How To Change Pool Filter Without Losing Water - ERNIEGRAVES

Sand Pool Filter : How to Take Care of it? Pros of Having Sand Filter

When you first start looking at swimming pools, one of the first questions you will have to answer is whether you want a sand pool filter, a cartridge filter, or an earth filter. There are three types of pool filters available: sand pool filters, cartridge filters, and earth filters. Each of these distinct filters has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so you should educate yourself as much as possible about each kind before making a purchase. One of the primary reasons that so many people choose a sand filter for their swimming pool is because it is a cost-effective option for them.

It is helpful to have a general notion of what maintenance looks like on the various types of filters in order to fully comprehend what you are getting yourself into.

Backwash the SandFilter– If your pool is used frequently, you will need to backwash the filter around once a month, or more frequently if the pool is not. When you want to backwash the filter, just turn off the pump and switch on the valve to the backwash setting before turning the pump back on. Allow it to run for a few minutes, then turn the pump off and reposition the valve to the right position for the rinse. After the pump has been completely primed, turn it back on and let it to rinse for around 15 seconds. Then turn off the pump once more, reset it to the filter position, and turn it back on. Frequently used in Make sure not to backwash the filter too often because it will perform better when a little dirt is present. Backwashthe Filter– As a general rule of thumb, backwash every time the gauge indicates that the pressure is approximately 10 pounds greater than it was immediately after you backwash, and then raise the filter. Replace the SandFilter– You should replace the sand in the filter about every seven years. If you aren’t utilizing chlorine, you should use it more frequently, roughly every three to five years if you aren’t already. Sand should be chemically cleaned roughly once or twice a year, depending on whether you use an anti-fungal or anti-bacterial agent./
Standard Sand Filter– When it comes time to replace the sand in your pool filter, be sure to choose sand that has been specially manufactured to function in asand pool filter. It should be available at all pool supply retailers. Don’t forget to maintain the proper balance of chemicals in your swimming pool. No matter what type of filter you choose, you will still need to monitor the pH levels and other chemical levels in order to keep them under control. The fact is that there is no way around it.

Re-invent your swimming pool. Yet another reason why so many people choose sand filters to cartridge or earth filters is that they require the least amount of maintenance. A lot of care is required to maintain cartridge filters in excellent working order, and earth filters take a lot of maintenance merely to keep them up and running in good condition. When it comes to pool owners who have a sand filter, some choose to use biguanide sanitizer, but this has the disadvantage of clogging the filter, which means those who use this chemical must change the sand more frequently.

It is usually preferable to engage a professional pool service to assist you in keeping everything in your pool in excellent operating order.

The professionals at Emerald Pool and Spa will take care of all of your sandpool filter requirements as well as maintaining the proper balance of chemicals in your pool.

Change Your Pool Filter In 5 Steps

A pool filter is responsible for keeping the pool clean and hygienic. Water circulates through the pool’s pump, ensuring that the chemicals are properly distributed and that the pool is free of waste such as bugs, leaves, and pollen, among other things. To get the most enjoyment out of your pool season after season, make sure it is constantly properly maintained with the necessary chemicals to keep it clear of germs and algae, and that the pool’s filter is always operating properly.

Step 1 – Turn Off Electricity

Turn off the electricity before removing the filter to reduce the danger of electrocution. Make certain that the area surrounding the power panel is entirely dry so that you don’t run the danger of receiving an electric shock.

Step 2 – Open Release Valve

Open the huge plastic circular pressure release valve in the center of the room. Keeping the pressure of the pool pump stable allows the filter to work more effectively, keeping your pool cleaner longer.

As soon as you open the valve, you will hear a form of hissing sound, which is caused by the air being expelled from the pump. Before moving forward, make certain that the sound has totally stopped playing.

Step 3 – Remove Band and Lid

Remove the restraining band from the pump and set it to the side. Open the pump’s lid and look for the device, which is a long cylinder with ridges on it. This is the device to use. The filter has a feel that is similar to that of a coffee filter, but it has plastic ridges along the exterior of it that make it more durable. This is what the filter looks like.

