Monitor the Filter Pressure Gauge

Most swimming pool filters are fitted with a pressure gauge mounted on top of the filter. The primary purpose of the pressure gauge is simply to indicate how much pressure is building up inside the filter. Monitoring this pressure gauge on a periodic basis is an essential part of maintaining a healthy swimming pool. The filter pressure gauge can be useful in many ways and can help identify and avoid many potential problems saving time, money, and headaches.

Weekly Monitoring of the Filter Pressure Gauge It is good practice to check the filter pressure while the pool pump is operating at least once each week. When a new filter is installed or each time the filter is cleaned, it is important to make a note of the normal operating pressure as indicated on the filter pressure gauge. A waterproof marker can be used to write this pressure reading directly on the top of the filter where it won’t get lost and is the most convenient for checking the pressure each week. Most manufacturers recommend that the filter should be cleaned when the filter pressure shows an increase of 10 psi over the normal operating pressure. Be sure to check the owner’s manual for the filter manufacturer’s recommendation.

Filter Pressure Lower than Normal
If the pressure indicated on the pressure gauge is lower than normal, there is something obstructing the water coming into the filter. If the pump cannot get enough water, it can’t build up normal pressure in the filter. The most likely reason for this problem is a skimmer basket or pump basket that is clogged up with leaves and debris. Another possibility is a water level that is too low and not allowing any water to enter the skimmer.

Filter Pressure Higher than Normal
If the pressure indicated on the pressure gauge is higher than normal, either the swimming pool filter is dirty or there is something obstructing the water in the plumbing after it leaves the filter. The most likely reason for this problem is a dirty filter. Another possibility is a diverter valve might be positioned incorrectly, not allowing water to flow back to the swimming pool.

Fluctuating Filter Pressure
If the pressure indicator is fluctuating from high to low, most likely either the water level is low or there is something obstructing the skimmer weir and not allowing sufficient flow of water into the skimmer. When the skimmer fills up with water, the pressure builds back up in the filter until the skimmer is sucked dry, then the pressure drops back down again. This cycle will continue until the pump turns off or the pump loses its prime and runs completely dry.

Monitoring the swimming pool filter pressure gauge is real simple and can save a lot of trouble, time, and money. Making it a routine part of maintaining the swimming pool can pay big dividends!

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