how to use pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

For pool owners, having a pool filter is essential to keep the water clean and free from contaminants. However, using a pool filter can be overwhelming, especially for those who have never used one before. In this article, we will guide you through the process of using a pool filter effectively.

Understanding Your Pool Filter

Before we dive into the process of using a pool filter, it's necessary to understand its components. Generally, a pool filter consists of three major components:

1. Pump: The pump is responsible for moving the water from the pool to the filter system.

2. Filter: The filter is the section that traps debris, dirt, and other contaminants from the water.

3. Filtration medium: The filtration medium refers to the material inside the filter that filters the water. It can be a sand filter, diatomaceous earth (DE) filter or cartridge filter.

Different filter systems require different maintenance, be sure to consult the pool filter's manual and follow the maintenance instructions accordingly.

Preparing Your Pool Filter

1. Turn Off the Pool Pump: Before preparing your pool filter, always ensure that your pool pump is turned off. You can do this by shutting the power off at the circuit breaker to avoid any accidents.

2. Clean the Pump Strainer Basket: Clean the pump strainer basket and check for any debris or clogs.

3. Check the Water Level: Ensure that the pool water level is above the mid-point, as a low water level can harm the pool filter's functionality.

Backwashing the Filter System

Backwashing the pool filter is an essential step in maintaining the hygiene of the pool water. You should backwash the pool filter when the water pressure falls by around 8-10 psi. Here is how to backwash your pool filter system:

1. Turn off your pool pump.

2. Close any adjacent valves connected to your filter system.

3. Set your pool filter to backwash mode.

4. Switch on your pool pump for around two minutes.

5. Turn off your pool pump and set your filter system to rinse mode.

6. Switch on the pool pump again for about 30 seconds.

7. Once done, turn off the pool pump and reset your filter system to previous settings.

Cleaning the Filter System

When the water pressure in your pool filter system reaches 25-30psi, it's time to clean the filter system. Here is how to clean your pool filter:

1. Turn off your pool pump.

2. Close all the valves connected to your pool filter system.

3. Release the filter system air bleeder to allow any trapped air to escape.

4. Remove the pool filter system from the filter housing and clean it with a garden hose.

5. Replace the pool filter and check if it was correctly secured and seated.

6. Open all the valves back up.

7. Switch on your pool pump and visualise if the filter system is working correctly.

Replacing the Filtration Medium

If your pool filter medium is discoloured, torn, or has an accumulation of debris, replace it with a new one. Here is how to change the pool filter medium:

1. Turn off your pool pump.

2. Close all the valves connected to your pool filter system.

3. Depending on the filter system instructions, release any trapped water.

4. Remove the filter and dump the existing filtering medium from the filter.

5. Insert the new filtration medium.

6. Reassemble the filter system.

7. Also, it's good practice to run your pool pump for about 24 hours after replacing the filter medium to ensure that it is working efficiently.

Conclusion

A pool filter system is an essential component to keep your pool water clean and hygienic for everyone to enjoy. Now that you have a good understanding of how to use a pool filter, maintaining your pool water should be much easier.

Remember always to consult the instruction manual before performing any maintenance on your pool filter system. Make this process a part of your pool maintenance routine, and it will make the task simpler and more effective.