Step 4 – Locate and Remove filter

Once you’ve discovered the filter, carefully remove it out of the pump and set it aside. Most of the time, there are no specific instructions on how to dispose of the filter, but it is always a good idea to check the box of your new filter to see if there are any precautions you need take to properly dispose of the old one.

Step 5 – Replace New Filter

Place your new pool filter into the pump where the old one was previously located. Reinstall the lid and the band on the pump to complete the process. Close the release valve and double-check that it is securely attached before continuing. If the valve is not securely closed, the pressure generated by the pool pump will be insufficient and the pump will not function correctly. Reconnect the electricity to the pool to activate the new filter and pump and begin cleaning the pool.

How to Replace a Filter in a Swimming Pool

It is the pool filter that is at the center of your swimming hole’s operation. If everything is functioning properly, the water will remain clean and crystal clear. It is necessary to replace the filter media on a regular basis in order to maintain the filter working at peak performance. A sand system, diatomaceous earth (DE), or a cartridge system are the most likely options for your system.

Replacing a Filter Cartridge

If your filtration system makes use of cartridges, you will need to replace them on average every two weeks if you are using them. Before you start the filter, put a stopper in the intake and return ports of the pool and close the lid. While you are changing the filter cartridge, the plugs prevent the water from flowing into the filter via gravity. Remove the cartridge chamber cover by unscrewing it. Remove the cartridge that has been used. Replace the cartridge with a fresh one. Replace the lid and tighten the screw until it is secure. Removing the stoppers from the intake and return ports is a good place to start. If the air release valve is present on your filter model, open it until water begins to flow through it.

Replacing Filter Sand

Filter sand should be replaced every three to five years to ensure that your system is running at peak performance. Blocking the intakes of an above-ground pool will prevent water from going into the filtration system and causing damage. In most cases, filtration systems are installed above the water level of in-ground pools, making the need of plugs unnecessary. Disconnect the filter drain valve from the filter tank to ensure that all water is removed from the tank. Remove the sand from the filter tank with a scoop. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the sand if your entrance is too small to fit one. Ensure that all internal filter system components, including the standpipe and laterals, are in good working order. Before filling with sand, it is necessary to replace any worn or broken pieces. In order to determine the proper amount of sand for your system, see the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replacing Diatomaceous Earth

Every time you backwash your filter, replace the diatomaceous earth (DE). The moment you see that the pressure gauge is reading 10 psi higher than normal, it is necessary to flush the system to remove dirt and debris that has accumulated inside the filter unit. This will also eliminate the DE. Turn off the electric water pump. Count eight times while moving the pump handle down slowly and then up quickly. Close the intake and return valves on the compressor. Open the filter drain to enable any built-up dirt, debris, and used DE to flow out of the system and into the surrounding environment. Close the filter drain valve and open the intake and return valves to allow water to flow through. Start the pump by pressing the button. Through the intake skimmer, add the appropriate amount of DE according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Safety First

Before replacing the filter media, unplug or disconnect the electricity that is connected to the pump and turn it off. By turning off the electricity, you eliminate the possibility of receiving an electrical shock. Additionally, if the pump is turned on when there is no water in the system, the motor may overheat, resulting in a costly repair. When opening a sand or DE filter, proceed with caution. An increase in pressure within the filter tank has the potential to result in an explosion of water and filter media. Wear goggles to protect your face from the elements.

My Pool Filter Keeps Losing Pressure, Why?

There is nothing more aggravating than discovering that your swimming pool pump is losing water pressure and you are unable to determine the cause. The number of times I’ve gotten this phone call in my almost two decades and a half of business as a self-employed swimming pool service entrepreneur is impossible to count. It is a rather frequent issue. In this post, I will reduce the troubleshooting methods and potential concerns to only the most serious issues that you may encounter in your business.

