Pool filtration time: information and duration 

If the pump operates at an incorrect flow rate, it can disrupt the entire pool treatment process. A low flow rate may stop chlorine production or reduce the daily water recirculation ratio (daily pool turnover), making the water unsafe and unclear due to insufficient chemical treatment and filtration.

The most crucial factor is the pool volume. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula, industry experience suggests recirculating the entire pool volume 2 to 3 times per day.

For example, a 50-cubic-meter pool targeting 3 recirculations per day should treat 150 cubic meters daily. If the pump delivers 15 m³/h (with a filter sized accordingly), you should program 10 running hours per day. This ensures water transparency and homogeneous treatment.

Higher temperatures promote algae and organism growth, requiring longer filtration times.

Increased usage adds organic load, demanding more pump running hours to maintain clean water.

1. Equipment Requirements: Ensure the filtration time slot supports other devices, like saltwater chlorinators, which need sufficient time to produce the required chlorine. Similarly, heating systems need adequate time to reach and maintain the target temperature.
2. Environment and Weather: Pools in rural areas with dust and leaves need more filtration than urban or indoor pools.

Given the numerous factors, how do you set the pump running hours?

1. High Turnover Rate: Use a turnover rate of 2.5 to 3.5 for high-demand filtration.

2. Average Pool: Aim for 2 to 3 recirculations per day.

3. Low-Demand Pool: A turnover rate of 1.5 to 2.5 should suffice.

    

Calculate the filtration hours based on your pool volume and the factors mentioned above. Start running the pool and monitor its cleanliness for the first few weeks, adjusting the hours if necessary.

• Summer: With higher usage and temperatures, a high turnover rate is recommended.
  
• Winter: Reduce filtration hours or even hibernate the pool to save on maintenance and operating costs. However, many pool owners prefer maintaining the pool year-round, which might only require 1 to 3 hours of daily filtration, depending on the dirt load and desired cleanliness.

Recent advancements in pump technology, such as variable speed pumps, offer more efficient solutions. These pumps allow for programming different motor speeds and water flow rates, providing several benefits:

1. Energy Savings: Lower energy consumption.

2. Low Noise: Quieter operation.

3. Improved Filtration: Better water clarity due to lower flow rates through sand filters.

    

For variable speed pumps, calculate the filtration time similarly but account for different flow slots. This results in longer filtration times (1.5 to 2 times longer compared to traditional pumps) but with reduced energy consumption and added benefits.

Set the pool filtration duration based primarily on pool volume, then adjust according to pool usage, weather conditions, and equipment requirements. After a few days of operation, visually inspect the pool cleanliness and adjust the filtration hours if necessary.

Enjoy your pool!