Filtration

The job of the filtration system is to remove any undissolved dirt and debris from the pool water. While the skimmer basket, and the hair and lint basket in the pump are all factors in the filtering of pool water, the primary element we’ll address here is the filter itself. Consult your SUN® professional dealer to assist you in understanding the role that the skimmer and pump basket play in keeping your pool clear.

There are three types of filters that are used in swimming pools to remove dirt and debris from swimmers and the environment:

1. Sand 
2. Cartridge
3. Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.)

If you don’t know your filter type, your SUN pool professional can assist you in determining what filter you have.

Sand

Dirt is removed from a sand filter by “backwashing” or reversing the water flow. The filter should be backwashed when the pressure gauge indicates a 7-10 lb. increase over normal operating pressure (the pressure reading on the pressure gauge when filter is completely clean). Sand filters are more efficient when they are slightly dirty so they should only be backwashed when required by increased pressure.

Sand filters should be cleaned twice every season. Consult your SUN dealer for how often to change the sand.

Cartridge

Dirt needs to be removed from a cartridge filter when the pressure gauge indicates an increase of 7-10 lbs. over normal operation pressure. Remove the cartridge(s) from the filter and hose off all loose dirt and debris. Wet cartridge filter and let sit for 5-10 minutes.  This will remove all oils and greases imbedded in the filter element. Remove the cartridge(s) and rinse thoroughly with fresh water.

Peak filter efficiency is achieved when you let the filter element(s) dry prior to reinstallation. To avoid down time for the circulation or filtration systems, it’s advisable to purchase a second set of cartridge elements so they may be interchanged on a regular basis with the first set.

D.E.

Like sand, the D.E. filter is cleaned by backwashing the filter when pressure increases 7-10 lbs. over normal operation pressure. However, once the filter has been backwashed, new D.E. must be added to coat the grids in the filter. Do this by pouring D.E. through the skimmer. Your professional SUN® dealer can tell you how much D.E. is required to “recharge” your filter.

To remove oils and other natural build-up, D.E. filter grids should be cleaned at least twice a season. Also, at least once a year, disassemble and clean the entire D.E. filter thoroughly, and inspect the grids for tears or rips in the grids.

NOTE: Should you encounter problems or have questions about your filter system, contact your trained SUN dealer for answers.