how do i know what size pool filter i need

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

.

When it comes to purchasing a pool filter, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right size. An improperly sized pool filter can result in poor water quality, ineffective filtration, and increased maintenance costs, which is why it's essential to choose the correct filter size for your pool. In this article, we'll explore how to determine what size pool filter you need, as well as some of the factors to consider when making your selection.

Size Matters: Why Choosing the Right Pool Filter Size is Important

A pool filter has one job: to remove debris and contaminants from your pool water. The size of the filter determines how much water it can handle and how much debris it can remove. If you choose a filter that's too small, it won't be able to keep up with the demands of your pool, resulting in poor filtration and an increased need for maintenance.

On the other hand, if you choose a filter that's too large, you'll end up wasting energy and money by running a filter that's larger than necessary for your pool. Plus, a filter that's too large might not be able to effectively capture smaller debris particles, leading to cloudy water and other water quality issues.

Five Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pool Filter Size

1. Pool Size

The size of your pool is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a filter. As a general rule, your filter should be able to circulate all the water in your pool at least once every eight hours. To determine the appropriate pool filter size, you'll need to know the volume of your pool. To calculate this, multiply the length, width, and average depth of your pool and multiply by 7.5. For example, a pool that's 20 feet long, 10 feet wide, and has an average depth of 5 feet would have a volume of 7,500 gallons.

2. Pump Size

Your pool pump is responsible for circulating water through the filter, so it's essential to choose a filter that's compatible with your pump. If your pump is too small, it won't be able to effectively push water through the filter, and you'll end up with poor filtration. If your pump is too large, you might end up wasting energy and running your pump for longer than necessary.

3. Type of Filter

There are three main types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Each type has its own flow rate and filter media, which will impact the size of the filter you need. Sand filters typically require the largest size, while cartridge filters tend to require the smallest size.

4. Debris Type

The type of debris that tends to accumulate in your pool will also impact the size of the filter you need. If you have a lot of large debris, such as leaves and twigs, you'll need a larger filter to handle the volume. If you have a lot of smaller debris, such as dust and dirt, you'll need a filter with a finer filter media to effectively capture these particles.

5. Bather Load

Finally, the number of people who use your pool will impact the size of the filter you need. The more people who use your pool, the more debris and contaminants will be introduced to the water, which will require a larger filter to keep up with the demand.

Choosing the right size pool filter might seem like a daunting task, but by considering these key factors, you can ensure that you select a filter that's appropriate for your pool's needs. Remember, investing in the right filter size will help you reduce maintenance costs, improve water quality, and enjoy a clean, healthy pool all season long.