Is your swimming pool filter frequently clogged? Several factors, such as excessive dirt, suboptimal filter cleaning, damaged filters, and poor water flow, can be the main causes of frequent clogging of pool filters.
To understand why these causes can lead to frequent clogging of pool filters, let's discuss them one by one.
Why my pool filter keeps clogging?
Basically, many factors can influence why the swimming pool filter becomes clogged frequently. However, in general, the problems that often cause this to happen are due to the following reasons:
- Excessive dirt entering the pool area
Excessive dirt in the pool can cause the pool to become clogged. This excess dirt can be brought in by people using the pool itself, or even from weather factors, especially if your pool is in an open area. If you have recently had a storm or a windy dry season, dust and other dirt will be more easily carried to the surface of your pool. This is what sometimes causes your pool filter to collect more debris than usual, which can lead to clogging. - Previous filter cleaning was not optimal
Swimming pool filters need to be cleaned regularly. In addition, detailed cleaning is also necessary to reach small gaps that can cause blockages. If this is not done, dirt will accumulate in these small gaps and may cause the filter to become clogged again at any time. - Damaged pre-filter
If the initial filters such as skimmers and pre-filters are damaged, large debris such as leaves, insects, and hair will go directly to the main filter. This can reduce filtration efficiency and cause clogging of the main filter media. - Poor water flow
Uneven water flow in swimming pools can cause clogged filters, which can occur when debris accumulates at certain points. This accumulated debris causes the pool water filter to work harder and clog more quickly. In addition, slow water flow can accelerate the growth of algae and bacteria, which then enter the pool water filter, accelerating clogging of the water filter. - Oversaturated biological filter
Some swimming pools typically use biological filters as media for beneficial bacteria to live in. These beneficial bacteria can break down harmful ammonia and nitrite into non-toxic compounds to maintain the water balance in swimming pools.
When this biological filter becomes too saturated, it indicates that the beneficial bacteria can no longer break down all the organic waste in the water. As a result, organic waste will accumulate in the form of sludge, slime, or very fine dirt.
Excessive accumulation of organic waste will be carried away by water flow and clog mechanical filters, especially if the filters have fine pores. Bacteria and algae that grow due to biological imbalances can cause water filter clogging. It should be noted that algae are plants that can grow and clog water filters very quickly.
How to fix a clogged pool filter?
A clogged swimming pool can be a challenge for pool owners, but it is possible to handle this problem yourself. Cleaning a clogged swimming pool can be done through a systematic approach and, of course, with the right tools. Here is a guide you can follow when dealing with a clogged swimming pool:
- Identification of blockage sources
First, you can check the skimmer and water pump for debris such as leaves, hair, or other large debris. Next, check the water flow in the suction and return lines, observe the condition of the water to see if the flow is weak or there is no water flow at all. Then check the cartridge filter, sand or DE filter. If the pump pressure is high and the flow is low, the filter is likely clogged.
- Self-cleaning steps
- Clean the skimmer and pump basket
First, turn off the pump, then lift and clean the skimmer of debris. Don't forget to rinse it with clean water. - Perform backwash (for sand or DE filters)
Set the valve to the “Backwash” position, then turn on the pump for 2-3 minutes or until clear water begins to flow out, then continue with ‘Rinse’ for 30 seconds before returning to “Filter”. - Clean the cartridge filter
First remove the cartridge, then clean it and spray it with pressurized water. If the cartridge is very dirty, you can soak it in a filter cleaning solution. - Use a drain snake or jet nozzle
If your pool drain is completely clogged, you can use a drain snake or jet nozzle to push the debris out of the pipe.
- Clean the skimmer and pump basket
Conclusion
Here are some things you can do if your pool filter is constantly clogged. However, if your pool condition does not improve after doing the above, you may need an expert to handle your clogged pool. You can contact Bali Arsitek for pool maintenance services and solutions to your pool problems.
