Intro to Circulation & Filtration
Position Return Jets
Position Return Jets
Position Return Jets
Step # 1 - Correctly aiming return jets ensures proper water circulation and directs debris to the skimmer. This prevents algae buildup, improves water clarity, and reduces cleaning effort while maintaining balanced, healthy water.
24/7 Circulation
Position Return Jets
Position Return Jets
Step # 2 - Continuous circulation keeps pool water moving, preventing algae and bacteria buildup. It evenly distributes chemicals and pushes debris to the filter. To ensure clear, clean water, circulation must run 24/7—without it, balanced chemistry and filtration aren’t possible.
Empty Skimmer & Filter Baskets
Empty Skimmer & Filter Baskets
Empty Skimmer & Filter Baskets
Step # 3 - Emptying the skimmer and pump baskets keeps water flowing and prevents clogs. The skimmer catches surface debris; the pump basket traps heavier particles.
Clean Pool Filter
Empty Skimmer & Filter Baskets
Empty Skimmer & Filter Baskets
Step # 4 - Cleaning your pool filter is essential for clear, healthy water and efficient circulation. Regular maintenance removes trapped debris, reduces system strain, and helps your filtration system perform at its best — keeping your water clean and inviting.
Position Return Jets
Aim Return Jets Strategically
Above-Ground Pools:
- Aim jets straight down and at a 45-degree angle away from the skimmer.
- This encourages water flow beneath the surface, pushing debris gently toward the skimmer basket.
Inground Pools:
- Position jets to be aimed downward and arranged strategically around the pool.
- This creates a natural whirlpool effect that spins water along the bottom and forms a subtle whirlpool at the surface without breaking surface tension.
- This surface movement directs floating debris toward the skimmer, keeping it from sinking.
Why it matters:
Keeping water flow below the surface tension prevents debris from sinking to the pool floor, which would require vacuuming. Floating debris is easily caught by the skimmer basket—much quicker and less labor-intensive to empty than vacuuming the pool.
Pro Tip:
Angle return jets slightly downward and make sure they all push water in the same circular direction. After pool use or cleaning, check and adjust jet positions as needed to maintain optimal circulation.
24/7 Circulation
Circulate the Water
Keep the pool pump running around the clock to ensure continuous water movement through the filtration system.
Quick Check: Place your hand in front of a return jet — you should feel strong, steady flow.
This simple check helps confirm the pump is running properly and can indicate if the filter is clogged or needs cleaning.
Why it matters:
Continuous circulation disperses chemicals evenly, removes contaminants, and prevents stagnant water where algae and bacteria can thrive.
Pro Tip:
Use a variable-speed pump to reduce energy costs. Running at lower speeds during off-peak hours still maintains circulation while using less power. Be sure the pump is on during the hottest and most-used parts of the day to help filter bather waste and maintain water chemistry.
Empty the Skimmer & Pump Baskets
Empty the Skimmer and Pump Baskets
The pool uses two types of baskets to clear debris from your pool’s filtration system:
- Skimmer Basket: Removes floating debris like leaves, bugs, and twigs caught at the water surface.
- Pump Basket: Captures heavier debris that could clog the pump, such as small stones or accumulated dirt.
Why it matters:
Emptying these baskets improves water circulation, prevents blockages, and protects your pump from damage caused by clogged debris.
Pro Tip:
Empty both baskets before and after vacuuming to keep your system running smoothly and avoid overloading the pump.
Filter Cleaning
Clean the Pool Filter
Quick Check:
Place your hand in front of a return jet — if the flow feels weak or unsteady, it may indicate a restriction caused by a clogged skimmer basket, pump basket, or dirty filter.
Also check the pressure gauge: if it reads 8–10 psi above the normal starting pressure (typically between 10-15 psi), it’s time to clean the filter.
Why it matters:
A clean filter ensures optimal water circulation, better chemical distribution, and helps keep your pool clear and safe.
Sand Filter:
- Turn off the pump. Set the multiport valve to Backwash, then restart the pump. Run for 2–3 minutes keeping to the time and not just if the water in the sight glass runs clear.
- Turn off the pump again, set the valve to Rinse, and run for 30–60 seconds.
- Finally, turn off the pump, return the valve to Filter, and restart the system.
Cartridge Filter:
- Turn off the pump. Open the filter housing and carefully remove the cartridge(s).
- Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose, spraying between the pleats to remove debris.
- For deep cleaning, soak the cartridge in a filter cleaner solution overnight, then rinse again before reinstalling.
Pro Tip:
Keep a record of your normal filter pressure after a fresh cleaning. This makes it easy to know exactly when it's time to clean again — before water flow becomes a problem.
