why pool filter pressure low

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

When it comes to maintaining your pool, one of the most important aspects is the pool filter. The filter is what keeps the water clean and clear for swimming, so if you notice that your pool filter pressure is low, it can be a cause for concern. In this article, we'll explore some of the reasons why pool filter pressure might be low and what you can do to fix it.

Understanding Pool Filter Pressure

Before we dive into the reasons why pool filter pressure might be low, it's important to understand what pool filter pressure is and why it matters. Pool filter pressure is the measure of how hard your pool pump is working to circulate water through your pool's filtration system. When your pool filter pressure is low, it means that your pump isn't working as hard as it should be, which could be a sign that something is wrong.

Reasons Why Pool Filter Pressure Might be Low

1. Dirty or Clogged Filter

One of the most common reasons why pool filter pressure might be low is that the filter itself is dirty or clogged. Over time, debris and other contaminants will build up in your pool filter, which can make it difficult for water to pass through. This will cause the pool pump to work harder than it needs to, leading to low filter pressure.

To fix this issue, you'll need to clean your pool filter. Remove the filter from your pool's filtration system and use a hose to rinse away any dirt or debris. You may also need to soak the filter in a cleaning solution to get rid of stubborn contaminants.

2. Air Leaks in Your Filtration System

Another possible cause of low pool filter pressure is air leaks in your pool's filtration system. Air leaks can occur in a number of different places, including the pool pump, skimmer, and suction line. When there is an air leak, it can cause a drop in pressure and make it difficult for water to flow through the system.

To fix this issue, you'll need to locate the air leak and seal it. This may require the help of a professional pool technician, especially if the leak is in a hard-to-reach area.

3. Broken or Worn out Pool Pump

If your pool filter pressure is consistently low, it could be a sign that your pool pump is broken or worn out. A broken or worn out pool pump will not be able to circulate water effectively, which can cause low filter pressure.

To determine if your pool pump is the problem, you'll need to have it inspected by a pool technician. If it's determined that the pump needs to be replaced, you'll need to invest in a new one to restore proper pool filter pressure.

4. Pool Chemical Imbalance

Sometimes, the cause of low pool filter pressure is not related to the pool's filtration system at all. In some cases, a chemical imbalance in the pool can cause the filter pressure to drop.

To fix this issue, you'll need to test your pool's water and adjust the chemical levels as needed. This may require adding more chlorine, adjusting the pH level, or adding other chemicals.

5. Oversized Pool Pump

Finally, it's possible that your pool pump is actually too big for your pool, which can cause low filter pressure. An oversized pool pump will circulate water too quickly, which can cause the filter pressure to drop.

To fix this issue, you'll need to have your pool pump replaced with a smaller, more appropriately-sized model that can circulate water at the proper rate.

Conclusion

When your pool filter pressure is low, it's important to act quickly to identify the cause and fix the issue. Whether it's a simple cleaning or a more complex repair, restoring proper pool filter pressure is essential for keeping your pool clean, clear, and safe for swimming. By understanding the common causes of low pool filter pressure and taking the necessary steps to fix the issue, you can ensure that your pool remains a refreshing oasis all season long.