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Maintenance: Filters
Filters play the important role of removing
dirt from your pool’s water. It’s job is to keep your pool's
water fresh and clean. While they cannot filter algae, bacteria, or
minerals from the water, filters are still a fundamental part of the
hydraulics system. All filters are typically designed to remove oils,
grease and dirt from pool water.
The obvious time to clean the filter is when the water is no longer
clear. However, don't wait until pool water loses clarity to check the
filter. An increase in the pressure registered by a gauge on the filter
tank or a reduction in water circulation are signs that the filter needs
to be cleaned.
NOTE:
Dangerous pressures can build up inside a filter. Before you attempt
any maintenance operation, be sure to consult a pool professional or
the equipment operations manual.
There are three (3) basic types of filters
for your pool:
Sand
filters are the most popular
type because they are less expensive and simpler to operate and to maintain.
Pool water is pumped through layers of sand inside a pressurized container.
Dirt and grease particles are retained in the sand. When the filter
becomes dirty, it begins to restrict the flow of water, causing the
water pressure to increase. This indicates that the filter should be
cleaned - a relatively simple task of “backflushing” or
reversing the water flow to clear the dirt from the filter. With proper
backwashing and use of a filter cleaner, the sand can last indefinitely.
Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.)
The D.E. is another popular filter. It contains diatomaceous earth (hence
the name D.E.), a white powder that filters out even very small particles.
These types of filters offer less resistance to water allowing the pump
to work easily, even when the filter is dirty. These filters remove
much more dirt from the water and offer outstanding cleaning abilities.
They are cleaned by backflushing just like the sand filter, and used
D.E. powder is discharged along with the water. Used powder must be
replaced by adding it to the skimmer. D.E. filters provide the cleanest
water but requires more maintenance since the filter must be routinely
taken apart for manual cleaning.
Cartridge
Filters require no backflushing and also offer low water flow
resistance. Polyester elements within the filter trap dirt and are very
durable. Higher water pressure indicates the need to clean the filter
just as on sand filters, but the cleaning process is different. The
filter is removed from the unit and can be rinsed with a water hose
to remove dirt. Oily buildup can be removed by soaking the filter in
detergent. Cartridge filters are relatively easy to clean and also have
a low replacement cost. They should be replaced when they fail to maintain
clear water in the pool or when they show signs of wearing.
What filter is best? Which
one should I choose?
In addition to filter type, there are many different filter sizes. Your
decision should be depend largely on the size and usage of your particular
pool. The more people that use the pool, the more water must be circulated.
For new pool construction, be sure and discuss options with your builder
and select the type that best fits your needs. For remodeling and expansion
projects, any Pool People USA pool professional will be happy to review
the styles, sizes and respective benefits to help you find the right
filter for your pool.
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