Notes from the deep end

Practical articles for pool owners on skimming, water testing and choosing the right equipment.

Clear filters

9 articles

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Pool Filter vs Sand: How to Choose Between Sand, Cartridge, and DE

Choose the right pool filter by weighing clarity, upkeep, water use, and debris load. Compare sand filter, cartridge, and DE options safely.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Does “Recirculate” Mean on a Pool Pump?

Recirculate means the pump moves pool water back to the pool without filtering it. It keeps water moving, but it will not remove debris or cloudiness.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

Why Is My Pool Pump So Loud?

A loud pool pump usually means restricted water flow, trapped air, vibration, or worn parts. Start with safe checks first, then call a pro if the noise persists.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Cloudy Pool Water Says About Filter Performance

Cloudy water can mean your pool filter is struggling, but it may also point to poor circulation, clogged baskets, or a system that needs service.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How a Pool Pump Works: The Pool Pump and Filter Cycle

A pool pump moves water through the skimmer, pump, and filter system, then returns it to the pool. That circulation supports cleaner, clearer water.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a Pentair Pool Filter Safely

Clean a Pentair pool filter by identifying the filter type, shutting off the pump, removing trapped debris, and following the owner’s manual for reassembly and restart.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Electricity Does a Pool Pump Use per Month?

A pool pump’s monthly electricity use depends on wattage, run time, and pump speed. Estimate it from the nameplate and your daily hours of operation.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Tell If Your Pool Filter Is Undersized

If your pool turns cloudy again soon after cleaning, pressure rises fast, and circulation stays weak, the filter may be too small for the pool’s real demand.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.