why does pool filter pressure keep rising

Why Does Pool Filter Pressure Keep Rising?

If you are a pool owner, you know how important it is to keep your pool clean and healthy. One of the essential pieces of equipment in maintaining your pool is the pool filter. It helps to keep the water clean and free of debris.

However, sometimes you may notice that the pressure on your pool filter keeps rising, and you might not know why. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the reasons why pool filter pressure can increase and what you can do to prevent it.

What is Pool Filter Pressure?

Pool filter pressure refers to the amount of pressure the water is under when it is moving through the filter. It is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and is an essential factor in determining if the filter is working correctly.

An average pool filter should have a PSI reading of between 8 and 12. If the pressure rises above this range, it can indicate a problem that needs to be addressed.

Reasons Why Pool Filter Pressure Keeps Rising

There are several reasons why pool filter pressure may keep rising. These include:

1. Dirty or Clogged Filter

One of the most common reasons why pool filter pressure increases is a dirty or clogged filter. When the filter becomes clogged with debris and dirt, it creates an obstruction in the water flow, which causes the pressure to rise.

To avoid this, you should clean your filter regularly. Depending on the filter type, you should clean it every 1-3 months. If you notice a sudden increase in filter pressure, it’s an indicator that the filter needs to be cleaned.

2. Oversized Pool Pump

Another reason why pool filter pressure can increase is if you have an oversized pool pump. If the pump is larger than what the pool requires, it can create a higher water flow, which increases the pressure.

To prevent this, ensure that you have the right size pump for your pool. If you are unsure what size pump you need, consult with a pool professional.

3. Clogged Skimmer Baskets and Pump Strainer

A clogged skimmer basket and pump strainer can also cause pool filter pressure to rise. They serve as the first line of defense against debris and can easily become clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris.

To avoid this, clean the skimmer basket and pump strainer regularly. Once they are clean, the water will flow more freely, which will decrease the pressure on the filter.

4. Closed Pool Return Valves

If one or more pool return valves are closed, it can cause an increase in pressure. Closed valves create an obstruction in the water flow, which causes the pressure to rise.

To prevent this, ensure that all pool return valves are fully opened.

5. Backwash Issues

Lastly, insufficient backwashing of the filter can also cause the pool filter pressure to increase. Backwashing helps to clean the filter and remove debris and dirt. If the filter is not backwashed regularly, it can become clogged, which increases the pressure.

To avoid this, backwash your filter regularly. How often you should do it depends on the filter type, and you can find guidance on your filter manual.

Conclusion

Maintaining your pool filter ensures that it functions correctly and keeps your pool clean and safe. If you notice that the pool filter pressure keeps rising, investigate it to learn the cause and address it promptly.

Regular cleaning is the most crucial aspect of pool filter maintenance. Consult with a pool professional to ensure that you are clean and maintaining the filter correctly.