Newbie pump and cover

[Bicster]

Hey guys,

Newbie here with an Intex 12x30 round, metal frame pool.

I finished filling it today and after reading this forum l’m off tomorrow to get one of the $10 two stage test kits recommended. For now I’ve added two chemicals at the doses recommended in the chemical kit I bought with the pool - stabilized chlorine granules and an anti-algae liquid.

Anyway, my question is about the filter - how long/often should it be running?

I am reading lots of people criticizing the filter shipped with my pool. Is this something I should proactively address, or am I good to keep it until it dies and deal with it then?

Secondly, the solar covers. I looks like a $40 piece of blue bubble wrap to me. Are they worth it? Do they do anything to help warm up the pool?


Thanks in advance! [emoji120]

 

[Texas Splash]

We run our pumps long enough to help maintain a clean water surface (debris to the skimmer), mix chemicals, and vacuum if needed. Each pool is different, so it's best to start at about 8 hrs or so and adjust up or down from there. No one perfect run time for everyone. You might want to see our Pool School - Determine Pump Run Time page.

Afraid I can't help you with the solar cover. Maybe someone else will chime in on that one.

 

[Bicster]

Thanks for that, really need to look at this forum through a computer to find things like that myself! [emoji846]

Anyway, I’ think I’ll start with 5 hours and go from there. I figure with the stock pump it will take about 4 hours to cycle the water, so 5 hours gives me some buffer. I’m going to run it during the night (when electricity is cheaper) and after I’ve added daily chlorine.

Very interested to hear any experiences with the solar covers!!

 

[jeremycrook]

Thanks for that, really need to look at this forum through a computer to find things like that myself! [emoji846]

Anyway, I’ think I’ll start with 5 hours and go from there. I figure with the stock pump it will take about 4 hours to cycle the water, so 5 hours gives me some buffer. I’m going to run it during the night (when electricity is cheaper) and after I’ve added daily chlorine.

Very interested to hear any experiences with the solar covers!!

I have a solar cover to extend my pool time in the Spring and in the Fall. I only use it in April and October when the temperatures are slowing getting in the 80's or so, I use it in conjunction with my pool heater to keep the warm water warmer during the evenings. The temperatures are generally cooler in the evenings and that is when your pool will cool off without the cover. Some people say it also helps slow your chlorine evaporation.