If you’re having problems with your pool filter, you might be wondering what to do. If your pool filter is clogged or deteriorating, you may need to hire someone to do some repair work. But, what exactly are some of the warning signs that you need a new filter?
Cloudy water
If your pool is cloudy or milky, you may be experiencing a filter or pump problem. Depending on the issue, it might be a simple fix or it might require you to do some trial and error. Pool owners who have some trouble troubleshooting a filter or pump problem themselves might find that hiring a pool technician is a better option.
Some of the most common reasons for a cloudy pool include improper chemical levels, environmental factors, and particulate matter. To get the water to sparkle, you’ll need to balance the chemistry of your pool.
Ideally, you’ll want to maintain a free chlorine level of 3 ppm or above. However, if your pH is low or your alkalinity is too high, your pool could end up cloudy. You should also test the chemistry of your pool and make sure the balance is right.
Algae is another issue that can cause your pool to become murky. Usually, a super high dose of chlorine will kill algae and clear the pool. Depending on the type of algae, you might have to do a few shocks.
Other issues can include dirt and debris, such as a clogged or broken filter. This can be cleared by cleaning the filter and replacing the cartridges. Additionally, if your filter is dirty, you might have to use a pool clarifying agent.
Cloudy water isn’t safe to swim in. It can harbor disease-causing microorganisms, such as Cryptosporidium and Giardidium. Also, a cloudy pool can give off a chlorine smell.
As long as you know what you’re doing, you can easily keep your pool water clear. Whether you need to replace a filter, add chemicals, or do some trial and error, you should be able to find a solution.
According to pool maintenance service providers, the best way to maintain clear water is to run your filter system every day. However, you might need to run it more than that.
In addition, you’ll need to make sure that you vacuum your pool and skim off the large debris. If you don’t, you might have to use more chemicals than necessary to keep your pool water clear.
Loud pump
If your pool pump makes a loud rumbling noise, it may be time to have it looked at. This is not only a nuisance, but it can cause your pool to run at less-than-ideal levels, racking up your energy bill. It can also be a sign of an underlying problem that requires more than just a quick fix.
The best way to find out what’s causing your pump’s whirling sound is to inspect the motor. A motor is the heart of your pump, and it should function smoothly when it’s in good working order.
There are two basic types of pool pumps. One type uses a variable-speed motor, while the other uses a fixed-speed motor. Variable-speed models use less energy and can save you money. They can be wired for single or two-phase circuits.
The most important part of your pool filter system is the pump itself. Its primary job is to clean the water and circulate it through the filters. However, if it’s not functioning well, it can result in a lot of problems.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help your pool pump function better. First, it’s important to have it mounted on a level surface. An uneven base can cause it to vibrate and make a lot of noise. Taking the time to set it on a level surface will keep it in balance and prevent problems.
Another step is to check the pressure gauge. Its reading should be within 10% of its rated range. You can do this with a multimeter.
Lastly, you can try replacing some parts. These may include a mechanical seal or some of the moving parts of the pump. Although this is a tedious process, it’s not impossible. Depending on the make and model of your pump, you may have to remove some of the panels that connect the motor to the pump’s housing.
Using a stiff piece of wire, you can clean the impeller to eliminate any debris that might be clogging it. Alternatively, you can have a professional service technician do this for you.
Clogged sand filter
Sand filters are an important part of your swimming pool. They keep the water clean and prevent harmful bacteria and algae from entering the pool. However, these filters can have problems. If you are experiencing problems with your filter, you need to know how to fix them.
Sand filters can become clogged. This can cause the pool to be cloudy or dirty. It can also affect other parts of the system. The best way to fix a clogged filter is to replace it.
In addition to removing the sand, you’ll need to check the internal components. This includes the pump pot lid, the air relief tube, the standpipe, the laterals, and the spider gasket. You can also check the suction side for leaks.
Sand filters should be cleaned regularly to keep your pool healthy. Cleaning your sand filter isn’t hard, but you should follow proper procedures.
Ideally, your sand filter should be cleaned once a season. If your sand filter is over 3-4 years old, you may need to replace it.
If your sand filter isn’t cleaning the water properly, it’s likely due to a problem with the valve. You can get it fixed with a simple cleaning solution, or you can replace it with a new one. Getting it repaired is not cheap, but it will save you money in the long run.
When your sand filter is clean, the pressure will be optimal. On the other hand, if your pressure is low, there could be a clog. An obstruction in the filter can increase the pressure.
You can fix these problems with a cleaning solution or by replacing the sand filter. You’ll need a heavy-duty Shop Vac for this task.
Before you replace your sand filter, make sure it is the correct grade. It is recommended to use 20-grade silica filter sand. Purchasing the wrong grade can have a negative effect on your pool’s performance.
If you suspect a sand filter has a problem, you should first shut the pump off. Turning the pool pump off will protect the sand filter’s internals.
Deteriorating plaster
Deteriorating plaster on pool filters is unsightly and can be a hazard to swimming pools. It can also require more work to clean and maintain. However, with the right maintenance, you can extend the life of your pool filter and your pool plaster.
The quality of your plaster mix is important. Higher-quality mixes will last longer. You can also avoid dusting on your new plaster by waiting at least six hours before filling your pool.
In addition to your pool’s chemistry, the environment and climate can also affect your plaster. For example, if your pool is located in a dry area, you will have to use more sanitizing chemicals to keep your pool looking new.
The plaster in your pool can peel and crack after a few days. This is a sign that the water chemistry is not balanced or that the plaster’s bonding strength is compromised. Having a smooth, hard-troweled plaster will save you time and money on chemical costs.
Excessive crazing can also result in staining and other problems. If a crazed surface is not sanded out properly, the craze may recur.
The level of calcium in your swimming pool water can also affect the appearance of your plaster. High levels can lead to algae growth. Similarly, low levels of calcium can cause your plaster to become brittle.
Some factors that can affect the look of your pool’s plaster include the age of the plaster, the water temperature, the weather, and your pool owner’s diligence. Pool owners can also choose to use alternative sanitizing systems to reduce the amount of bleaching needed.
Scaling is another problem that can occur in your pool’s plaster. This is caused by improperly balanced pool chemistry, which results in calcium build-up. Moreover, water loss from plaster application can be due to extreme weather conditions.
A common way to address these problems is to apply a sanitizing agent, such as Smart Seal Prep Wise Clean & Etch. This product helps remove scale and other debris, as well as restore a smooth, hygienic surface.
Besides, proper balancing of pool chemistry is important during the summer months. During these times, it is critical to keep the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) in the -0.3 to +0.5 range.
