High Filter Pressure

[aawarnock]

Hi,
I am opening my pool for the first time by myself. I noticed the pressure gauge in my filter is high at 40. I don't know when or how it got there. Last I remember it was around 15. It was high before I turned on pump for the year. I thought maybe I could backwash or waste water but pressure went higher and water spurted from somewhere making me concerned it is real, instead of a faulty gauge. It is an old filter with no pressure relief mechanism I can find. What could cause this? How do I remove gauge and try a new one? Is there real danger, at what pressure am I really at risk for damaging pipes or explosion?
aawarnock

 

[AimeeH]

Welcome to TFP

Is the gauge at 0 when the pump is off? If not, you clearly have a faulty gauge. I suspect that is the case. It should just screw off and screw a new one on using some plumbers pipe thread tape.

 

[aawarnock]

It is at 40 when the pump is off. I feel so much better but a little stupid. Don't laugh! I am so new at this. Okay, always laugh but thank you SO much for your help, I was worried.

 

[AimeeH]

It is at 40 when the pump is off. I feel so much better but a little stupid. Don't laugh! I am so new at this. Okay, always laugh but thank you SO much for your help, I was worried.

No need to feel stupid.