The swimming pool’s water level is too low
Plumbing obstruction, either on the suction side or on the return side of the system
The impeller is experiencing mechanical troubles, which are often caused by a faulty seal or gasket.

Let’s take a look at each of these three major categories and figure out what is causing your swimming pool pump to lose pressure, also known as losing prime, and, more importantly, how to correct the problem. In addition, I will include a few pro-tips in each area that will help dealing with the problem a bit simpler. Despite the fact that some of you may think this is apparent, not everyone is totally aware of how swimming pools work. Do not be concerned, this is a safe space where there will be no judgment.

Low water levels will cause your swimming pool pump to lose pressure

Many people believe that gravity is responsible for transporting water from the swimming pool to the pump. This is not the case. If the pump is located at a lower elevation than the surface of the swimming pool’s water, this calculation is correct just in this case. After then, there will be some movement caused by gravity. When a swimming pool pump is turned on, gravity does not act as quickly as it should. Whenever a swimming pool pump is activated, the water contained inside the pump pot is drawn into the impeller and propelled up and out of the pump housing.

You will find that if you follow the water’s course back to its source, you will find that the initial point of entry for plumbing will be either an overflow drain at the bottom of deep end or a skimmer at the waterline, or more usually a combination of the two.

Very frequently, when this occurs, the gurgling sound will be followed by the pump pot being completely empty and the pressure in the system rapidly diminishing.

How Full Should You Fill Your Swimming Pool?

Filling a pool with a built-in fill valve is the quickest and most convenient method. The solution to this problem is not difficult to devise. Keep the pool’s water level at a healthy level. How high do you fill your swimming pool with water, though, is a more pertinent topic. I’m delighted you raised this question since it’s a good one. In general, an inch or so above the center of the skimmer hole is approximately the correct amount of space. If the skimmer continues to gurgle, add additional water until the grumble is gone.

Unless the water level is too high, there will be no skimming activity taking place.

Here’s a pro-tip for you to remember in this section: Water levels are maintained in many contemporary pools created in the last decade or so by using a built-in fill valve that is controlled by either an electronic timer or a float valve.

Keep your pool water level at the precise proper level all of the time and you will never have to worry about your pool pump running out of prime again.

A Plumbing Blockage Will Cause A Pool Pump To Lose Pressure

It is possible that a clog in the line is the root reason of your pool pump losing pressure. This is a more significant problem. This will most likely occur for a variety of reasons, including:

A foreign object was sucked up by the pool’s pump when you were vacuuming the pool
The skimmer basket was missing, and a foreign object made its way into the skimmer and into the plumbing system.

Often, this is easy to establish since the pump will continue to operate steadily, will not make any new noises, and will not act any differently than it has in the past, but will simply not fill the pump pot or build up pressure when this occurs. A clog might occur if you don’t take precautions while sweeping debris. The obstruction may be just at the entry of the skimmer, making it possible to remove it with a screwdriver if you’re fortunate enough. I’ve only been fortunate once in my life.

It is necessary to flow the water in the opposite direction of the object in order to dislodge it.
It should be connected to a garden hose.
Close the pool pump lid.
Although the foreign item will usually detach itself immediately, it is best to leave the drain-jet running for a good three to five minutes to be sure.
Make sure you’re prepared to get wet, but in a pinch, this will suffice.
Bonus pro-tip: you may need to run the drain-jet in the same direction as the water flow in some cases, so be sure to place it in the skimmer hole.
When a filter is being dismantled, it is possible that something will be dumped into the system.

If this occurs, you will have to utilize a drain-jet in each return line one by one until you figure out which line the foreign object entered through the drain-jet. It’s most probable that it become lodged somewhere within the filtration system itself.

