Millions of Americans enjoy their swimming pools at home every day. Of course, along with the fun comes a bit of responsibility. It’s important to take note of certain pool equipment maintenance tips to ensure you’re properly caring for your pool water and pool equipment. Performing regular maintenance will make your pool safe and enjoyable for years to come. One thing that may not cross your mind as something important to know is your pool filter’s pressure reading. So what is the pressure of your filter, and why does it matter? Let’s take a look.
Why is Your Pool Filter Pressure Important?
Knowing your pool filter’s pressure is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy swimming environment. The pressure gauge on your filter serves as a vital indicator of its efficiency and effectiveness. A sudden increase in pressure could signal a clogged filter, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to poor water circulation, reduced filtration, and ultimately, water quality issues. Conversely, a consistently low pressure reading might indicate a problem with the pump or a leak in the system, both of which require prompt attention to prevent further damage and ensure optimal performance. Regularly monitoring and interpreting your pool filter’s pressure allows you to take proactive measures, such as backwashing or cleaning the filter, to keep your pool water crystal clear and inviting for endless hours of enjoyment.
How to Find the Pressure of Your Pool Filter
When water is flowing normally through your pool filter, you’ll see a normal reading on the filter pressure gauge. This reading will be in the range of 10 to 25 psi (pounds per square inch). You can set the baseline for normal pressure when you first install the filter, and everything is clean and running as it should.
You should check the filter pressure once a week to ensure that it’s within the normal range for your pool. If it starts to rise or drop, it’s a sign that something could be wrong. If you notice an increase of more than 10 psi or a decrease of more than 5 psi, it’s time to take action.
Why Does Filter Pressure Change?
A filter pressure outside the normal range is an indicator that something is wrong. It can either be too high or too low. If there’s an abnormal reading, but you can’t find anything wrong, you might need to replace the pressure gauge, which is easy and inexpensive.
High Filter Pressure
Your filter pressure will go up if something is slowing down the flow of water. Oftentimes that means that the filter is dirty and needs to be cleaned. If that doesn’t help, or if you’ve had your filter so long that it’s very difficult to clean, it may be time to change the filter entirely.
Air pressure will also be high if there is air in the circulation system, which can happen when the pool water is too low. It can also occur if you turn your pool pump off for a while while you’re on vacation or just cleaning the pool. All you need to do is use the air release valve to remove air from the system.
Low Filter Pressure
Sometimes your pressure will be lower than normal, which indicates a blockage in the system before the filter. Look at the skimmers, pump basket, and drain covers and remove any debris.
Other times, there’s a leak in the pool pump. You may be able to repair it, or you might have to replace the pump.
Keep an Eye on Your Pool Filter Pressure
Seeing the wrong pressure on the gauge is an early warning sign that something is wrong with your pool. When you correct it right away, you can save yourself thousands of dollars in damaged equipment and expensive repairs.
Your Pool Service Experts in Lakeway
If you are looking for professional maintenance for your pool, we can help. Give the pool maintenance experts at Easy Pools a call today if you have any concerns regarding your pool filter and its performance.
About the Company
Easy Pools is a Central Texas pool maintenance company that has been providing Austin, Lakeway, Marble Falls and the surrounding areas with all of its pool care needs since 2007. As a leading pool company in the area, Easy Pools offers a number of services, specializing in pool maintenance, pool design & construction, pool renovation, and pool repairs.
Easy Pools is dedicated to “the easy pool experience,” whether it’s new pool construction or regular pool maintenance. Easy Pools is built around value, with a goal to provide residential and commercial clients with the best information, quality materials and equipment, and innovative pool design.
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