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How much pressure does swimming pool filter need

How much pressure does swimming pool filter need


  #1  
Old 08-07-19, 02:52 PM
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How much pressure does swimming pool filter need

Hi,

It is a very basic question but bnut have a Pentair PNS PLus DE filter. Anyone know how much pressure does the filter need to work? The gauge looks like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Pentair-190058-Pressure-Replacement-Filter/dp/B004W4TQJ6/ref=asc_df_B004W4TQJ6/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167151535350&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15192800699574315527&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9031604&hvtargid=aud-801381245258la-313230213786&psc=1

The needle is hovering below 12 psi but looking at the markers it seems to me that the pressure needs to be at least 19psi for the filter to work. Am I reading it right? If so, what can I do to fix the issue?

 
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Old 08-07-19, 04:22 PM
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I think you are looking at this the wrong way. The gauge is mainly used to tell you when it's time to clean the filter. Things like diatomaceous earth (DE) and dirt clog the filter. The more the filter becomes clogged the harder it is for water to pass through and the pressure rises. A low pressure could indicate that you have not used enough DE or your pump isn't powerful enough.
 
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Old 08-07-19, 04:44 PM
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have not used enough DE or your pump isn't powerful enough
Or simply the filter is not dirty and the pressure drop is still low!

So the telling question, what is the reading after a filter wash/change, that should be your starting point!
 
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Old 08-07-19, 05:20 PM
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I am trying to clear an algae problem when I opened the filter, I saw that the top half of the filters was all white while only the bottom half had some green algae on it. It seemed as if the water wasn't even reaching the top of the filter. That with the low pressure made me think that may filter isn't working.

When I get home, I am going to post some pictures may that will help clarify.

Thanks folks. First time not just owning a house but also a swimming pool so still learning the ropes. Appreciate the help.
 
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Old 08-07-19, 05:34 PM
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The filter is always working if you have the valve set to filter.
As mentioned.... the pressure is an arbitrary value.

My pool filter runs around 14-15psi and I backwash when it increases to around 19-20 psi.
 
 

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