18″ Star Cover & Frame White | P18101

Description

The AquaStar P18101 18-Inch Square Star Suction Outlet Cover and Frame Assembly provides a large anti-entrapment drain-cover system for compatible concrete swimming pools and spas. The assembly combines one 18-inch-square mud frame with four individually removable 9-inch-square Star covers and four vented riser rings.

The four-cover configuration distributes suction across an approximately 160.8-square-inch combined opening area. This broad surface helps reduce concentrated suction while supporting high circulation rates in residential, commercial and institutional aquatic facilities.

Published product specifications list a maximum flow of 740 GPM for either floor or wall installations at an opening velocity of approximately 1.5 feet per second. The same opening area corresponds to approximately 501.2 GPM at an opening velocity of 1 foot per second.

The complete assembly requires a compliant sump with a minimum depth of 6 inches. Actual allowable flow depends on the certified sump geometry, plumbing configuration, installation orientation and documentation corresponding to the assembly’s manufacturing date.

Each 9-inch-square Star cover is installed over a vented riser ring. The rings maintain the required spacing and flow geometry between the covers, mud frame and sump while allowing water to reach the suction opening beneath the assembly.

The four individual covers attach using sixteen manufacturer-specified 316 stainless-steel screws, with four screws securing each cover. Every required mounting point must be used so the covers remain secure during system operation.

The assembly can replace compatible AquaStar standard 18-inch-square frames and certain American Products or Pentair window-grid frames approximately 3/4 inch deep. Supported frames generally use a two-by-two arrangement with four 9-inch cover openings and an approximately 8-1/4-inch screw pattern for each cover.

The covers, riser rings and frame are manufactured from UV-resistant engineered polymer designed for prolonged exposure to sunlight, treated pool water and outdoor conditions. The white finish coordinates with plaster, quartz, aggregate and other light-colored pool surfaces.

A visible compliance button on applicable legacy models allows the installed cover family to be identified from the pool or spa deck. Certification requirements and markings may vary according to manufacturing date.

This suction outlet assembly is a critical life-safety component. It must be installed according to AquaStar instructions, the certification documents applicable to the manufacturing date, VGBA requirements, local codes and the pool or spa hydraulic design.

AquaStar specifies replacement of the covers no later than five years after installation, or sooner if any cover becomes cracked, warped, brittle, loose, discolored or otherwise damaged.