CPO Operation and Maintenance 2

Question 1

A sand filter's pressure gauge reads 10 PSI above its clean starting pressure. What does this indicate and what action is required?

Accepted Answer

Backwash the filter to remove accumulated debris

Answer

A pressure rise of 8–10 PSI above the initial clean pressure indicates the filter media is dirty and backwashing is required to restore proper flow.

Question 2

What is the maximum turnover rate most health codes require for a standard public swimming pool?

Accepted Answer

Every 6 hours

Answer

Most jurisdictions require a pool's entire water volume to pass through the filtration system at least once every 6 hours.

Question 3

Which filter type provides the finest particle filtration, capable of removing particles as small as 2–5 microns?

Accepted Answer

Diatomaceous earth (DE) filter

Answer

Diatomaceous earth filters use fossilized diatom skeletons as the filter medium, allowing filtration down to 2–5 microns — the finest of common pool filter types.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of the pump strainer basket in a pool circulation system?

Accepted Answer

To catch hair, leaves, and debris before they reach the pump impeller

Answer

The pump strainer basket protects the pump impeller from damage by capturing large debris on the suction side of the pump.

Question 5

During backwashing of a sand filter, in which direction does water flow through the filter bed?

Accepted Answer

Upward through the filter bed to lift and agitate the sand

Answer

Backwashing reverses the water flow upward through the sand, expanding and agitating the bed to flush trapped dirt out to the waste line.

CPO (Certified Pool Operator Exam) Practice Test

CPO (Certified Pool Operator Exam) Practice Test

CPO Operation and Maintenance 2