Maintaining a pristine swimming pool is an essential part of pool ownership in the UK, especially for those fortunate enough to have a Desjoyaux pool in their garden. With our unpredictable British weather, ensuring your filtration system works properly year-round becomes even more crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your Desjoyaux pool's filtration system in tip-top condition, regardless of whether you're in the sunny south or the brisker north of the country.
Understanding your desjoyaux filtration system
Before diving into maintenance procedures, it's vital to grasp how your Desjoyaux filtration system actually works. These innovative systems are renowned in the swimming pool industry for their efficiency and ease of use, making them particularly popular among British homeowners who want to maximise their swimming season without excessive maintenance hassle.
The unique bag filtration technology
At the heart of your Desjoyaux pool lies its distinctive bag filtration technology. Think of it as a sophisticated tea strainer for your pool. Unlike traditional sand or cartridge filters common in other pool systems, Desjoyaux employs a textile filter bag that efficiently captures debris, algae, and other contaminants as water passes through. This patented filtration method not only delivers exceptional water clarity but also significantly reduces running costs—something every British pool owner can appreciate during our energy price fluctuations.
Key components and how they work together
Your Desjoyaux filtration system consists of several critical components working in harmony. The pre-filter basket serves as the first line of defence, capturing larger debris before it reaches the filter bag. The filter bag itself is where the magic happens, trapping smaller particles down to microscopic levels. The integrated pump circulates water through the system, while the control panel allows you to manage filtration cycles. This surface-mounted design eliminates the need for a separate plant room, saving valuable garden space and simplifying the maintenance process—a brilliant advantage when compared to traditional pool systems available in the UK market.
Weekly maintenance tasks for crystal clear water
Consistency is the secret to effortless pool maintenance. By establishing a weekly routine, you can prevent most common issues before they develop into more significant problems, especially during our peak swimming months from May to September.
Filter bag inspection and cleaning procedure
The filter bag requires regular attention to function optimally. Begin by switching off your filtration system completely. Remove the pre-filter basket and clear any debris that has accumulated. Next, access the filter bag by opening the filtration unit housing. Carefully extract the bag, noting how it's positioned for reinstallation later. Take the filter bag to an appropriate cleaning area and thoroughly rinse it with a garden hose, working from the outside inward to dislodge trapped contaminants. Inspect the bag for any signs of damage or excessive wear. A well-maintained filter bag should last several months, but keep replacements on hand for when wear becomes apparent. Once clean, reinstall the bag and basket, then restart your system.
Water quality checks and adjustments
Maintaining proper water chemistry is fundamental to your filtration system's effectiveness. Use a reliable testing kit to check your pool water weekly. The ideal pH level for a Desjoyaux pool should be maintained between 6.8 and 7.2—slightly lower than some other pool types. Chlorine levels require monitoring too, with a recommended minimum of 2.5-3g per cubic metre. If you notice the water becoming cloudy or developing a green tinge, you may need to adjust the pH, perform a shock chlorination treatment, and run your filtration system continuously until clarity returns. Proper chemical balance prevents strain on your filtration system and ensures swimmer comfort, preventing the eye and skin irritation that can occur with improperly balanced pool water.
Monthly and seasonal maintenance schedule
Beyond your weekly routine, certain tasks should be performed monthly or seasonally to keep your Desjoyaux filtration system running at peak efficiency throughout our varied British climate conditions.
Deep cleaning your filter components
Once a month, give your filter components a more thorough cleaning than the weekly rinse. This involves soaking the filter bag in a mild detergent solution to break down oils and finer particles that simple rinsing might miss. Ensure you rinse the bag thoroughly afterward to remove all detergent residue before reinstallation. This is also the time to inspect the pump basket and impeller for any obstructions. Clean the housing unit itself, checking for any calcium buildup or scaling that might impact performance. This deep cleaning helps maintain optimal water flow through your system and extends the life of your components, saving money on premature replacements.
Preparing your system for different weather conditions
Our British weather demands adaptability from your pool maintenance routine. During summer months when pool usage increases, you might need to clean your filter bag more frequently, perhaps twice weekly during heatwaves when pools see heavy use. As autumn approaches, adjust your filtration schedule to compensate for falling leaves and debris. For winter preparation, consider investing in a quality pool cover that meets NFP90-308 safety standards. Polycarbonate slat covers are particularly effective, capable of increasing water temperature by 5-8°C during spring and summer months while providing protection during winter. If you plan to use your pool year-round with a heat pump, maintain a consistent filtration schedule even in winter, though you can reduce daily running hours during periods of lower usage.
Troubleshooting common filtration issues
Even with diligent maintenance, you might occasionally encounter issues with your Desjoyaux filtration system. Knowing how to identify and resolve these problems quickly will help maintain water quality and prevent damage to your system.