A Clogged Filter Will Cause A Pool Pump To Lose Pressure

The filter is one form of blockage that you should look at first, as it is likely to be the most serious. If I had just begun with cleaning the filter at the beginning of my troubleshooting adventure, I could have saved a lot of time. You will never be able to out-chlorinate a fully functional filter, no matter how hard you try. Pump problems are not usually caused by a blocked filter, but if it has been a long time since the filter was cleaned, it is a good place to start. Alternatively, you may refer to this article I wrote on filter teardowns for some guidance on cleaning your filter.

A Mechanical Breakdown Can Cause your Swimming Pool Pump To Lose Pressure.

A swimming pool pump has a lengthy service life and may be relied on for many years. It is not uncommon for us to have a pool pump that is thirty years old. Take nothing for granted: these are inefficient pool pumps that should be changed, but that’s a discussion for another day. Pumps and motors can fail from time to time, and this is something that must be anticipated. I won’t go into all of the exact options, but I will touch on two mechanical concerns that are worth mentioning. It is necessary to inspect the pump lid and its O-ring first if there is a loss of pressure in the pool pump when it is initially turned on.

In the course of time, due to sunlight exposure and numerous other conditions associated with pool chemicals, a plastic pump lid may develop cracks, which might result in suction leaks.
The only way to fix this is to replace the lid; do not attempt to patch it with superglue or any other method since it will just not hold together.
If the o-ring on the pump lid is broken or dried up, it should be replaced.
Make sure to maintain a tube of silicon or Teflon-based lubricant on available, and to lubricate all of the O-rings in your vehicle.
The second probable mechanical failure that might cause a pool pump to lose pressure is directly connected to the possibility of a blockage in the pool pump’s intake.
If you have a skimmer or pool pump that has a missing or fractured basket, debris will make its way into the impeller and eventually jam the pump.
Turn off the pump at the circuit breaker and check that it is turned off by attempting to turn on the pump at the timer.
If you see anything pointy or hairy in the impeller, you have a foreign item stuck in the impeller and should remove it.
Some pump models are more difficult to clean than others, but you can typically clean the impeller without disassembling the pump by turning the impeller by hand and pushing out any blockages that have formed.
For each model, the procedure is different, and I will ultimately cover a number of them on my youtube channel, but for the time being, you’ll have to make do with the instruction manuals available on the manufacturer’s website.

If you approach these modifications in the proper manner, they can be rather quick and uncomplicated, therefore I hope this guide will assist you in doing so. Check out the following article to find out more. The best test kits for swimming pool owners are available here.

How exactly would I know if my Pool Filter is Working?

It is critical to understand whether or not your swimming pool filter is functioning properly. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you may spend several days attempting to clear your pool water and make it seem nice only to discover that the dirt is just recirculating back into the pool. Furthermore, you might lose a significant amount of time and money attempting to clean your pool, and you could even squander money on unnecessary chemicals or clarifier in an effort to get your water back on track.

I have two suggestions for you.
These approaches are predicated on the assumption that if you have a pressure-based sweep that uses unfiltered water (such as a Polaris 360), that this line has been shut off or valved off completely.
However, it is far more frequent for the filter to have an internal problem than it is for the backwash valve to fail on its own.
Method1:If you are unclear whether or not your filter is functioning properly, you may test it by adding some diatomaceous earth (DE) to a DE or sand filter.
Check the pool jets or returns immediately after adding it to see if any hazy water can be seen flowing back into the pool immediately after adding it.
Please keep in mind that DE should not be added to a cartridge filter.
DE has the potential to pack into the cartridge folds, putting an excessive amount of tension on the fabric parts.

After that, you may check to see if any hazy water is flowing back via the jets or returns.

What should I do if the dirt from my pool filter is going back through?

The cleaning of the filter should include a complete disassembly and inspection of each internal component to discover where the damage is located.

If this is the case, you may be in need of a sand change.

The rounding out of the sand makes it appear more like little marbles or round stones in a stream or natural river bed, which is what it was originally.

