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How to mount a heavy pool pump control box?

Mick_M

I need to remount a heavy (6kg?) control box for a pool pump as the old wooden post failed. I’m looking at concreting in a strong vertical post, and need to attach the metal mounting plate to the post, allowing the control box to slot onto to the plate. The mounting plate is about 22cm W x 30cm H.

Challenge: the gap between the pool pump and fence doesn’t give a lot of space to work with - about 40cm wide. For a timber post I’m looking at H4 treated timber, and the smallest size I could find (100x100mm) would mean digging a big hole in a small area to get enough concrete around the base.

Would it be better to use a metal fence post instead? What fixing method and bolts/screws would be best to make sure the bracket and box are secure and don’t corrode, noting the heavy weight?

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EricL

Hello @Mick_M

If you are after a steel post, I propose looking at the following materials:

In order to possibly dig a hole for the post, I suggest using a ToughBuilt Post Hole Digger or a Cyclone 100mm Post Hole Digger Earth Auger. Both are manual diggers as there is limited space in the spot that you mentioned. However, as a possible alternative, I propose looking at the possibility of relocating the post in another section on the other side where you can dig a larger post hole.

As a possible secondary project, I recommend having a look at this guide - How to build a pool pump cover. The positive effect of building a cover for your pool pump is that the controller can be mounted onto the framing or wall of the pump cover.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @Noyade and @DIY4Knuckleheds for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Dave-1

Good Evening @Mick_M

You are between a rock and a hard place :/ I think your best option is to move it to the other side of the filter :/ The main reason is when mounted where you were originally thinking (and looking at the conduit) it actually provides a climbing surface to help get over the fence :/ Plus when digging a new post I think you will have a fair chance of hitting that conduit on the way down.

A junction box fed horizontally across will solve those issues and let you dig a decent hole for the new box.

I have used the earth screw posts and they do a reasonable job if they dont hit a rock or something, then they kind of strip the earth hole. I used a 450mm drill bit to check for rocks and even then it wasnt deep enough as I hit soapstone just after that depth lol

Otter 690 x 90mm Ground Screw Stirrup

Dave

Nailbag

Hi @Mick_M

I agree with @Dave-1. It will make it much easier if you can install the controller on the right side of the filter system if the cables allow. And it would also allow for a steel post which will have a longer lifespan over timber.

Nailbag

Mick_M

Thanks guys. Just a question on fixings. That metal backing plate will be fixed vertically to the post, so will two of those TEKS screws be enough to fix that metal backing plate directly onto a 50mm wide metal post, given the weight of the box? I've done plenty of woodwork but less experienced at fixing things into metal, and want to be sure they're really secure. Cheers.

Dave-1

Good afternoon @Mick_M

ahhhh not sure which Tek screws you are referring to but id use at least four of screws into a post to support 6kgs. If the depth is short then more screws, if the depth ofthe screw is long then 4.

Dave

Mick_M

Hi @Dave-1 - I was referring to the ones @EricL recommended; the Buildex 8G or 12G ones. Screwing these into a hollow metal post, I'm wondering about the holding strength or the potential for them to lose grip and slip out over time. Because of the existing holes in the backing plate, if I was to mount it centrally on a 50mm post, I'd only be able to use 2 screws. Sounds like I might need to drill additional holes in the backing plate if 2 isn't enough?

EricL

Hello @Mick_M

Yes, it will be necessary for you to add perhaps two extra screws to secure the control box. Therefore, you'll need to drill two extra mounting holes on the back plate of the control box.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric