Checking Your Pool Equipment

Before we delve into steps 2 - 5 of The EZ Clear Pool Care System™, let’s check your pool equipment. By performing these simple steps, you are ensured that EVERYTHING is in proper working order. Rather than fi ll this chapter with excessive photos, I have referred you to the proper pages in the descriptions below. (don’t worry, they are all in the next two chapters). Mark the chart on the next page and bring it to your pool store. Be sure to bring the parts that need to be replaced also.

Cartridge Filters - In order to ensure that your filter system is working efficiently, we are going to do a simple test. Although this may seem tedious, if your filter is bad, your pool filter will not perform at maximum efficiency. Remove filter and clean. How bad does it look? Are the bands around it broken? Do the grids remain dirty and discolored even after cleaning? Does the filter feel heavy even after you clean it? When was the last time you replaced the filter? If it is more than 12 - 18 months old you need a new one.

Filter Housing O-Ring - Set filter aside and examine gasket on housing top. Does the gasket fi t snugly in the indentation around the filter? If so, this is good. Is the gasket loose or stretched? Can you fi t your finger in between the gasket and the housing? Is the gasket cracked or does it have fl at spots? If yes, replace it right away as it will give you problems when you put the housing back together.

Pump basket O-Ring - Remove pump basket lid and check o-ring for cracks or flat spots. This is a critical part of the pressure so make sure it is in good condition. Lubricate before putting it back on. If you can’t remove lid, purchase a pump lid wrench from your pool store.

Pump basket - Remove pump basket. Most baskets require a quarter turn to remove it. Others lift right out but have to be put back the same way. Pay attention as to how you remove it. Is it cracked or broken? Do you have trouble taking it out? If so, replace.

Pressure Gauge - When you turned off your motor, did your pressure gauge needle go down? If so, this is good. If it did not move, you will need a new pressure gauge. A standard pressure gauge requires a 1/2” open-end wrench (or larger). When you purchase a new pressure gauge, try to buy one that has three needles in it, black, green and red. The black needle shows you the PSI (pounds per square inch) when the pump is on. The red and green needles can be set to let you know when the filter is clean and dirty.

Skimmer basket & Lid - Turn off motor, lift the skimmer lid from the hole on deck adjacent to your pool. This hole can range from 4" - 8" and you will see a skimmer basket. Remove basket and check for cracks or breaks. Replace if broken. Check skimmer lid. Is it brittle, or cracked? No? Are you sure? Keep this in mind: If someone steps on top
of an old skimmer lid, their foot could break it, get caught in the hole and any number of accidents could occur. Be sure that this is a sturdy cover. If you have any doubts, replace it. Some covers were made before certain safety standards were established. Today, stronger, and sturdier covers can replace an older design.