what pressure should pool filter be at

Maintaining an ideal pool pressure filter can make a difference in the water’s cleanliness and overall quality. What pressure should the pool filter be at? This is a commonly asked question among pool owners. The answer could vary depending on the type of filter that you own, but it’s important to understand the factors that can affect filter pressure. Here’s all you need to know.

What is pool filter pressure?

Pool filter pressure is the measure of the force with which the water passes through the filter. It’s measured in pounds per square inch or PSI. As the filter gets dirty over time, the pressure will increase, which means it will be harder for water to pass through it. That’s when it’s time to clean the filter or replace it.

Factors that affect pool filter pressure.

The main factors that affect pool filter pressure are the size and type of your pool filter, the size of your pool pump, the type of pool you have, and how often you maintain your pool filter.

1. Type and Size of Pool Filter

There are three types of pool filters, each with its unique features and maintenance requirements. Sand filters require the least amount of maintenance and are best for large pools. Cartridge filters are a bit more expensive than sand filters and need to change cartridges every 1-3 years. D.E. filters are the most expensive and require the most maintenance, but they are the most effective at capturing small debris particles.

2. Size of Pool Pump

The size of your pool pump will also affect your pool filter pressure. If your pump is too small, it won’t flow water efficiently, which could cause your filter pressure to increase. If your pump is too large, it can also overwork the filter, and you may struggle with filter-cleaning problems.

3. Type of Pool

Your pool’s location, use, and environment affect the pool filter’s pressure. Outdoor pools with a lot of trees around will require more frequent filter cleanings than indoor pools. High bather load, pet hair, and grass clippings may clog the filter more quickly than a pool with a low bather load.

4. How Often You Schedule Filter Maintenance

Regular maintenance of pool filters is necessary. We recommend cleaning the filter every 3-6 months. This frequency depends on bather load, pool usage, and external factors. A dirty pool filter will reduce water flow and cause your filter pressure to rise.

Ideal Pool Filter Pressure

The ideal pool filter pressure for most residential pools is 10-20 PSI. However, some pool owners may observe pressure up to 30 PSI. Do not let the pressure rise above 30 PSI. Anything over 30 PSI indicates that the filter is clogged, and water is not flowing through the system correctly.

If you notice that the pressure is getting too high, you should check the filter, clean it or replace it. The pressure gauge is positioned before and after the pool pump to sense any changes in resistance. The gauge closest to the pool filter measures the backpressure created by the filter itself.

Conclusion

Maintaining ideal pool filter pressure is essential for keeping your pool clean, healthy and making it last longer. We suggest checking the pressure gauge each time you use the pool to monitor that the filter is working properly. Always maintain your pool filter as directed by the manufacturer, and perform regular maintenance to avoid any issues. Remember, your pool's quality depends on the cleanliness of your filtration system.