should i leave pool filter on all the time

Should I Leave Pool Filter On All the Time?

Have you ever found yourself wondering whether or not you should keep your pool filter running 24/7? Knowing when to run your filter can have a big impact on your pool’s overall cleanliness as well as your energy bill. Here, we’ll discuss the benefits and drawbacks of leaving your pool filter on all the time and explain the ideal times to run your filter.

What Does a Pool Filter Do?

Before we dive into whether or not to leave your pool filter on all the time, let’s discuss what a pool filter actually does. A pool filter removes debris, dirt, and other contaminants from your pool water. When water flows through the filter, it captures and removes any particles in the water. This purifies the water, making it safe for swimming.

Benefits of Leaving Your Pool Filter On All the Time

Having your pool filter running 24/7 does have its benefits. Here are a few reasons why leaving your pool filter on all the time could be useful:

1. It Keeps the Water Clear: When your pool filter runs continuously, it ensures that your water stays clean and clear. This means you won’t have to clean it as often or worry about buildup.

2. It Reduces Chemical Use: A clean pool will require fewer chemicals to maintain the right pH levels. Running your pool filter all the time ensures that the water is clean and balanced, reducing the need for extra chemicals.

3. It Prevents Algae Growth: When water isn’t moving, algae can grow and spread quickly. Keeping your pool filter running all the time ensures that your water is constantly circulating, which discourages the growth of algae.

Drawbacks of Leaving Your Pool Filter On All the Time

While having your pool filter running all the time can be beneficial, it also has its drawbacks. Here are a few reasons why you might not want to keep your filter running continuously:

1. It Increases Energy Costs: Running your pool filter 24/7 can increase your energy bill significantly. The cost can vary by location and pool size, but it’s safe to say that you’ll see an increase in your electricity usage.

2. It Puts Extra Pressure on Your Pump: Running your pool filter all the time will increase the wear and tear on your pump. This could cause it to break down faster and require more repairs, which can be costly.

3. It Increases Wear on Your Filter: As with your pump, leaving your pool filter on all the time will cause it to wear down faster. Running your filter continuously could cause extra strain on the filter, which could result in a shorter lifespan.

When to Run Your Pool Filter

So, when should you be running your pool filter? The ideal time to run your pool filter is during the daylight hours, when the sun is out. You should aim for at least six hours of filtration per day, with up to eight hours during the hottest months. This should be enough to keep your water clean and balanced without putting too much strain on your pump or filter.

Conclusion

Overall, leaving your pool filter running 24/7 can be beneficial, but it has its drawbacks. If you can afford the extra energy costs and potential repairs to your equipment, then running your pool filter continuously could work for you. However, for most people, it’s best to run your pool filter for at least six hours per day, preferably during daylight hours. This will keep your pool clean and balanced while minimizing the extra wear and tear on your equipment.