Pool Filter System

First, it’s good to know a few things about your pool filter system. There are three types of pool filters: sand; cartridge; and diatomaceous earth (DE). Sand is the cheapest, then cartridge, and DE filters are the most expensive. DE provides the best water clarity, followed by a cartridge, then sand. Depending on the size and style of your pool filter, you can reap energy savings by reducing the time and energy your pump must spend to cycle the water through the whole purification system.

If your pool filter system is running at a high pressure, try backwashing the system. If you have a sand filter system, the filter may be clogged with mineral deposits that will not backwash away. If this is the case, try removing about an inch of the top layer of sand and replacing it with clean sand. You can prevent mineral buildup in your filter by backwashing more frequently. If mineral build up is not the problem, try cleaning your pool filter system with a specialty cleaner that you can get at any pool dealer. Also, check to see if there is a closed or partially closed valve along the system’s return piping. If so, clear the valve out. Finally, your pool pump may be too small for your filter. Check both the pump and filter specifications, and replace your pump if necessary.

If there is sand at the bottom of your pool, you are likely using sand that is too small for your filter or using too much sand. Refer to your owners’ manual for the correct type and amount of sand. Alternately, the pump may be to large for the filter. Another problem could be a loose lateral at the bottom of the filter. Tighten any laterals and replace those that are broken.

If your pool filter system uses a cartridge filter, you might notice that it will not clear algae from the pool. Chances are the problem does not lie with your filter, but with your chemicals. Sometimes, however, the problem is caused by worn components in the filter. Check all parts and replace those that are worn out or broken.

A pool filter system that uses a DE filter requires a little extra attention and care with problems that arise. If you notice that the system is running at high pressure, you need to backwash or regenerate the filter. If the system pressure is still to high, check to make sure that the pump is not too large for the system. If your DE filter short cycles, even after backwashing, check to make sure it hasn’t accumulated chemical deposits. If this is the case, replace the diatomaceous earth. As well, biguancide based sanitizers can cause short cycling.

If you want to ensure your pool is clean and clear when you use it, you must take good care of your pool filter system. Preventing problems, and noticing them and taking care of them right away, will ensure that the pool filter system is able to keep your pool clean and safe for your use.