Pressure Gauge for Sand Filter?

[ED-209]

Greetings everyone,

Gotta another question (I know, surprise surprise LOL)

When I got my Sand Filter (in signature below) installed in December 2011 I noticed they plugged the opening where the pressure gauge went and when I asked they told me they have so many issues with them, usually leaking or breaking after winter season, they just stopped installing them but I could come by and pick it up if I wanted it and install it myself. I asked how do I tell when I need to backwash and he said to just do it every 2 to 3 weeks.

So after learning the ways of BBB and TFP I didn't know if I should get a pressure gauge, which size and if I just unscrew the plug and screw in the gauge and if I use plumber's tape? I think they used silicone to seal around the plug.

My previous filter had one, not same type, and I had it for more than one winter season and it never broke or leaked.

I have been backwashing every 2 or 3 weeks and it hasn't been real dirty while backwashing. Also I will be getting a screen pool cage installed in about 2 weeks so even less debris will exist so didn't know if I should even mess with getting one?

Thanks for the help and expertise and hope this is the right thread to post this in, if not apologies

 

[duraleigh]

I think the gauge is an essential part of your filtering system. I also think they are dunderheads for telling you it wasn't important.

So, the fitting is almost always 1/4" npt and about three turns of teflon tape around the threads should be all you need to seal it.

As soon as you get it in, backwash thoroughly and record the psi. That is your clean psi or "starting point". Then backwash whenever the psi get about 25% higher that your starting point.

Send your filter supplier to Pool School

 

[Bama Rambler]

I recommend a 0-30 psi gauge. Most sand filters run about 10 to 12 psi clean so 30 psi is plenty.

 

[bobodaclown]

Don't want to swap it out every season or so get a liquid filled gauge. A little more expensive, but worth it. If you winterize you could always remove it from the filter in the winter and store it in side with the rest of the pool stuff.
I've got something like this on mine: http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/ ... 8296_48296

 

[ED-209]

Thanks everyone. I was gonna call them to get my free one but too scared it would be used so will either order one or pick one up.

I agree, they need to take a lot of classes on this site's pool school.

 

[scooperhsd]

You could always take it out when you close the pool for the season as well. That's what I do...