how often pool filter run

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

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Pool filters are an essential aspect of maintaining a swimming pool. They play an important role in cleaning the water by removing debris, dirt, and other contaminants. However, a crucial concern when it comes to pool filters is how often should they run.

In this article, we will address this issue and delve deeper into the other aspects related to pool filters. Whether you are a pool owner or a technician hired to maintain one, this article will give you valuable insights into pool filters.

Why do pool filters need to run?

Before we look at how often pool filters should run, it's good to understand why filters need to run. When water is heated, it creates an environment that promotes the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Add to that the debris and dirt that can enter the pool, and you have a perfect breeding ground for microorganisms.

This is where a pool filter comes in. A pool filter's primary function is to remove contaminants and debris from the water. It pumps the water through a filter media that traps these particles, leaving clean water to recirculate through the pool.

How often should pool filters run?

The general recommendation for pool filters is to run them for at least eight hours a day. However, this can vary depending on the size of the pool, the type of filter, and the number of swimmers.

1. Pool size

The size of your pool plays a vital role in determining how long you should run your filter. The larger the pool, the more time it takes for the water to circulate through the filter. Therefore, you need to run the filter for a more extended period to ensure that the water is adequately filtered.

2. Type of filter

There are three types of pool filters; sand, cartridge, and DE filters. Each filter type has a different filtration capacity and flow rate, which affects how long you should run your filter.

- Sand filters: Sand filters trap particles through a layer of sand referred to as the filter media. They are the most commonly used pool filter and require backwashing periodically. You should run a sand filter for at least eight hours a day.

- Cartridge filters: Cartridge filters trap contaminants and debris on a pleated polyester fabric that you can remove and clean. They have a higher filtration capacity than sand filters and require less maintenance. You should run a cartridge filter for at least six hours a day.

- DE filters: Diatomaceous earth filters are the most efficient type of pool filter. They coat a fabric grid with diatomaceous earth, trapping the smallest particles. DE filters only require four to six hours of running time daily.

3. Number of swimmers

The number of swimmers in your pool also affects how often you should run your filter. If you have a large group of people using the pool, the filter will have to work harder to keep the water clean. In such cases, it's advisable to run the filter for more than eight hours.

Factors that affect how long you should run your pool filter

Apart from the size of the pool, type of filter, and number of swimmers, here are other factors that affect how long you should run your pool filter:

- Temperature: High temperatures promote microorganism growth, which leaves your pool water cloudy and unsafe for swimming. In such cases, you may need to run your filter for more extended periods.

- Trees and bushes: If you have trees and bushes near your pool, leaves, and other debris can enter the water, clogging your filter. If this happens, you may need to run your filter for longer until you clear the debris.

- Rainy season: During the rainy season, debris from the surrounding areas can make its way into your pool, reducing the efficiency of your filter. During such times, you may adjust the filter time accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, how often a pool filter should run depends on several factors such as pool size, filter type, weather, and more. You should also ensure that the filter is functioning correctly and clean the filter media periodically to maintain its efficiency. By adhering to these guidelines, your pool will always have sparkling clean water that is safe for swimming.