How do you know if your pool filter is bad?

A properly functioning pool filter can be hard to spot. It’s crucial to know if your pool filter is running properly because it can save you a lot of time and aggravation. If you’re spending time cleaning your pool and it’s still dirty, it’s probably not functioning. The dirt in your pool will be re-circulated if your filter is not working properly.

Repairing Your Filtration System #

Make sure your filter is working by doing the following two tests: #

1. Add dirt to the pool skimmer as step one.
2. Add a small amount of diatomaceous earth (DE) to your pool’s skimmer — around the size of a 1 pound coffee cup. You should immediately check the pool jets to see if DE is being returned or if the water has suddenly become hazy after doing this. If this is the case, there is most likely a problem with your filter.

Adding DE to a cartridge filter will put undue strain on the fabric elements, so don’t do it. Instead, make use of a filtration powder made from cellulose fibers.

Inspect your pool’s filtration system by using a vacuum cleaner. If you have a pool vacuum system installed, you can utilize it to see how effectively your filter system works. Connect your vacuum and hose to the filter’s suction port on your skimmer. If your pool is completely empty, it will not provide you with much input.

The jets or returns should be spitting clear water when the vacuum is running. It’s possible that the dirt vacuumed out is just recirculating back into the pool, resulting in hazy water that’s flowing out.

First, clean the filter, and then check the backwash valve to see if it’s allowing dirt to return to the pool. Inspecting the filter’s internal components for damage requires disassembling the filter completely.

You should not use sand that is more than three to four years old in a sand filter. If this is the case, it’s time to swap out the sand with something new.

There Are 6 Big Problems That Pool Filters Run Into #

Debris #

This is the most typical problem caused by sand or debris that has been sucked up by the filter and is now floating back into the pool. Sand filters, on the other hand, are more susceptible to problems such as leaks in the laterals or an unsupported standpipe.

Filter Tears #

Used-up DE filters may have developed tears in the grids over time. Check for damage to the grids and the o-ring on the standpipe. When recharging the grids, watch out for adding too much DE powder.

High Pressure #

If the pressure inside the tank rises up too much, it can harm the filter. A problem like this can arise if the pump’s filter isn’t big enough. This problem can also be caused by a clogged filter.

High pressure can cause laterals to crack and pour sand back into your pool if it’s not dealt with right away. It may also result in a broken tank or a blown-off filter cap.

Low Pressure #

High and low pressure are both problems. If the pressure is too low, water passage into the filter can be obstructed, which disrupts normal pool circulation.

Ensure there are no clogs in the pump’s strainer basket or impeller. Aside from that, make certain the pool skimmer doesn’t have an incorrectly placed weir or clogged basket.

Corrosion #

DE and sand filters have a small center ring and spokes inside the multi-port valve. This item may become damaged or worn out over time, necessitating its replacement. Even if the valve is set to “filter,” water may seep around it or pass through the waste line as a result.

Need to Be Replaced #

When a pool filter cartridge or grid has to be replaced, the most typical option is to find the right replacement. In some cases, the instructions contained in the owner’s manual will prove to be extremely beneficial. A pool equipment repair specialist can tell you for certain whether your pool filter really does need to be replaced.