Build the Pool of Your Dreams

One of the most wonderful things about having your own gorgeous glistening sanctuary of cool pool water only a few feet from your back door is the convenience it provides. A pool may serve as anything from a place of nighttime leisure to a place of morning exercise to a social status symbol, among other things. Everything is possible when it comes to your own swimming pool. Blue Science will collaborate with you to create a one-of-a-kind dream pool that perfectly compliments your backyard surroundings.

Give us a call right now.

What Customer are Saying About ourDallas Pool Care

“Hello everyone, just a 5 star rating, a heartfelt thank you, and a high recommendation. Kevin D not only takes excellent care of our pool, but he is also a wonderful person. Earlier last week, our dog bolted out the door as Kevin unlocked the yard gate. Kevin performed an outstanding job, not only informing us of the problem, but also in staying with us for about 30 minutes while we searched for our dog. Kevin, in fact, was the one who tracked him down and returned him to his family. A real example of customer service quality and commitment – not just in the performance of routine responsibilities, but also in going the additional mile when and when it is needed.

did an excellent job.
Thank you very much!” Pool Cleaning in Dallas on March 6th 5 out of 5 stars “Let me begin by emphasizing how impressed I am with this firm and its products.
I’d want to offer our pool guy, Charles, a five-star review since he’s been a genuine professional and has taken the time to answer my queries and provide the greatest customer service imaginable.
« Pool Cleaning in Carrollton on July 10th 5 out of 5 stars “Ryan Wagoner of Blue Science has gone above and above to ensure that our pool is in excellent condition.
Ryan and Blue Science come highly recommended by me!” Mary McLean is a well-known author.
5 out of 5 stars “I got in touch with Nick and asked for the equipment to be looked at and fixed.
Nick had Clayton assigned to the repair, and he was on the job in a short amount of time.
In addition, our weekly pool person is doing an excellent job.” Gary Ripkowski is a writer who lives in the United States.
In addition to new pool lighting, we need a variety of pool maintenance.
After the repairs were completed, the electrician, Zach, informed me that everything had been taken care of with the electrical and worked with me to reprogramme my lights.
Josh, our usual Blue Science pool technician, does a consistently solid and dependable job, and he was the one who discovered our mechanical issues.

It was comforting to know that he was keeping an eye on things for us.” Lisa M. Novacek is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City. « Pool Repair in Irving5 out of 5 starsMar 27, 2019»

Dallas Pool Brands We KnowUse

When it comes to pool repairs and equipment installations in Dallas, we only employ supplies and components from the most reputable pool manufacturers.

Can You Run A Pool Pump Without A Filter?

The use of chemicals, as well as the use of an automatic pool pump and filtration system to remove contaminants and undesired particles from the pool water, are required to maintain a swimming pool crystal clean and sterilized for swimmer safety. Although it is possible that you may be required to switch on your pool pump when a filter is not accessible, there may be occasions when this will be necessary, and you may question if you should be operating your pool pump when there is no filter in place.

Make sure the filtration system is closed down and safe, and install a new filter as quickly as possible to prevent your pool from being clogged with debris.

Even if you have a pool filter, such as a sand or cartridge filter, there are a few situations in which you may elect not to filter your pool water.

Cartridge Filter

Using a cartridge filter to remove microscopic particles from your pool water is one of the most effective methods of doing so. A backwash is not required with this sort of arrangement, as is the case with a sand filter; instead, the filter must be cleaned on a regular basis and replaced as necessary. It is advised that you keep the filter in place at all times when the pump is running, but if the situation calls for it, you can temporarily remove the filter while the pump is still running.

As a result of heavy usage, the filter may get damaged or need to be replaced, which can result in the flow of your water becoming limited and not flowing correctly. You can temporarily remove the filter until you can obtain a replacement while keeping the water in your pool moving. Before using the pump, make certain that the filter housing is tightly closed and that any loose items inside it have been removed. If the filter housing is broken, the pump will not function properly. In this instance, you may be forced to bypass the filter entirely while waiting for a repair to be completed. In order to keep the water flowing while maintaining the water chemicals in circulation, you can route your hoses in such a manner that they avoid the filter unit altogether.

