Can I Install Pool Filter Above Water Level?

Yes, you can install a pool filter above the water level. This is common for many above-ground pools or those with limited installation space. The filter must be in a position allowing water to flow in and out of the filter easily. If the filter is installed too high, it can cause excessive back pressure on the pump, potentially shortening its life. It is also essential to ensure adequate drainage for any overflow or backwash wastewater so that it does not damage the pool’s structure.

Can I install a pool filter above the water level?

Yes, you can install a pool filter above the water level. However, there are some important considerations to be aware of before making this choice.

• The pump must be able to lift water from below the skimmer to fill the filter and other equipment.
  The filter must handle the pressure of water lifted from a higher level.
• The pool should be designed with adequate overflow capacity and drainage to prevent flooding in case of a malfunction or excessive rain.
• It is essential to ensure proper circulation by periodically checking the pump and backwashing the filter as recommended.

Tools Required For Installation

• Screwdriver
• Garden hose
• Garden hose adapter
• Pool filter
• Level
• Socket set

Where To Put Out The Pump And Filter?

Installing a pool filter and pump above the water level is not as common as installing them below the water line, but it can be done. When installing equipment above the water line, select a filter that does not require priming. Also, check with local building codes about any regulations controlling the installation of these components overhead. Selecting a pump with enough power to lift the water up and over the pool’s edge is also essential. Ensure your filter and pump are appropriately supported so they do not fall or become unstable.

How To Install Pool Filter Above Water Filter?

Choose the type of pool filter: You should choose a pool filter designed for installation above water level. Consider the pool size and type of filter, such as sand or cartridge, that best suits the installation.

Pick a location for the pool filter: When installing your pool filter, it’s essential to consider the location of the filter. Ideally, you should install your filter above the water level. This will provide more consistent results when water filtering and reduce potential problems with air entering the system.

Turn off the pool pump: After you have determined the correct filtration system for your pool, you can proceed with the installation. To ensure everything goes smoothly and safely, turn off the pool pump before doing any work.

Assemble the pool filter: Assemble the pieces of the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure all pieces are correctly connected, and there is no water leakage before continuing with the installation.

Prepare the piping connections: The most important thing to remember when installing pool filters above water level is to ensure the piping connections are adequately prepared. All water inlet and outlet pipes must be sealed and tightly connected, with a siphon break at the bottom of the filter. An air relief valve should also be installed on all the pipes to prevent air from entering the system. In addition, all the piping should be installed at a slight angle toward the filter.

Connect the pool filter with the pool filter pipeline: To work correctly, the pool filter needs to be connected to the pipeline. To do so, you will need a pump, suction line, and additional piping components.

Record the initial internal pipeline: Record the initial internal pipeline for the pool filter installation.

Set up the filter tank: Set up the filter tank at least 18 inches above the water level. If possible, set it up even higher, so there is no risk of flooding. Install a check valve between the pump and filter tank to prevent backflow into the pool when the pump shuts off.

Add the filter sand and water: Once the filter has been installed, you can now add filter sand and water. Generally, you will need 20-30 kilograms of pool filter sand per 0.1 square meters of filtration area. This should be slowly added to the filter until it is complete. Once complete, you can turn on the pump and allow the water to start circulating.

Install the filter valve: Install the filter valve above the water level.

Install the remaining hose and pipes: Once the filter has been positioned above the water level, it is time to attach the remaining hoses and pipes. Two sets of 1-1/2 inch flexible hoses for suction and return connections to the filter’s bottom ports. The other end of these hoses should be connected to a pump (or skimmer, if appropriate). A third hose (or pipe) should connect the pump’s discharge port to the filter’s top port.

How To Raise Pool Water Level?

Step 1: Shut off the pump and skimmer line valves and reduce the pressure inside the filter by adjusting the valve on the lid.

Step 2: Connect a garden hose to the pool pump and point it towards your lawn or another downhill area.

Step 3: Turn on the pump and allow the water in the pool to fill up until it reaches the desired level; be careful not to overfill, as this could cause damage to your equipment.

Step 4:  Turn off the pump, and if need be, adjust the skimmer line valve to lower or raise the water level accordingly.

Step 5: Reconnect any disconnected hoses and turn on the pump to return your pool system to its normal operation mode.

Step 6: If you plan on filling it up with a hose, ensure it is connected to a water source that can provide enough pressure to raise the pool level reasonably.

Step 7: Make sure your filter lid is securely closed and all connections are properly sealed if you use it while filling up with water.

Step 8: Monitor the water level while filling and adjust the pressure valve as needed to keep it from overfilling.

Step 9:  Once your pool is at its desired level, shut off the pump and disconnect any hoses used to fill up with water.

Step 10: Ensure all valves are properly adjusted for proper water circulation.

Step 11: Open the skimmer line valves and turn on the pump to return your pool system to its normal operation mode.

Step 12: Check for leaks from the hoses, connections, and filter lid before leaving it unattended.

Safety Tips

Do not store chemicals around a pool: When it comes to safety, you mustn’t store any chemicals.

Do not permit children to operate the filter: You mustn’t permit children to operate the pool filter system. This can lead to accidents and potential injury if not done correctly.

The filter should not be operated above 45 degrees Centigrade: Additionally, the filter should not be operated above 45 degrees Centigrade or higher. If the temperature is too high, it can cause damage to the filter’s components and lead to costly repairs.

Always turn off the pump before changing the valve: It is essential to turn it off before attempting any maintenance or change on the filter valve. This will ensure that the system is not damaged due to a sudden power surge.

Keep the pool water at the proper level: It is also essential to keep it at a suitable level. If the water level is too low, it can cause excessive strain on the filter and lead to damage.

FAQs

Can I turn my pool filter off for a week?

Yes, you can turn off your pool filter for a week. However, turning the filter on periodically throughout the week is best.

Can I connect a pump to a swimming pool?

Yes, you can connect a pump to a swimming pool. However, the pump should be placed below the water level to create proper circulation through the pool filter and back into the swimming pool.

How often should the sand be replaced in a pool filter?

The amount of time needed between sand filter changes can vary depending on the size and usage of your pool, but it is generally recommended that you change the media in your sand filter every three to five years.

What happens if your swimming pool water filter is too high?

Installing the filter above the water level is not recommended, as it can cause various problems. It creates suction that cannot be broken easily, meaning you’re more likely to have an overflow or other damage due to a lack of proper circulation.

Can an above-ground pool pump be used on an inground pool?

Yes, an above-ground pool pump can be used on an inground pool. However, it is essential to make sure you choose an appropriate pump for the size of the pool and the type of filter system you are using.

What is the ideal water level for a swimming pool?

The ideal water level for a swimming pool is generally between the middle and top of the skimmer box. This ensures that surface debris and dirt can be removed from the pool and allows adequate water circulation to ensure balanced chemical levels. The water should never exceed 1/2 inch above the skimmer’s opening; any higher can cause the filter to become overloaded and unable to clean the pool adequately.

Conclusion

It is possible to install a pool filter above the water level. However, the decision might depend on pool size, shape, and proximity to other houses or buildings. Additionally, before making any changes to your pool system, it is essential to consult a professional for advice and assistance. This will help ensure that the filter is installed correctly and can operate safely and effectively. Ultimately, installing a pool filter above water level may be a viable solution for some pools but should only be done with the advice of an experienced professional.