how long should my pool filter run each day

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How Long Should My Pool Filter Run Each Day?

A clean pool is important for the health of swimmers and the proper functioning of pool equipment. One key component to keeping a pool clean is the pool filter. But how long should your pool filter run each day? In this article, we'll dive into the factors that affect filter run time and help you determine the ideal length of time for your pool.

What Does a Pool Filter Do?

Before we talk about how long a pool filter should run, let's first review what a pool filter actually does. The purpose of a pool filter is to remove debris, contaminants, and microorganisms from the water. Different types of pool filters use different methods to achieve this goal, but most rely on a combination of physical and chemical filtration.

The physical filtration component of a pool filter involves trapping debris and contaminants in a porous material, such as sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth. The chemical filtration component involves removing or neutralizing harmful substances like bacteria, viruses, and algae.

Why Is Proper Filtration Important?

Without proper filtration, a pool can become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, which can cause illness and lead to costly pool repairs. Additionally, debris and contaminants can clog up pool equipment and reduce its lifespan.

Proper filtration not only keeps the pool water clean and safe, but it also helps to extend the life of pool equipment, reduce the need for chemicals, and lower overall maintenance costs.

Factors That Affect Filter Run Time

Now that we understand the importance of proper filtration, let's discuss the factors that affect how long a pool filter should run each day.

Pool Size: Generally speaking, larger pools require longer filter run times to adequately filter all the water. A good rule of thumb is to run the filter for one hour for every 10 degrees of water temperature. So if your pool is 20 degrees Celsius, you would run the filter for two hours.

Bather Load: Pools that have higher bather loads, such as public pools or pools that are frequently used for parties, will require longer filter run times to keep up with the additional contaminants introduced to the water.

Sun Exposure: Pools that receive more direct sunlight will typically require longer filter run times than those in shaded areas. This is because sunlight can promote algae growth, which requires additional filtration to keep under control.

Type of Filter: Different types of pool filters have different flow rates and capacities, which can affect the necessary run time. Cartridge filters, for example, typically require shorter run times than sand filters.

Pool Maintenance: Regular pool maintenance, such as vacuuming, brushing, and skimming, can help to reduce the workload on the filter and potentially shorten the necessary run time.

Determining Your Pool's Ideal Filter Run Time

So with all these factors to consider, how can you determine the ideal filter run time for your pool? Here are the steps:

Calculate Your Pool's Volume: To calculate your pool's volume, measure its length, width, and average depth, and multiply those numbers together. Then multiply that number by 7.5 to get the total gallons of water in your pool.

Determine Your Pool's Turnover Rate: The turnover rate is how long it takes for all the water in your pool to pass through the filter. To determine your pool's turnover rate, divide your pool's volume by the filter flow rate. A good turnover rate is 8-12 hours, meaning all the water in your pool should pass through the filter every 8-12 hours.

Factor in Additional Considerations: Consider the factors we discussed earlier, such as pool size, bather load, and sun exposure, and adjust the turnover rate accordingly.

Once you've determined your pool's ideal turnover rate, you can calculate the necessary filter run time. For example, if your pool's turnover rate is 8 hours, and you want to run your filter for 24 hours, then you should run it for 3 hours at a time, spaced out throughout the day.

Conclusion

Proper filtration is essential for a clean and healthy pool. By considering factors like pool size, bather load, and sun exposure, you can determine the ideal filter run time for your pool. Regular pool maintenance can help to reduce the necessary run time and keep your pool running smoothly for years to come.