Recognizing the frustration when your swimming pool experiences pool not filtering is the first step towards a solution. A malfunctioning pool pump often contributes to this issue, impeding the vital circulation necessary for a clean and enjoyable swimming experience. This directly impacts the effectiveness of your pool filter, like those offered by trusted brands like Hayward, which is designed to remove debris and impurities. Without proper filtration, issues related to pool not filtering can lead to problems with overall water chemistry, creating an unhealthy environment for swimmers. This guide will equip you with seven actionable fixes to address pool not filtering, ensuring your pool remains crystal clear and ready for use.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Inyo Pools , from the video titled How To: Determine Why A Pool Pump Won’t Prime .
Pool Not Filtering? 7 Fixes to Try Right Now!
A pool that isn’t filtering properly can quickly turn into a cloudy, algae-filled mess. Before you call a professional, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and fix the problem yourself. This guide offers seven potential solutions for when your pool is experiencing filtration issues, centered around making sure your pool is filtering as it should.
1. Check the Skimmer Baskets and Pump Basket
Often, a simple clog is the culprit. These baskets are designed to catch debris before it reaches your filter, preventing damage and reducing the load on the filter system.
What to Look For
- Leaves, twigs, and other organic material.
- Toys or larger objects that could be obstructing water flow.
How to Fix It
- Turn off the pool pump. Important: Always turn off the pump before opening any of the lines.
- Remove and empty the skimmer baskets. Rinse them with a garden hose to ensure they are clean.
- Locate the pump basket (usually near the pump itself). Open the pump basket lid (it may be screw-on or lever-operated).
- Remove the basket and empty any debris. Again, rinse with a garden hose.
- Before replacing the pump basket, check the impeller for any obstructions. The impeller is a spinning component inside the pump that moves the water.
- Reassemble everything securely. Make sure the pump basket lid is properly sealed to prevent air leaks.
- Turn the pump back on and observe if the water flow improves.
2. Inspect and Clean the Pool Filter
The filter is the heart of your filtration system. A dirty or clogged filter significantly reduces its effectiveness. There are three main types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). The cleaning process varies depending on the type of filter you have.
Sand Filter
Sand filters need backwashing to remove accumulated debris.
- How to Backwash: Most sand filters have a multi-port valve. Set the valve to the "Backwash" setting. Run the pump until the water in the sight glass (a clear tube on the valve) runs clear, usually 2-3 minutes. Then, turn the pump off, set the valve to "Rinse" for about 30 seconds, and finally set it back to "Filter". Backwashing should be done regularly or when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi higher than normal.
Cartridge Filter
Cartridge filters require manual cleaning.
- How to Clean: Remove the cartridge from the filter housing. Rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose, using a nozzle to get into the pleats. For stubborn debris, use a cartridge filter cleaning solution. Reinstall the cleaned cartridge into the filter housing.
DE Filter
DE filters require backwashing and periodic recharging with diatomaceous earth.
- How to Backwash: Similar to sand filters, backwash the DE filter until the water in the sight glass runs clear.
- How to Recharge: After backwashing, you’ll need to add fresh DE powder to the filter. The amount of DE required depends on the size of your filter. Refer to your filter’s manual for the correct amount. Mix the DE with water to form a slurry and pour it into the skimmer while the pump is running. This coats the filter grids with DE, allowing it to effectively trap debris.
3. Check the Water Level
An improperly filled pool can impact the skimmer’s ability to draw in water and thus impede filtration.
What to Look For
- Water level that is too low: The skimmer will suck in air, reducing water flow.
- Water level that is too high: The skimmer will not be able to skim the surface effectively.
How to Fix It
- The water level should be approximately halfway up the skimmer opening. Adjust accordingly by adding or draining water.
4. Inspect the Pump for Air Leaks
Air leaks can drastically reduce the pump’s efficiency and prevent proper filtration. Even small leaks can cause big problems with the ability for the pool to be filtering.
How to Check For Air Leaks
- Visually inspect all connections, unions, and fittings on the suction side of the pump (the side that draws water from the pool).
- Look for cracks or loose connections.
- Listen for any hissing sounds, which can indicate an air leak.
Common Areas for Air Leaks
- Pump basket lid: Make sure the O-ring is properly seated and lubricated.
- Unions: Tighten unions carefully, avoiding overtightening which can crack them.
- Pipes: Check for cracks or damage, particularly near connections.
How to Fix Air Leaks
- Turn off the pump.
- Tighten any loose connections.
- Replace worn O-rings or gaskets.
- If you find cracks in pipes, you may need to repair or replace the damaged section. Use appropriate PVC cement and fittings.
5. Prime the Pump
Sometimes, the pump loses its prime, meaning it’s no longer filled with water. This prevents it from creating suction and filtering properly.
How to Prime the Pump
- Turn off the pump.
- Open the air relief valve on top of the filter (if your filter has one).
- Open the pump basket lid and fill the pump basket housing with water using a garden hose.
- Replace the pump basket lid securely.
- Turn the pump on.
- If the pump doesn’t prime within a minute or two, turn it off, repeat steps 3 and 4, and try again. You may need to repeat this process several times.
- Once the pump is primed, close the air relief valve.
6. Check the Valves
Incorrectly positioned valves can redirect water flow, bypassing the filter or restricting it.
What to Look For
- Valves that are partially closed.
- Valves that are set to the wrong position (e.g., bypassing the filter altogether).
How to Fix It
- Ensure that all valves are fully open and correctly positioned to allow water to flow through the filter. Refer to your pool’s plumbing diagram or consult with a pool professional if you are unsure of the proper valve positions.
7. Consider the Age of the Filter Media
Over time, filter media (sand or DE) can become less effective. Sand can become compacted, and DE can become saturated with oils and other contaminants.
Signs Your Filter Media Needs Replacing
- Cloudy water even after cleaning the filter.
- Frequent backwashing (for sand and DE filters).
- High pressure readings even after backwashing.
How to Replace Filter Media
- Sand Filter: Sand should be replaced every 3-5 years. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for draining and replacing the sand.
- DE Filter: DE filter grids can become damaged or clogged. Inspect them regularly and replace them as needed. The DE powder itself needs replenishing after each backwash, as described earlier.
Pool Filtering FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot your pool’s filtration issues.
Why is my pool not filtering properly even after cleaning the filter?
Even a clean filter can struggle if other parts of the system are blocked. Check the pump strainer basket for debris, and ensure the skimmer baskets are clear. A blockage elsewhere in the system can prevent adequate water flow and lead to your pool not filtering.
How often should I be backwashing my pool filter?
Backwashing frequency depends on pool usage and environmental factors. Typically, backwash when the filter pressure gauge reads 8-10 PSI higher than its normal operating pressure. Regular backwashing ensures proper flow and keeps the pool not filtering due to a dirty filter.
Could low water level be causing my pool filtering problem?
Yes, absolutely. If the water level is too low, the skimmer may suck in air instead of water. This introduces air into the system, hindering proper water circulation and preventing the pool not filtering effectively. Maintain the water level at the midpoint of the skimmer opening.
What if I’ve tried all the fixes and my pool is still not filtering?
If you’ve checked everything and your pool not filtering, it might indicate a more serious issue. It could be a problem with the pump motor, a damaged impeller, or a collapsed line. Consider contacting a qualified pool service technician for further diagnosis and repair.
So, hopefully, you’ve got your pool not filtering issues sorted out and can get back to enjoying that sparkling water! Don’t hesitate to check back if any problems pop up again, and happy swimming!