
