why is my pool filter rust colored

Why is My Pool Filter Rust Colored: Causes and Solutions

If you've pulled off your pool's filter and noticed a brown, rusty color coating its interior walls, there is no need to panic. However, the rusted pool filter should not be ignored as it can ultimately impact the water's sanitation in your pool. That said, it is important to understand why it turned rusty and what you can do to solve the issue. In this article, we will be discussing the causes of rust-colored pool filters and the available measures to address the issue.

What Causes Rust-Colored Pool Filters?

Understanding the causes of rust-colored pool filters is critical in identifying and resolving the issue. Let's take a look at some of the possible reasons below.

1. High Metals Content in Your Pool

If there is a high concentration of metals, such as iron, copper, or manganese in your pool water, the metal molecules will accumulate in the filter cartridge's fabrics, causing the rust-like coloration. The filtered metals react with the pool's chlorine and change colors from black to brown or yellow. When the concentration of metals is high, you can experience this effect much faster.

2. Age of Your Filter

The age of your pool filter is another culprit for the rust coloration. Over time, your pool filter fabric can degrade and allow metals to accumulate on the filter surfaces. This will create a brown or yellow rust-like coating on your pool filter. According to pool experts, most filters have a lifespan of up to 10 years; if adequately maintained, some can last up to 15 years.

3. High pH Level in Your Pool

The pH level of the pool can influence the rate at which iron dissolves. Unlike in acidic conditions, in high pH levels, iron is more prone to form carbonate complexes, which can lead to more iron deposits in your pool filter.

4. Iron in Your Source Water

Iron-rich source water can also lead to a rusty pool filter. If you fill your pool with well water, it could be high in iron concentration. As you filter the water through your pool system, the iron can eventually coat your pool filter and cause the rust coloring.

5. Environmental Factors

When pool water evaporates, what’s left behind accumulates inside your pool's filter, including dirt, iron, and minerals. If you live in a particularly dusty area, dirt levels can be higher, and your filter will be working harder to keep the pool clean; eventually, particles can build up and clog the filter.

How to Remove Rust from Your Pool Filter

Now that you understand what may cause rust coloration in your pool filter let's briefly touch on how to clean it up.

1. Clean and Acid Wash Your Pool Filter

If your pool filter has accumulated rust-like coloration, the best course of action is to remove the filter, clean it, and acid wash it. Please note that the acid wash process should be performed properly by a professional, as it involves the use of acidic solutions that could be hazardous.

2. Use a Metal Sequestrant Product

Metal sequestrants are pool chemicals that bind with metal molecules in your pool water, preventing them from depositing in your pool filter. Using pool maintenance products like metal sequestrants is a great way to prevent rust-like coloration in your pool filter.

3. Regular Maintenance of Your Pool Filter

Regular maintenance of your pool filter is necessary to avoid rust-like coloration. For example, backwash your filter frequently to ensure that it stays clean and avoid letting metallic debris accumulate inside the filter.

4. Keep Pool Water pH Balanced

Ensure your pool water's pH level is balanced to avoid rust accumulations in your pool filter. The ideal pH level for pools is between 7.2 to 7.8.

Conclusion

Rust-colored pool filters can be unsightly and indicate that your pool's water chemistry is unbalanced. Now that you are well-informed about the potential causes of rust coloration in your pool filter, and the available solutions to stop and prevent it, you can keep your pool crystal clear, and your swimming experience as it should be – fun and relaxing.