How to gauge a gauge

How do you gauge the quality of your gauge? Following “Fun with Filters” the common theme of questions surrounded the accuracy of the existing gauge. Let’s dive in and see if your gauge is working and, if not, how to replace it.

The easy answer is if you look at the gauge while the pump is running, but the gauge is reading 0psi or is too cloudy to read, then the gauge is obviously in need of replacement. However, just because the needle may be pointing somewhere other than 0psi does not guarantee that it is accurate. A quick way to determine if the reading is reflective of reality is to turn the pump off and check the filter pressure gauge again. Did it drop to 0psi? If so, then chances are the gauge is in working order and can be relied upon to determine your cartridge’s wash cycle. If it did not move at all, then it is in need of replacement. If it does go all the way to 0psi, but does move significantly, your gauge may be working inaccurately, but still should be replaced.

Replacing a faulty gauge is actually pretty simple. With the pump off, open the filter housing’s air release valve to relieve the pressure within the housing. Using a small pair of pliers or an appropriately sized wrench remove the existing gauge and clean out the threading on the filter housing. After applying Teflon tape (usually included with the gauge), gently start threading the new gauge back into the housing. Be careful not to grab the gauge face, use your finger tips to hold on to the base of the gauge. Then using the pliers or wrench, finish tightening until the gauge is secured snugly into the housing. You don’t want to hand tighten this because it is very easy to break the internal component of the gauge therefore putting you back to square one…but with a lighter wallet!!

Now that is a pool of information. However, there is an easier way to determine if your pool equipment is running at optimal levels and have your pool looking better than ever. Hire a certified pool professional to manage your pool’s cleaning cycle and service the equipment. Mention this article when you contact us to receive a free estimate.