Signs your filter bags need replacement
Filter bags are not eternal components and will eventually require replacement regardless of how well you maintain them. Watch for telltale signs including visible tears or holes in the fabric, decreased water clarity despite proper chemical balance, or a noticeable reduction in water flow through your system. Another indicator is when cleaning no longer restores the bag to a reasonably clean appearance. Most Desjoyaux filter bags should last between 6-12 months depending on usage patterns, water conditions, and maintenance frequency. When replacement becomes necessary, always use genuine Desjoyaux filter bags designed specifically for your model to ensure proper filtration performance and system compatibility.
Resolving reduced water flow problems
If you notice decreased water circulation or poor skimming action at the surface, your system might be experiencing flow issues. Begin by checking the obvious—ensure the filter bag isn't clogged and the pre-filter basket is clear of debris. Examine the pump impeller for any obstructions that might impede its rotation. Check that all valves are fully open and that the water level in your pool is sufficient to allow proper skimmer function. If these basic checks don't resolve the issue, inspect the pump itself for any unusual noises or overheating that might indicate mechanical problems. Sometimes, air leaks in the system can cause reduced flow; check all connections and seals for integrity. Persistent flow problems might require professional assistance from your local Desjoyaux representative, who can provide expert diagnosis and repairs specific to your system model.
Maintaining optimal water chemistry for your desjoyaux pool
Proper maintenance of your Desjoyaux pool's filtration system is vital for keeping your water sparkling clear and ensuring your swimming experience remains top-notch throughout the seasons. As British pool owners, we face unique challenges with our changeable weather, but with a structured maintenance routine, you can enjoy pristine pool water year-round whilst reducing costs and extending the life of your investment.
Desjoyaux pools are renowned for their innovative surface-mounted filtration units that eliminate the need for a plant room. This patented system not only simplifies maintenance but also significantly reduces running costs compared to traditional pool setups. The heart of this system is the filter bag – think of it as a giant tea bag for your pool that traps debris, algae and other unwanted particles.
Balancing pH Levels and Chlorine for British Weather
The ever-changing British climate presents unique challenges for pool chemistry. During the maintenance of your Desjoyaux pool, maintaining proper chemical balance is absolutely crucial. The ideal pH level should be kept between 6.8 and 7.2, which creates the perfect environment for chlorine to work effectively whilst being gentle on swimmers' skin and eyes.
Chlorine levels need consistent monitoring, with a recommended minimum of 2.5-3g/m³. These levels may need adjustment based on weather conditions – during hot spells or after heavy rainfall, you might need to test more frequently. If you detect a strong chlorine smell, ironically, this often indicates too little chlorine rather than too much, requiring a shock treatment to restore proper levels.
Your weekly maintenance routine should include:
- Testing pH and chlorine levels at least twice weekly during swimming season
- Adjusting chemical levels using Desjoyaux's specially formulated pH balancers
- Inspecting the pre-filter basket and removing any debris
- Checking the filter bag for tears or excessive build-up
- Rinsing the filter bag with a garden hose when necessary
Algae prevention strategies for year-round water clarity
Algae can be a persistent nuisance in British pools, particularly during warmer months or periods of variable weather. Prevention is far easier than cure when it comes to algae management. A comprehensive strategy combines proper filtration, regular chemical treatment, and physical maintenance.
Your Desjoyaux filtration system plays a critical role in algae prevention. Ensure it runs for sufficient hours daily – typically 8-12 hours during swimming season and 4-6 hours in cooler months. For optimal results, follow these algae prevention practices:
- Use Desjoyaux algaecides proactively, especially during warm spells
- Brush pool walls weekly to disrupt algae before it can establish
- Maintain proper water circulation throughout the pool
- Consider using a quality pool cover when the pool isn't in use to reduce contamination and heat loss
- Perform a deep clean of your filter bags monthly by soaking in a mild detergent solution
If you do spot cloudy water or early signs of algae growth, swift action is required. Adjust the pH to the ideal range, perform a shock chlorination treatment, and run your filtration system continuously until the water clears. This approach typically resolves most water clarity issues within 24-48 hours.
For more efficient heating and further algae prevention, many British Desjoyaux pool owners opt for polycarbonate slatted covers, which can increase water temperature by 5-8°C during spring and summer while meeting NFP90-308 safety standards. When paired with an air-source heat pump (which can heat your pool from as little as £1.65 per day), you'll enjoy extended swimming seasons with crystal-clear water.
By following this comprehensive maintenance schedule tailored specifically for Desjoyaux pool systems in British conditions, you'll maximise your enjoyment while minimising both maintenance effort and costs.