Pool filtration

Pool Filtration

Pool filtration: essential for crystal clear water

Without an effective system, impurities, algae, and bacteria can quickly accumulate. At Poolplanet, we offer quality equipment from renowned brands such as Pentair. If you are looking to improve your installation, consider variable-speed pumps, which offer numerous advantages, including better energy efficiency. Discover our blog article to learn more about this innovative technology.

Complete equipment for an efficient filtration system

A good filtration system is not limited to the pump. To ensure optimal operation, it is important to have the right accessories: filters, valves, pressure gauges, and spare parts. On Poolplanet, you will find everything you need for the maintenance and improvement of your installation and your technical room. If you want to optimize a classic pump, Aquagem's ISAVER speed regulator is an excellent solution. It allows you to transform your pump into a variable-speed model, thus reducing energy consumption by up to 80%.

Which filtration system to choose?

The choice of filtration system depends on several criteria: the size of the pool, the frequency of use, your budget, or your type of pool. There are three main types of filters:

• Sand filter: the most common, easy to maintain, and suitable for most pools.
• Cartridge filter: offers finer filtration but requires more frequent cleaning.
• Diatomaceous earth filter: the most efficient, but also the most expensive and demanding in terms of maintenance.

How does pool filtration work?

Pool filtration relies on a continuous filtration circuit to maintain clear and healthy water. The pool water is first drawn in by the skimmers and main drain, capturing suspended particles present on the surface and bottom of the pool. It is then sent to the pump, which mechanically propels the water through the filter.

The filter plays an essential role in retaining suspended particles, thus preventing their return to the pool. Finally, the clean water is redistributed into the pool via the return jets, ensuring homogeneous circulation throughout the circuit. This process, combined with regular maintenance, guarantees clear water pleasant for swimming.

What is the ideal filtration duration?

The filtration duration mainly depends on the water temperature. A simple rule is to divide the temperature by two: Water at 24°C → approximately 12 hours per day

Water below 12°C requires very little filtration time (1 to 3 hours) as impurities and microorganisms develop much less quickly in cold water. In winter, connect your filtration motor to a dedicated frost protection device to automatically start the motor as soon as your pool water approaches 0°C. This device is specifically designed to prevent pipes from freezing by automatically starting the filtration pump to allow water to circulate minimally and thus avoid chemical treatment.
Above 30°C, we advise maintaining continuous movement in your pool, meaning functional filtration 24/7. However, with a variable-speed pump, you can reduce the operating speed during nighttime hours.

In case of high heat or frequent use, it is advisable to increase the filtration time to prevent the proliferation of algae and bacteria.

How to maintain the filtration system?

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the efficiency of your filtration. Cleaning the filter is crucial, whether it's by rinsing a cartridge or backwashing a sand filter. The filter block should also be taken into account to avoid water loss and other specific problems. The pump must also be checked and ensured to function correctly without obstruction; otherwise, it needs cleaning. Finally, skimmers must be regularly emptied to prevent the accumulation of leaves and debris. Good maintenance extends the lifespan of your equipment and ensures consistently clear water. Regularly cleaning the components and sealed parts of the filtration kit is essential. This includes washing the sand filter or replacing the filter cartridge. Maintenance of the technical room and electrical box also contributes to optimal filtration and avoids any power loss.

What types of filters are available?

The choice of filter media has a direct impact on water quality and the efficiency of the pool filtration system. There are three main types of parts, each playing a role in different filtration fineness (in microns):

• Sand filter: economical and easy to maintain, it uses sand or glass as a filter media. It captures impurities down to 40 microns, which is suitable for most pools. Its main drawback is its size and therefore the space it takes up in your technical room.
• Cartridge filter: equipped with a pleated membrane, it offers better filtration fineness (10 to 20 microns), but requires more frequent cleaning.
• Diatomaceous earth filter: the most efficient, it uses fossilized micro-algae as filter media, capturing particles down to 3 microns. Its maintenance is more demanding.
• The right choice of filter media depends on the desired level of maintenance and the required filtration quality. A correctly sized filter media ensures pure water while optimizing the lifespan of the filtration system.

How to calculate the filtration flow rate in m³/h?

To ensure efficient pool filtration, it is essential to match the pump to the volume of the pool and the hydraulic circuit. The filtration capacity, expressed in m³/h, represents the amount of water drawn in and filtered. It is calculated with the following function:

Flow rate m³/h = Pool volume (m³) ÷ Filtration time (h)

For example, for a 40 m³ pool requiring filtration for 6 hours, the ideal pump capacity will be 7 m³/h. A filtration capacity that is too low will result in poorly filtered water and a risk of algae proliferation. Conversely, a filtration capacity that is too high can disrupt the hydraulic circuit, prematurely wear out the filter, and consume more energy than necessary. It is therefore crucial to choose a suitable pump and ensure good water circulation for optimal and economical filtration.

What accessories for pool filtration?

Certain accessories optimize filtration efficiency:

• Skimmers: capture surface impurities.
• Valves and pressure gauges: facilitate water circuit management.
• Speed controllers: optimize the pump and reduce energy consumption.

By equipping your pool with the right equipment in your technical room, you extend the lifespan of your pool equipment while saving energy.

What are common problems associated with pool filtration systems and how to solve them?

Several problems can affect the efficiency of a pool filtration system. One of the most frequent is a reduced flow rate, often caused by a clogged filter or an obstructed pump. The solution is to regularly clean the filter and check that the pump does not contain debris. another common concern is the presence of air in the circuit, which can prevent good water circulation. It is recommended to purge air from the system via the filter's purge valve. Finally, if the water remains cloudy despite filtration, this may be due to incorrect chemical dosage, an undersized filter, or insufficient filtration time. Adjusting these parameters usually restores clear water.

What is automatic pH regulation and how can it influence the filtering action of water?

Automatic pH regulation maintains an optimal pH level without manual intervention. A balanced pH (between 7.2 and 7.6) is essential to ensure the effectiveness of treatment products and prevent the appearance of algae. When the pH is too high, chlorine becomes less active and the water can become cloudy, forcing the system to treat more... Conversely, a pH that is too low can corrode equipment and damage the filter. Thanks to an automatic regulator, the pH is continuously adjusted, thus ensuring more effective filtration and better water quality.

How can the use of a pool cover affect the frequency and efficiency of filtration?

A fitted pool cover reduces the amount of impurities that fall into the water, such as leaves, dust, and insects. Fewer impurities mean less effort for the pump and filter, which can reduce daily filtration time. By limiting water evaporation, a cover also helps stabilize chlorine and pH levels, preserving the effectiveness of the treatment. Furthermore, an insulated cover maintains the water temperature and thus your pool heating, avoiding variations that can promote algae proliferation. In summary, using a pool cover saves energy, reduces the frequency of filter cleaning, and optimizes the lifespan of your system.