when is the best time to run pool filter

When Is the Best Time to Run Pool Filter

Owning a swimming pool means you have to take care of it, especially when you want to maintain its beauty and cleanliness. One of the most important components to ensure pool cleanliness is the filter. However, aside from having a filter system, the time of running it is also essential to extend its lifespan and work effectively.

In this article, we will discuss the best time to run your pool filter and how it can benefit your pool.

How does a pool filter work?

Before we dive into the best time to run your pool filter, let us first understand how it works. A pool filter is a device that helps to remove debris, dirt, and other contaminants in the water to keep it clean and safe for swimming.

Basically, the filter works by getting the water from the pool and passing it through a bed of filter media, which can be sand, diatomaceous earth, or cartridge. These filter media trap dirt and debris, allowing the filtered water to return to the pool while the dirt and debris remain in the filter.

How long should you run your pool filter?

To maintain a clean and healthy swimming pool, it is recommended to run your pool filter for eight to twelve hours a day or at least four hours during the day and four hours at night. Running the filter for long hours ensures that all the water in the pool passes through the filter system, allowing the filter media to trap all the dirt and debris.

Moreover, pool experts suggest running the filter during the day because it is when most swimmers are using the pool, and as a result, debris and contaminants accumulate more during this time. Running the filter during the night when nobody is using the pool is not necessary, unless you have a high bather load the day before.

When is the best time to run your pool filter?

Now that we know how long we should run our pool filter, let’s talk about the best time to run it. As mentioned earlier, running the filter during the day is a better option than at night. However, there are more factors to consider when determining the best time to run your filter.

1. Electricity rates

In some areas, electricity rates are higher during the day compared to at night. Running your pool filter during off-peak hours can save you money on your electric bill.

2. Heat

During hot and sunny days, the pool water evaporates more, leading to a higher concentration of contaminants in the water. Running the filter during the day can help to remove these contaminants to keep the pool water clean.

3. Wind

The wind can carry dirt, debris, and leaves into your pool, making the water dirty. If you live in a windy area, it’s best to run your filter during the day to remove these contaminants immediately.

4. Bather load

If you have a lot of swimmers using the pool, it’s best to run the filter during the day and night to keep the water clean throughout the day.

5. Chemicals

Chemicals such as chlorine work best during the day when exposed to sunlight. Running the filter during the day can help to circulate these chemicals, allowing them to work more effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best time to run your pool filter is during the day when the swimmers are using the pool, and the sun is shining. Running the filter for eight to twelve hours a day is recommended, but this can be adjusted depending on your bather load, wind conditions, chemical levels, and electricity rates.

Moreover, do not forget to maintain your filter system by cleaning or replacing the filter media regularly. Taking care of your pool filter allows it to work effectively, prolongs its lifespan, and keeps your pool water clean and healthy.