This one sounds simple. And yes, actually, it is!

Pool filtration removes dirt and helps your pool water stay sparkling and clear. A good filtration system is essential, especially when you think of the debris that fall into your pool, is blown into it by the wind, or gets carried in by bathers.

OK, here it is in practice. Your pool has a circulation pump and a filter. The pump draws water from the pool and circulates it through the filter, before returning it to the pool again. The pump will also power your suction or pressure side cleaner.

The circulation of the pool water through the filter basket will take out leaves and other larger items. The filter will remove dirt and debris that is in suspension, but anything that has settled to the bottom of your pool or become attached to the sides will have to be vacuumed or brushed off.

Adding a clarifier to the pool water will help the filter keep your pool water even cleaner by encouraging the finest particles to clump together so that they are more easily filtered out.

The most common form of filter are sand filters, and cartridge filters, which are simple to maintain and are becoming more popular.

Under normal conditions, the pool pump, and therefore filter, should be run between 8 and 12 hours a day. The pump will normally be on a timer so that regular filtration is maintained.