Cara's Pool School

The first indicator of a cartridge needing to be replaced could be severe bloating of the pleats (folds of the cartridge) or inability to proper cleanse with routine maintenance. D.E. grids should be replaced if debris appears to be bypassing the filter and returning directly back to the pool, as this will typically indicate the cloth-like material that covers the grids has been torn. Otherwise, grid replacement should take place if physical inspection shows any rips, tears, or structural breakage of the grid's framework. You should always verify proper operating pressure on the filter as a quick indicator of possible...

This can vary, dependent upon the particular set-up application. If the valve controls flow between the skimmer and main drains, the most common ratio is roughly 50/50 -- keeping in mind that pools with more floating debris may prefer a slight advantage toward the skimmer. If the valve is controlling flow between the skimmer and a separate suction port in the wall, the ratio should be determined by the flow required for the cleaner or vacuum connected to the wall port -- remembering to follow manufacturer's recommendations for the cleaner or vacuum for optimal flow/suction. If the valve determines the...

Since the in-floor cleaning system (pop-up's) is part of your pool's circulation and filtration system, it is always recommended to ensure that it is operating properly at all times.

Any dirt or debris should be removed as soon as possible to avoid potential damage or staining to the finish, along with cleaning the filter (backwashing) and emptying the pump and skimmer baskets. It's a good idea to also shock the pool and, if there is a persistent clarity issue, using a clarifier could speed up the filtration process.

First, perform a complete water test to ensure that proper water balance parameters are in line and that salt and stabilizer levels are adequate. If so, most chlorine production issues tend to stem from the salt cell of the unit needing to be cleaned or replaced.