how to fix leaking pool filter

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

How to Fix a Leaking Pool Filter

Did you walk outside to find your pool filter leaking water on your deck or lawn? Pool filters are integral parts of ensuring your pool remains clean, and a leak can harm the efficiency of the system. However, dealing with a leaking pool filter is possible, and in this article, we will show you how you can fix it. Read on for helpful advice and tips to fix a leaking pool filter.

Finding the Source of the Leak

How to identify the location and cause of the leak is essential. Before you attempt to fix a leaking pool filter, you must know why it is leaking. The first approach is to switch off the filter and investigate the source of the leak.

Common causes of pool filter leaks are:

- The incorrect filter installation

- Faulty O-rings or gaskets

- A crack in the filter casing

- Corrosion

- Pressure issues

After determining the cause of the leak, check if there are any visible signs of cracks or holes in the filter. If you suspect a more severe problem, such as pressure issues, call for professional assistance.

Repairing O-rings and Gaskets

If you discover a damaged or worn-out gasket or O-ring, you may be able to replace them yourself. You can achieve this by:

- Turn off the swimming pool pump

- Locate and open the multiport valve

- Remove the filter from the tank to access the gasket/O-ring

- Carefully remove the faulty gasket/O-ring with pliers

- Install the new gasket/O-ring

- Reassemble the filter and tank

Ensure that you install the correct size gasket and O-ring. When the size is non-standard, seek professional assistance.

Replacing a Sand Filter

Sand filters are widespread pool filters that require proper maintenance to avoid leaks. With time, the pool filter sand can become compacted or broken, which affects the filter's efficiency and can cause leaks.

To replace the sand filter in your pool system, it's necessary to:

- Shut off the pump and detach any hoses

- Manually remove sand and debris from the filter

- Add the new sand to the filter tank

- Reconnect hoses, reinstall the tank drain cap, and prime the pump

- Test the filter and check it for leaks

Cracked Filter Tank

If your pool filter has a crack, fixing it should be based on the severity of the damage. Small crack repairs can be done using an epoxy putty or patch kit.

To fix a crack:

- Drain the pool filter system

- Dry the filter tank thoroughly

- Sand the cracked area using fine sandpaper

- Squeeze out the putty or apply the patch over the crack

- Sand the patched spot to make it even with the filter tank

- Apply a coat of paint or sealant over the fixed area

- Allow drying thoroughly before turning the pool filter system back on.

Big crack repairs or extensive damage to the filter should be endeavored by specialists.

Conclusion

A leaking pool filter can be a frustrating experience, especially if it has damaged your pool equipment, but do not panic. In this article, we've covered the most common causes of leaks and offered simple and effective methods of fixing them. Remember, with a little knowledge and effort, you can fix a leaking pool filter and save lots of money on repair bills.