how to size cartridge pool filter

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

Introduction

Swimming pools are a fantastic way to relax, cool off, and enjoy some outdoor fun during the hot summer months. While owning and maintaining a swimming pool can be a fantastic experience, there are a few critical elements that you must monitor to ensure the water stays clean and healthy. One of these is the swimming pool filter. The size and type of filter that you choose for your pool will determine the effectiveness and efficiency of your pool system. In this article, we'll explore how to size a cartridge pool filter.

Why is Size Important?

Proper sizing of your pool filter is important for several reasons. The filter's size will determine how effectively it can remove impurities and debris from your pool water; if your filter is too small, it won't be able to keep up with the workload. This can result in murky, cloudy water and increased demands on your pool's chemical treatment system. Proper sizing ensures that your pool remains clear and healthy with the least amount of effort.

Step One: Determine Your Pool's Water Volume

The first step in sizing a cartridge pool filter is to determine your pool's water volume accurately. You'll need to calculate both the main pool and any additional water features such as hot tubs or waterfalls. To calculate the volume of water, use this formula:

Pool Volume = Length x Width x Average Depth x 7.5

Average depth is calculated by measuring the depth at three points: shallow, deep, and midpoint. Add these three depths together and divide by three.

Step Two: Determine Your Pool's Turnover Rate

The next step is to calculate the turnover rate of your pool. Turnover rate refers to the amount of time it takes for your pool system to circulate all of the water in your pool once. This calculation is critical in determining the correct size of your pool filter.

Turnover Rate = Pool Volume / Filter Flow Rate

To determine the flow rate of your filter, consult the manufacturer's specifications.

Step Three: Choose the Right Size Filter

Once you have your turnover rate, you can choose the right size cartridge pool filter for your pool. As a general rule, your filter should have a flow rate that is greater than your pool's turnover rate. This means that the water in your pool can be filtered more than once during the filtering period.

When choosing the right size of cartridge pool filter, consider the following factors:

- Pool size

- Filter type

- Brand

- Price

Step Four: Maintenance and Cleaning

After selecting and installing your cartridge pool filter, it's critical to keep it in excellent working condition. Proper maintenance ensures your filter runs efficiently and effectively.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and replacing cartridges. A general guideline is to clean your filter cartridge every two weeks, or when the filter pressure increases by 10 psi. A dirty cartridge filter can result in low flow rates and increased stress on the pool's circulation system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a properly sized cartridge pool filter is critical to maintaining a healthy and clean swimming pool. Choosing the right size filter ensures effective filtering while reducing demands on the chemical treatment system. By selecting the correct size filter, following safe installation practices, and maintaining your filter regularly, you'll enjoy crystal clear water all summer long.