Pool Pumps, Filters and Heaters How often do I need to run my pool filter?
The filter is the most important component in keeping your pool clean. Ideally, a
filter should run ALL THE TIME for maximum circulation and debris removal.
A minimum of 8 hours a day is highly recommended.
How often should I clean my pool filter?
It depends on what kind of filter you have. Sand filters should be cleaned (backwashed) approximately every 10 to 14 days, check the pressure gauge to be sure. D.E. (diatomaceous earth) filters need to be "bumped" every 10 to 17 days, and the filter should be cleaned approximately once per month. Cartridges in cartridge filters should be hosed off about once per week.
How do I select a filter type, what are the advantages and disadvantages of
each?
- Sand
Filters - This is the most common filter and it's very easy to use, however
backwashing, which is necessary to clean the sand in the filter, uses a lot of
chlorinated water, which essentially wastes the chlorine.
- D.E.
Filters - This filter provides the best water quality and requires less
weekly care than sand filters, however, end-of-year maintenance is more time consuming
than a sand filter.
- Cartridge
Filters - This is the most user-friendly filter and provides water clarity
close to that of a D.E. filter, however, replacement cartridges for the filter
need to be purchased on a regular basis and can tear easily.
What size filter system will I need for my pool?
- 17" System for up to 17,000 gallons.
- 19" System for up to 21,000 gallons.
- 23" System for up to 30,000 gallons.
- 30" System for up to 40,000 gallons.
What size pool heater will I need to effectively heat my pool?
1.) Using the sizing chart (below), determine the difference between desired pool temperature and average air temperature during the coldest month the pool is used.
2.) Calculate the surface area of the pool (length x width).
3.) Listed are the pool surface area ranges for each heater model size.
| Model |
125,000 |
175,000 |
250,000 |
325,000 |
400,000 |
Temp. Diff. |
Surface Area (L x W) |
| 15 º F |
667->889 |
933->1244 |
1333->1778 |
1733->2311 |
2133->2844 |
| 20 º F |
500->667 |
700->933 |
1000->1333 |
1300->1733 |
1600->2133 |
| 25 º F |
400->533 |
560->747 |
800->1067 |
1040->1387 |
1280->1707 |
| 30 º F |
333->444 |
467->622 |
687->889 |
867->1556 |
1067->1422 |
| 35 º F |
286->381 |
400->533 |
571->762 |
743->990 |
914->1219 |
Sizing chart based on 3-1/2 mph average wind and average pool depth of 5-1/2 feet.
What size solar heating system will I need to effectively heat my pool?
- For In-Ground Pools - The solar panel square footage should equal 55% to 100%
of the pool surface area if the panels are oriented to the south. If the panels
face east, increase the square footage by 20%. If the panels face west, increase
square footage by 15%. See sizing guide below for minimum system requirements:
| SIZING GUIDE |
| Pool Size |
# Of Panels |
| 15' x 30' |
6 |
| 16' x 32' |
7 |
| 16' x 36' |
8 |
| 18' x 36' |
9 |
| 20' x 40' |
11 |
- For Above-Ground Pools - The solar heating system pack is standard size and
comes complete with a 20' x 4' solar panel. To customize a heater system for your
pool, use the sizing guide below to determine how many panels your pool requires:
| SIZING GUIDE |
| Pool Size |
# Of Panels |
| 16' Round |
1 |
| 20' Round |
1 |
| 24' Round |
1 |
| 28' Round |
2 |
| 12' x 24' Oval |
1 |
| 15' x 24' Oval |
1 |
| 14' x 28' Oval |
1 |
| 16' x 32' Oval |
1 |
| 18' x 34' Oval |
2 |
| 20' x 40' Oval |
3 |
TIP - Use a solar
blanket to help retain heat in your pool water.
|