Sand Filter

It is possible that you will wish your freshly introduced chemicals to move freely without any filtering at some point. If you have a sand filter, you may accomplish this by setting it to circulation mode on most units. Although you will only use this option in exceptional circumstances, it is the same as operating your pump without a filter. Everything that is being put through the filtration system will circumvent the system and be returned to the pool unfiltered after passing through it.

Circulation Mode

We’ll go over a couple scenarios in which you might really want to keep your pool running without utilizing the filtering option on your sand filter.

The pressure in your sand filter has reached maximum capacity and it requires backwashing
One reason for using this option is to wait until the backwashing process is complete before turning it off and on again. This will allow the pool water to continue to flow until you are able to complete the operation of adding new chemicals to the pool. It is possible that you would like to have newly added goods circulate about your pool without being stretched. If you are adding them close to or immediately into your skimmer, this is extremely important to remember. This will allow it to be delivered through your jet returns more quickly, allowing it to mix in with the water at a faster pace
The multiport valve seal may have sprung a leak as a result. However, even if the leak may be ongoing in many settings, it is likely that switching the dial from filter to circulation mode would lessen the leak by directing the water directly back into the pool rather than via the center of the filter, where debris is captured. In order to decrease water loss, you can utilize this setting until you can acquire a new seal or valve repair.

As previously said, you may be able to spend a whole season without having to use this setting, but it may be necessary at certain moments. Just remember to return your port to its original filtering mode as soon as you are able. In addition, it is critical that you do not make any changes to these valve settings while your pool pump is running. Always turn off the pump before making any changes to the settings on the valve.

Why Filters Are Important

In order to maintain your pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels, water flow is essential. However, the filtering process is as critical. If you don’t have a filter, you’ll be circulating dead algae, debris, and other deceased microorganisms throughout your pool’s interior water. By eliminating undesired particles such as grass, leaves, and other detritus that is floating in the water, the filter is able to effectively clean the water. It will begin to grow foggy and unclean if you do not use a filter.

Weekly, biweekly, or even monthly visits to your pool are possible, depending on how frequently it is used. The most important thing is to maintain it clean on a regular basis to minimize problems during the season and unnecessary maintenance charges.

Conclusion

It is not recommended to operate a pool without a filter for an extended amount of time; but, in rare instances where this is necessary for a short period of time, it is possible to do so safely. It is suggested that you keep spare cartridge filters on hand for your cartridge filter system in order to prevent lengthy delays for replacements and to ensure that any repairs that are required are completed in a timely manner. It is crucial to circulate your water even if you are not using a filter since it will aid in the maintenance of chlorine levels; nonetheless, even without filtering, the water may be thoroughly cleansed.

How to Clean an Intex Pool Filter Pump

It is necessary to clean the filter cartridge of the Intex pool pump on a weekly or daily basis depending on how much use the pool receives during the week. The filter cartridge cleans the water and retains particles as the water filters from the pool to the pump and then back to the pool through the filter cartridge. It is more difficult for the pump to pump water when the accordion-styled filter is clogged with dirt and grime. It will be necessary to clean and replace the filter if cleaning does not yield results.

Step 1

Turn off the Intex pool pump if it is running. Disconnect the top hose’s strainer grid, which is responsible for transporting water from the pool to the filter, and the input nozzle on the bottom hose, which is responsible for returning water to the pool.

Step 2

Remove the cover from the pump by turning the threaded collar on the pump counterclockwise. Extraction: Carefully remove the cover seal, which is shaped like a large O-ring.

Step 3

Pulling up on the filter cartridge will allow it to be pulled out of the pump housing.

Step 4

Spray the filter with a garden hose fitted with a spray nozzle to clear it of dirt and clean it. If the filter is not capturing particles or if it appears to be worn, it should be replaced with a new one.

