how often do i run my pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Owning a pool is one of the most glamorous investments any home owner can make. There is nothing like the feeling of diving into a crystal clear pool on a hot day. But, few people understand the work that goes into maintaining a pool. One of the most important things you need to know as a pool owner is how often you need to run your pool filter.

There is no standard time frame to run your pool filter. However, running your pool filter is crucial for keeping your pool clean and safe to swim in. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about running your pool filter.

Why do you need to run your pool filter?

When you think of maintaining a swimming pool, running the pump is the first thing that comes to mind. However, running your pool filter is equally important. The pool filter performs a critical function by removing any dirt, debris, or contaminants present in the pool water.

If you do not run your pool filter, your pool could become a breeding ground for algae and bacteria. This, in turn, could lead to health issues such as skin infections, ear infections, and diarrhea. Running your pool filter ensures that the pool water remains clear and free of contaminants.

How often do you need to run your pool filter?

There is no concrete answer to this question. The frequency of running your pool filter will depend on various factors, such as the size of your pool, the type of pool filter you have, and the level of pool usage.

Water volume

The amount of water in your pool is an essential factor that determines how often you need to run your pool filter. A general rule of thumb is to cycle all the water in your pool through the filter at least once every 24-hours. It is essential to know the volume of water in your pool so you can adjust your runtime accordingly. The larger your pool, the longer you'll need to run your pump.

Type of pool filter

The type of pool filter you have also plays a role in determining how often you need to run your pool filter. There are three primary types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters. Sand filters are the most common and require less maintenance. Cartridge filters usually require more run time and are less expensive than DE filters, which require the highest run time.

Level of pool usage

The number of swimmers you have, especially during the summer months, can significantly increase the level of contaminants in your pool. As a result, you will need to run your pool filter more frequently to maintain the correct water chemistry.

How long should you run your pool filter for?

Once you determine how often you need to run your pool filter, the next step is to determine how long to let it run for to achieve optimal filtration. As a general rule, the recommended duration of pool filter runtime is eight hours a day.

However, this time frame could vary depending on a few factors. If you have a smaller pool, running your pool filter for four hours could be enough. For larger pools, running your filter for more than eight hours may be necessary to cycle all the water through.

Conclusion

In summary, running your pool filter is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy swimming pool. The frequency and duration of the filter runtime depend on several factors, including the water volume, type of pool filter, and level of pool usage. Sampling your pool water and adjusting your pump run-time accordingly can help you keep your pool clean and safe to swim in.