Intex 110-120V sand filter pump PSI

[amcott13]

Hello,

I was curious as to what good PSI for my 1,200 gph sand filter should be. It currently reads 5psi. Is that good? Is it bad? I have no clue. Thanks!

 

[Mr Bruce]

That sounds low. If it goes to 0 when off, and rises as it gets dirty, is lower on recirculate, it's probably fine. That would mean you backwash at 6, which is probably hard to tell from 5.

They sell really cheap ones in the pool store, and the TFTestKits.net one is a little more but way worth it. I was changing them out once a year but the TFTestKits.net one should last a while, is easy to read, etc.

 

[amcott13]

If it's low, what should I check?

 

[Mr Bruce]

Are the returns strong? Will ping pong balls move around the pool? Is the skimmer suction strong?

There isn't a "standard" PSI, you just go with what you've got if everything seems to be working.

If your returns are weak, you can always try Deep Cleaning a Sand Filter Usually results in much better flow.

 

[amcott13]

My return is very strong and I can see it. The suction is what it's suppose to be. I just didn't know if there was a standard PSI. Thank you for your help!

 

[VikingPoolMan]

Sounds a little low to me.... how old is the filter? What horse power pump? Hows the water clarity? As long as everything is working and the water is clear, it's probably ok.

 

[amcott13]

The filter is brand new, first time setting it up and I'm not sure how many HP it is but the voltage is 110-120 if that helps...Water is clear too.

 

[jcp]

I upgraded my gauge to the one sold by tftestkits. It's a nice gauge. That being said I've got one of the larger Intex pumps and sand filters from a couple years ago. My typically starts at about 9-10psi after a backwash.

 

[VikingPoolMan]

The 110-120 V doesn't help...not a big deal though. If it's new, then your filter is probably fine (you might have a weaker pump - 3/4HP, for example). If your water stays clear, it's working.

 

[mas985]

Intex pumps are quite weak and the 1200 GPH is especially small so 5 PSI does not seem low to me.