Step 5

Replacing the clean or fresh filter in the pump housing is simple. Place the cover seal on the housing and tighten it down. Place the threaded cover on top of the housing and tighten with a clockwise rotation.

Step 6

To discharge trapped air from the interior of the pump, open the air release valve located on the top of the cover. Wait for the hissing to quiet before continuing. Close the air valve release in order to stop the flow of air. Inspect and replace the entrance nozzle on the bottom hose, as well as the strainer grid on the top hose, as necessary. Start the pump by pressing the button.

Pool Filter Cartridges: When to Clean and When to Replace

Proper cleaning of your filter cartridges will not only assist you in keeping your pool as clean as possible, but it will also extend the life of your filter cartridges. At some point, the cartridge will need to be changed with another. Dirt, oils, and minerals accumulate over time, and cleaning will not eliminate them. Listed below are some pointers on when and how to clean a pool filter cartridge, along with information on when to replace your pool filter cartridge.

When to Clean a Pool Filter Cartridge

It is recommended that you clean your filter cartridges whenever the filter pressure gauge rises by approximately 8 PSI (pounds per square inch) or more above the normal operating pressure, or at least once every six months assuming your filter is properly sized and you have not placed an unusually large burden on the filter (such as a bad algae bloom or very heavy bather loads).

If you detect a difference in the quality of your water, check the filter for damage or rips. It may be necessary to clean the filter.

How to Clean a Pool Filter Cartridge

To thoroughly clean a cartridge, you’ll want to start by removing any large dirt and debris particles from it, and then soak it in a pool filter cartridge cleaning solution to remove any built-up oils and scum that has accumulated. Using a garden hose, remove the heavier debris from between the pleats, working your way down from top to bottom. The more thoroughly you clean your pool filter cartridge, the longer it will operate at peak performance. Not suggested is the process of quickly hosing it down and placing it back in the tank.

The pool is a recreational facility.
Using this method, you can simply brush the cartridge while also allowing water to flow through it at the same time.
After you’ve removed all of the loose material, the following step is to soak the filter in a filter cleaning solution for a few minutes to remove any remaining oils and minerals.
In The Swim’s granular filter cleaner and granular filter cleaner are excellent choices.
Add 1 liter of Filter Perfect to a bucket containing 5 to 10 gallons of water, and soak the cartridge for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Add 1 pound of In The Swim’s granular filter cleanser to 5 gallons of water, soak for 24 hours, and then thoroughly rinse.
Allowing your cartridge to dry completely after soaking is recommended for maximum results before reinstalling it in the filter tank.
You may switch out new cartridges when it is time to clean, ensuring that you do not go without filtration during the cleaning and drying process.

When to Replace a Filter Cartridge

Generally speaking, most individuals replace their filter cartridges every 3-5 years. However, don’t base your decision just on the length of time that has gone; instead, consider the overall performance of your filter cartridge. Depending on how much stress is placed on the cartridge, your time period may be longer or shorter than expected. The presence of a filter cartridge that is no longer functional can be determined in three ways. Cleaning Period: Once a week When the pressure gauge climbs by 8 PSI above the usual working pressure, it is necessary to clean the pool filter cartridges.

Keep track of the filter pressure you’re using and the date you last cleaned your filter cartridge in your journal.
It is then time to replace the filter cartridge with a new one.
Initially, clean the cartridge; but, if the problem does not resolve after a few days, it is likely that the cartridge is no longer capable of filtering the water as well as it once did.
After 12-15 cleanings, Unicel suggests replacing the filter cartridge.
Look for rips or tears in the fabric while inspecting the filter cartridge.
If you see any tears or rips in the fabric, or if there are cracks in the rubber end cap of the cartridge, it is necessary to replace the cartridge immediately.
The longer the filter cycle and the fewer cleanings required each year, the larger the cartridge filter.
Simply put, larger filters will last longer than smaller filters, so opt for the bigger size!
If you have double the filter size, you may get nearly twice the life out of your cartridge!
* In The Swim sells a large selection of replacement pool cartridges in various sizes.
All that is required to locate a replacement cartridge on our site is the component number and/or the measurements of the original cartridge (length and width).

