how much earth to put in pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How Much Earth to Put in Pool Filter

If you’re a pool owner or someone who regularly performs maintenance on a pool, you’ve probably asked yourself at some point, “How much earth should I put in my pool filter?” This is an important question to answer, as the right amount of earth can keep your pool clean and extend the life of your pool filter. In this article, we’ll explore how much earth to put in pool filters and why it matters.

Understanding Earth in Pool Filters

Pool filters rely on a medium that helps to trap small particles and contaminants that can make your pool water cloudy or dirty. Earth (also known as diatomaceous earth or DE) is a popular filtering medium that is made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. These tiny particles form a gritty, powdery substance that is highly effective at filtering even the smallest particles and impurities.

One of the benefits of earth as a pool filter medium is that it is renewable and environmentally friendly. However, it’s important to use the right amount of earth in your pool filter to keep it working effectively.

How Much Earth to Put in a Pool Filter

The amount of earth you should put in your pool filter depends on the size of your filter and the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, a general rule of thumb is to use one pound of earth for every 10 square feet of filter area. For example, if your pool filter is 60 square feet, you should use six pounds of earth.

The manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific pool filter can be found in the owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website. It’s important to follow these guidelines carefully, as using too little earth can result in poor filtration and using too much can cause clogs and reduce the life of your filter.

Calculating the Right Amount of Earth for Your Pool Filter

To calculate the right amount of earth for your pool filter, you’ll need to know the filter’s square footage. This information should be on the filter or in the owner’s manual. Once you have this information, you can use the following formula:

(filter square footage) ÷ 10 = pounds of earth to use

For example, if your filter is 60 square feet:

60 ÷ 10 = 6

Therefore, you should use six pounds of earth in your filter.

Tips for Adding Earth to Pool Filters

Adding earth to your pool filter can be a messy process. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

- Wear old clothes and protective gloves and goggles.

- Use a clean, flat area to pour the earth on.

- Use a scoop to add the earth to the filter slowly.

- Don’t overfill the filter. Leave some space at the top to allow for proper filtration.

- Use clean water to rinse any leftover earth off your skin and clothes.

Maintaining Your Pool Filter

In addition to adding the right amount of earth to your pool filter, it’s important to regularly maintain and clean your filter. Experts recommend cleaning your filter at least every three months to keep it working efficiently. Here are some tips for maintaining your pool filter:

- Backwash the filter regularly to remove any debris and trapped particles.

- Use a filter cleaner to break down oils, lotions, and other contaminants that can build up in the filter.

- Inspect the filter regularly for signs of damage or wear.

- Replace the filter when necessary to ensure maximum filtration efficiency.

Conclusion

Using the right amount of earth in your pool filter is critical to maintaining clean and clear pool water. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use our tips to ensure that your pool filter works as efficiently as possible. With regular maintenance and proper care, your pool filter can last for many years, keeping your pool sparkling clean and enjoyable for everyone to use.