how many square feet is my pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Determine How Many Square Feet Your Pool Filter Is

If you're a pool owner, then you know the importance of keeping your pool clean and well-maintained. A pool filter is an essential part of this maintenance, as it helps remove debris and contaminants from your pool water. But do you know how many square feet your pool filter is? Knowing this information is important for proper maintenance and replacement. In this article, we will explain how to determine the square footage of your pool filter.

Understanding Pool Filter Types

There are three types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Each type has different square footage requirements, and they are not interchangeable. Understanding what type of filter you have is the first step in determining the square footage.

Sand Filters

Sand filters are the most common type of pool filter. They are simple to operate and maintain, making them a popular choice for pool owners. The square footage of a sand filter is determined by the diameter of the tank and the type of sand used. The average square footage for a sand filter ranges from 1.4 to 4.9 square feet.

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters are a popular alternative to sand filters. They are easier to clean and maintain, making them a more environmentally friendly option. The square footage of a cartridge filter is determined by the length and diameter of the cartridge. The average square footage for a cartridge filter ranges from 25 to 500 square feet.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters

DE filters are the least common type of pool filter. They are highly effective at removing debris and contaminants from pool water. The square footage of a DE filter is determined by the diameter of the tank and the amount of DE used. The average square footage for a DE filter ranges from 24 to 60 square feet.

Calculating Square Footage

Now that you understand the types of pool filters and their square footage ranges, it's time to determine the square footage of your filter. The following steps will guide you through this process:

Step 1: Determine the Filter Type

The first step is to determine what type of filter you have. Refer to the section above to help you identify the type of filter you have.

Step 2: Measure the Tank Diameter

Using a tape measure, measure the diameter of the filter tank. This measurement will be used to calculate the square footage of the filter.

Step 3: Determine the Formula

Use the following formulas to calculate the square footage of your filter based on the filter type:

Sand filter: (Diameter² x .785) x 1.4 = Square Footage

Cartridge filter: (Length x Diameter) / 2 = Square Footage

DE filter: (Diameter² x .785) x 2.5 = Square Footage

For example, if you have a sand filter with a tank diameter of 24 inches, the formula would look like this:

(24² x .785) x 1.4 = 790.08

Therefore, the square footage of your sand filter is 790.08 square feet.

Step 4: Keep Records

Make sure to keep a record of the square footage of your pool filter. This information is important when it comes time to replace your filter, as it will help you choose the appropriate replacement filter.

Conclusion

Knowing how many square feet your pool filter is can save you time, money, and headaches. By understanding the different types of pool filters and their square footage requirements, you can easily calculate the square footage of your filter. Keep records of your filter's square footage to ensure proper maintenance and replacement when needed. Remember, a clean pool is a happy pool!