Have a concern about how to care for an aged filter cartridge or need assistance locating a replacement cartridge? Contact us now. Make a call to 1-800-288-7946 for more information! Staff Blogger, Jackie WolskiInTheSwimFEATURED PRODUCTS INCLUDE:

Aboveground Pool Pump & Filter Replacement

Let’s face it, most above-ground pools are equipped with substandard filtration technology to begin with. Pool manufacturers provide dealers with a variety of filter alternatives, with the goal of lowering the cost of the pool package by bundling it with a marginal filtration system – a tiny pump and a small filter. Is your water tainted due to algae growth, hazy conditions, or the presence of visible particles? Do you have to clean the pool filter on a weekly basis in order to keep the water flow rates consistent?

If you replied “Yes” to any of these questions, it’s possible that you have an undersized filter, pump, or both of them.

Evaluating Your PumpFilter

If any of the following apply to your present filtration system, there may be no issue.

You can go between cleanings every 3-5 weeks
You have the ability to work 12 hours or less every day
Spring cleaning is simple and quick. Water will be clear after 1-3 days. Algae or hazy water is quite unusual, and it clears up very fast. The circulation of the pool is quite useful in keeping it clean.

It is possible to increase filtration considerably by replacing part of the filter media, specifically the filtercartridge or filtersand, but this improvement will be short-lived if the pump or filter is inadequately powered or proportioned. Overpowered pumps and undersized filters should not be used in conjunction with each other. Our above-ground pool filtration systems are all paired with a pump that is the correct size for the pool. Oversizing the pump in respect to the filter will result in less efficient filtering, which may result in damage.

Comparing Above Ground Pool Filter Systems

The first thing to consider is the sort of pool filter you want to use – DE, sand, or a cartridge filter. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that are separate from the others:

DE filters are expensive to purchase and maintain, but they provide the most effective filtering. Sand filters are simple to clean and long-lasting, and they provide medium-level filtering. Cartridge filters are cheap and straightforward to maintain, and they provide low-level filtering.

If you are comparing filters, size does important, and while DE gives the finest filtration of all pool filter types, it is preferable to have an enlarged cartridge filter rather than an undersized DE filter. In order to choose the best filter, the best technique is to first pick on the kind of filter (DE, cart, or sand), then go out and get the largest filter available of that type that you can afford. If you want to ensure that you will have access to replacement parts in the future for your filter or valve, stick with big manufacturers (Hayward, Pentair).

Sizing Above Ground Pool Filter Systems

You must be aware of the quantity of gallons contained within your pool. If you don’t know or aren’t sure, you may use this useful pool gallons chart for above-ground pools to figure out how many gallons you need. All aboveground filter systems (pump and filter) will specify the maximum gallon capacity at which their filter system will work well in an ideal laboratory-like setting. In the actual world, however, the math does not hold up. Make certain that the filter you choose is rated for a pool that is significantly larger than your own.

It is recommended that you pick the filter size that most nearly matches the size of your aboveground pool in gallons, and then purchase 1-2 times greater than that number to ensure proper filter performance.

Installing an Above Ground Pool Filter System

This is the simple part, and there is no need for a plan. Simply attach the filter and pump to the base and set it in the same location as your previous equipment. Connect the incoming and returning hoses, prime the pump, plug it in, and begin filtering and circulating water with vigor immediately. After each backwashing, sand filters will require replacement filter sand or a GeoSandalternative, and DE filters will require the addition of DE filter powder. Depending on whether you are changing a cartridge filter, you may additionally require a backwash hoseto connect to the filter.

With a bigger, more effective pool filtration system from In The Swim, you can enjoy higher water quality, lower energy use, and less water loss this season.