Which BIGFOOT® model fits a ~40 GPM pump: 40G or 80G?

Near the ~40 GPM boundary, sizing up to 80G is often the safer surface-water choice. Algae and debris increase restriction and reduce usable flow; the larger screen area typically extends cleaning intervals.

Can two BIGFOOT® 40G filters be run inline (in series)?

Yes-some operators run dual 40G filters inline as a fully submerged intake to increase debris tolerance. The tradeoff is higher restriction as screens/media load up, so suction-side sealing and maintenance discipline are critical.

How often does a BIGFOOT® intake filter need cleaning?

It depends on algae season, sediment, and placement. Inspect after early runs and then periodically during peak growth. Larger intakes (80G) often go longer between clean-outs in the same water source.

What should be checked first when mid-season coverage drops?

Check intake loading, suction-side sealing, and real pump flow before replacing heads or changing schedules.

Green Guru Blog

BIGFOOT® 40G vs 80G Lake/Pond Pump Intake Filters

Sizing, placement, and maintenance guidance for surface-water irrigation intakes, with a cleaner path from flow range to filter choice.

40 GPM boundary Algae season loading Dual 40G field note Maintenance intervals

Author: Green Guru LLC • Published on Jan 1, 2026 • Last edited on Mar 14, 2026

Compare the models Read the mid-season failure guide

More: Mid-season intake failures · Irrigation repair · Products hub

Quick Answer: Which BIGFOOT® model is safer near 40 GPM?

40G fits pumps comfortably under ~40 GPM in moderate debris. 80G is usually the safer pick near the line, in heavier algae, or when you need longer intervals between clean-outs.

BIGFOOT® is a suction-side intake filter family built for surface-water irrigation pumps drawing from lakes, ponds, rivers, or retention basins. It reduces intake velocity by spreading suction across a wider screen area, which helps reduce clogging while protecting the pump.

Model comparison

Model	Best for	Typical notes (verify)
BIGFOOT® 40G	Pumps <~40 GPM, moderate debris	Smaller screen footprint; more frequent clean-outs during algae spikes
BIGFOOT® 80G	Higher flows, heavy organics, longer intervals	More screen area; typically safer choice near the 40 GPM line
Dual 40G (Series)	Shallow-water or algae-heavy intakes	Two 40G assemblies inline; sealing and restriction management are critical

Selection logic

How to choose between 40G and 80G

Choose for actual flow, debris load, and maintenance tolerance, not just the nominal pump label.

40G: best when flow stays comfortably below ~40 GPM and debris load is moderate.
80G: stronger fit when the source carries heavier algae or the system runs near the upper boundary.
Dual 40G: field-usable in some submerged builds, but only when sealing quality and cleaning discipline stay high.
Service-first rule: confirm intake placement, suction-side sealing, and actual pump flow before changing heads or schedules downstream.

Field note: dual BIGFOOT® 40G inline (series) — fully submerged

We have successfully run two BIGFOOT® 40G filter assemblies inline (in series) as a fully submerged intake (mostly horizontal; one deployment vertical on a steel seawall on Lake Erie), using synthetic filter media matting.

Typical sequence (as built):
Drawline (1½", 2", or 2½") → male adapter → PVC check valve → 2" × 6" PVC threaded nipple → BIGFOOT® 40G Filter A → 2" × 6" nipple coupling → BIGFOOT® 40G Filter B.
Optional: brass 2" foot valve installed inside Filter A on some builds (verify compatibility and serviceability).

Critical cautions

Air leaks kill suction: every threaded suction-side joint must seal perfectly.
Restriction compounds: two filters in series can reduce flow as media loads—monitor and clean.
Valve stacking: avoid check/foot valve conflicts and keep servicing practical.

Placement and maintenance

Keep the intake off the bottom to avoid silt loading.
Inspect after early runs; algae season can load screens rapidly.
Clean screens/media as needed—bigger intake area generally means longer intervals.

BIGFOOT Intake FAQs

Is BIGFOOT available in 40 GPM and 80 GPM models?

Yes. BIGFOOT intake filters are commonly sold in 40G and 80G classes, with fit confirmed against actual field conditions.

Which model fits a pump near 40 GPM?

Near the boundary, sizing up to 80G is often safer for surface-water reliability during algae season.

Can two 40G filters be run inline (series)?

Yes, in some deployments. Suction-side sealing quality and maintenance discipline become critical as restriction loads up.

How often should BIGFOOT intake filters be cleaned?

Intervals depend on algae and sediment conditions. Inspect early and adjust frequency by observed loading behavior.

What should be checked first when coverage drops mid-season?

Check intake loading, suction leaks, and actual pump flow before replacing heads or changing schedules.

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