Caring for your pool is more than just adding maintenance products. You must know some basic information about the circulation and filtration system and their roles in pool care before sanitization can be discussed.

The Role of the Pump

The heart of the circulation system is the pump. It moves water from the pool and sends it through the filter for removal of any dust, dirt, and debris prior to sending it back to the pool.

The primary question that most pool owners ask is

“How long should I run my pump?”

There are too many variables for one “covers all” answer. Piping size, pool size, swimmer load, and size of the actual pump all play a role in determining how long you should run your pump. For the proper “run time”, consult your Regal® dealer. They can determine, based upon all the variables, the proper amount of time required to keep your pool clear and clean.


The Filtration System

The job of the filtration system is to remove any undissolved dirt and debris from the pool water. Both the skimmer basket and the hair and lint baskets within the pump play a role in the filtering of the pool water. The primary element of the system we will discuss here is the filter itself.

Consult your Regal® dealer for assistance in understanding the role that the skimmer and pump basket play in keeping your pool clean. Always consult your owner’s manual for specifics related to the type of filter you have.

What is Filtration?

Watch the answer!

Filter Types


  1. Sand
  2. Cartridge
  3. Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

If you don’t know your filter type, your Regal® dealer can assist you in determining which filter you have. The following pages describe these three different types of filters.

Sand Filters

Dirt is removed from a sand filter by “backwashing” or reversing the water flow. The filter should be backwashed when the pressure increases 7-10 lbs. over the normal operating pressure. (This is the pressure indicated on the pressure gauge when the filter is completely clean.)

Sand filters are more efficient when they are slightly dirty; consequently, they should only be backwashed when required by the increase in pressure.

Sand filters should be cleaned at least every season with Regal® Filter Cleaner and Degreaser. Consult your Regal® dealer for the frequency requirements for changing the sand.

Cartridge Filters

Dirt needs to be removed from a cartridge filter when the pressure gauge indicates an increase of 7-10 lbs. over normal operation pressure. Remove the cartridge(s) from the filter, and hose off all loose dirt and debris. Then soak the element(s) in Regal® Filter Cleaner and Degreaser for at least 12 hours. This will remove all oils and greases imbedded in the filter element. After soaking, remove the cartridge(s) and rinse thoroughly with fresh water.


Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters

Like sand, the DE filter is cleaned by backwashing the filter when pressure increases 7-10 lbs. However, once the filter has been backwashed, new DE must be added to coat the grids in the filter. This is accomplished by pouring DE through the skimmer. Your Regal® dealer can tell you how much DE is required to “recharge” your filter.

To cut oils and other natural oil build-up, DE filter grids should be cleaned at least once every season using Regal® Filter Cleaner and Degreaser.

Also, at least once a year, the entire DE filter should be disassembled and cleaned thoroughly as well as inspected for tears or rips in the grids.
