Filter Problems

by Lee
(Indiana)

I change the sand in my filter every year (because I take the filter inside during the winter, it's just easier to empty out every year). This year the water flow from the pump is really strong and I cannot control the algae.

When I apply chemicals, it seems that the water isn't as clear even though I keep my pump on 24/7. When I vacuum the pool, the algae is blown back in even after I backwash. The pool is a 24 ft above ground pool.

I'm wondering if I didn't add enough sand to the filter when I changed the sand in May. Could this be why I can never get the pool cleaned and my water flow is really strong?

Any help would surely be appreciated.



Hi Lee. I would say the chances are very good your filter is fine. Mustard algae will blow right through a sand filter and go back into the pool. It takes a combination of running the filter 24/7, the right kind of algaecide and some vinyl shock treatment.

Having your water tested and reporting about the algae to the salesperson might get you hooked up with the right products to clear the water. Mustard Algae can be very tough to get rid of but until you do your water will not clear up all the way.

It is also a good idea to vacuum the pool every day in the waist position. Send the algae out the waist port, not back into the pool.