when do you use waste on pool filter

When Do You Use Waste on Pool Filter

One of the most important pieces of equipment in any swimming pool is the pool filter. The filter is responsible for removing unwanted debris, bacteria, and other particles that may be present in the pool water. There are different types of pool filters available in the market, but they all require users to perform regular maintenance to keep them in top condition.

One of the maintenance tasks that pool owners should do is to backwash the pool filter. However, there is also an option to use the waste setting on the filter valve. While not often necessary, there are times when using waste may be appropriate. In this article, we will explore the situations when using the waste setting on your pool filter is necessary.

What Is the Waste Setting on the Pool Filter?

The waste setting on the pool filter is an option that allows pool owners to bypass the filter and remove water from the pool without passing it through the filter media. Instead, the dirty water is sent directly to the waste line, and no filtration or cleaning occurs.

While it may seem like a waste of water, this setting is useful in specific situations where the pool water has a high level of pollutants or debris, or the filter media is clogged.

When Do You Use Waste on Pool Filter?

Now that we know what the waste setting is let us examine the scenarios where using it is necessary or desirable.

1. After Heavy Rains or Windy Conditions

After a heavy storm, the pool water may contain a high level of debris such as twigs, branches, and leaves. In such a scenario, the pool filter may become overwhelmed and clogged. Backwashing the filter may not be enough to remove all the debris, and using the waste setting allows the pool owner to remove the debris-laden water, which can be replaced with clean water.

2. When Starting a New Pool Season

When opening your pool at the beginning of a new season, the water may need to be replaced or partially drained out. This is because stagnant water can result in a build-up of bacteria, algae, and other contaminants. Draining the pool water, cleaning it, and filling it with fresh water is the best approach. In this scenario, it is also crucial to use the waste setting to drain out the old water.

3. After Pool Parties

A pool party can be a lot of fun, but it can also result in an accumulation of dirt, grime, and pollutants in the pool water. If the pool filter is clogged with debris, or if the water is murky and cloudy, using the waste setting can help remove the pollutants from the water without passing it through the filtration media.

4. When Water Chemistry Is Unbalanced

Pool water requires regular testing to ensure it is balanced chemically. Imbalanced pool water may result in cloudy water, scale buildup, or even corrosion of pool surfaces. If the water chemistry is severely unbalanced, such as a high level of total dissolved solids (TDS), using the waste setting can help reset the water to a more optimal level.

5. When Algae is Present in the Pool

Algae are a common problem for pool owners, especially during the hot summer months. Algae growth can be hard to control, and the spores can easily pass through the pool filter. In some cases, algae can clog the filter media, reducing the efficiency of the pool filter. The waste setting can help remove the algae from the pool without passing it through the filter.

In Summary

The pool filter is an essential piece of equipment that requires regular maintenance to keep it working efficiently. Using the waste setting on the filter valve may seem like a waste of water, but it is necessary in specific circumstances when the pool water is heavily contaminated, imbalanced, or when the filter media is clogged with debris. Using the waste setting ensures that the pool owner can quickly remove the dirty water and replace it with clean water that is safe for swimming.