how much earth in pool filter

How Much Earth in Pool Filter?

A common question that pool owners ask is: "How much earth should I put in my pool filter?" The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the size of your pool, the type of filter you have, and the cleanliness of your pool water. This article will explore the various factors that influence how much earth should be put in a pool filter and provide some tips on how to keep your pool filter running efficiently.

Understanding Pool Filters

The first step in understanding how much earth to put in your pool filter is to understand the different types of pool filters available. The three most common types of pool filters are sand filters, cartridge filters, and earth filters.

Sand filters are the most common type of pool filter and use sand as the filter medium. The sand in the filter traps and removes dirt and debris from the pool water.

Cartridge filters use a replaceable paper cartridge as the filter medium. The cartridge traps and removes debris from the pool water.

Earth filters, also known as diatomaceous earth (DE) filters, use a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms as the filter medium. The powder is spread over a mesh screen inside the filter tank and traps and removes debris from the pool water.

How Much Earth to Use in Your Pool Filter?

The amount of earth you should use in your pool filter depends on the size of your pool and the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific pool filter. Most manufacturer's will have a recommended amount of earth to use for their pool filter. It's important to follow these guidelines to ensure proper filtration and to prevent damage to the pool filter.

To calculate the appropriate amount of earth for your pool filter, you will need to know the size of your pool in gallons and the recommended pounds per square foot of earth for your filter. Generally, for DE filters, the recommended amount of earth is 1 pound per square foot of filter area.

For example, if you have a 20,000-gallon pool and a 48 square foot DE filter, you would need to use approximately 48 pounds of DE earth.

Maintaining Your Pool Filter

Once you've determined the appropriate amount of earth to use in your pool filter, it's essential to maintain your filter to keep it running efficiently.

1. Clean Your Pool Filter Regularly

Cleaning your pool filter regularly is important to prevent debris from building up in the filter and reducing its effectiveness. For sand and cartridge filters, cleaning involves backwashing the filter. For DE filters, cleaning involves a process called bumping or backwashing followed by adding fresh earth to the filter.

2. Keep Your Pool Water Balanced

Imbalanced pool water can cause deposits to build up in your pool filter, reducing its effectiveness. Keep your pool water balanced by testing it regularly and adjusting chemical levels as needed.

3. Check Your Filter Pressure Gauge

One of the easiest ways to know when to clean your pool filter is to check the pressure gauge on your filter. When the pressure gauge indicates a pressure increase of 8-10 PSI above the starting pressure, it's time to either backwash or clean your filter.

4. Replace Your Filter as Needed

Even with regular maintenance, pool filters will eventually wear out and need replacing. Make sure to replace your filter as needed to ensure proper filtration and prevent damage to your pool equipment.

5. Hire a Pool Professional

If you're not comfortable maintaining your pool filter or want to ensure that it is being properly maintained, consider hiring a pool professional to handle your pool maintenance. They can help you determine the appropriate amount of earth for your pool filter and ensure that it is running efficiently.

Conclusion

How much earth you should use in your pool filter depends on the type of filter you have, the size of your pool, and the manufacturer's recommendations. Follow these guidelines and maintain your pool filter regularly to keep your pool water clean and clear all season long.