what does recirculate mean on a pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

What Does Recirculate Mean on a Pool Filter?

You may have noticed that your pool filter has a setting called "recirculate." But what exactly does this mean, and when should you use it? In this article, we'll dive into the details of recirculating your pool water and explore its benefits and drawbacks.

1. Understanding Recirculation

Recirculation is a setting on pool filters that diverts water from the pool's main circulation system and returns it directly to the pool. This means that the water is not being filtered or treated in any way while it's being recirculated.

2. Reasons to Use Recirculation

There are several reasons why you might want to use the recirculation setting on your pool filter. One common reason is to mix in chemicals or treatment products more evenly throughout the pool. By recirculating the water, you can ensure that the entire pool is getting the treatment it needs.

Another reason to use recirculation is if your pool's primary circulation system is not functioning properly. If there's an issue with the filter or pump, recirculating the water can help keep it moving until you can get the problem fixed.

3. Potential Drawbacks

While there are benefits to recirculating your pool water, there are also potential drawbacks to keep in mind. One of the main drawbacks is that recirculation does not filter or sanitize the water. This means that any bacteria or debris in the water will not be removed while it's being recirculated.

Another potential drawback is that recirculation can disrupt the water's natural flow and distribution. Because the water is not being filtered or treated, it may become stagnant in certain areas of the pool, which can lead to algae growth and other issues.

4. When to Use Recirculation

So when is the best time to use the recirculation setting on your pool filter? As mentioned earlier, using recirculation can be helpful when you need to mix chemicals or treat the pool more evenly. Additionally, it can be a good temporary solution if your primary filtration system is down for maintenance or repairs.

However, it's important to avoid relying on recirculation as a long-term solution for filtration or treatment. If your filter or pump is not working properly, it's best to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid letting the water become stagnant or contaminated.

5. Other Pool Filter Settings

While recirculation is one of the settings on most pool filters, it's certainly not the only one. Depending on your filter model, you may also have options like backwash, rinse, and waste. Each of these settings serves a specific purpose in the filtration and maintenance process, so it's important to understand when and how to use each one.

Conclusion

Recirculation is a helpful tool for mixing chemicals and treating your pool water more evenly, but it's important to use it wisely and not rely on it as a long-term filtration solution. By understanding the various settings on your pool filter and using them as needed, you can keep your pool clean and healthy for years to come.