how to clean a pleatco pool filter

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

Swimming pools are a great way to cool off during the hot summer months. The last thing you want is to have a dirty filter that is not properly cleaned as it could lead to unsanitary conditions in your pool. Pleatco pool filters provide an effective way of keeping your swimming pool free of debris and contaminants. However, like any other filter, it requires regular cleaning to maintain its optimum performance. Here’s a guide on how to clean your Pleatco pool filter.

Understanding Pleatco Pool Filters

Pleatco pool filters are designed to operate by trapping debris as the water passes through its filtering material, so only clean water returns to the swimming pool. Unlike some other filters, Pleatco filters have pleats or folds of filtering material that provide greater surface area, improving the filter's efficiency to trap more dirt, debris, and other contaminants. The filter cartridge may be made of polyurethane or polyester materials, among others.

Why You Need to Clean Your Pleatco Pool Filter

Like any other filter, your Pleatco pool filter will get dirty and clogged up over time, reducing your water's overall quality. A dirty filter system will create additional strain on the swimming pool pump, resulting in increased energy consumption and possibly even costly pump failure. Regular cleaning of the Pleatco filter ensures that it operates optimally and effectively for many years, extending the life of the filter cartridge.

Steps to Clean Pleatco Pool Filter

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean your Pleatco pool filter:

Step 1: Turn off the Swimming Pool Pump

Before you can begin working on your Pleatco pool filter, you must first turn off the swimming pool pump. This is essential to avoid any possible injuries.

Step 2: Remove the Filter Cartridge

Next, remove the filter cartridge from its housing. Gently pull out the cartridge from the filter housing.

Step 3: Rinse with a Garden hose

Use a regular garden hose to rinse off debris and particles from the filter cartridge. Hold the filter cartridge at a 45-degree angle and flush it thoroughly. Start by using a low-pressure setting on your garden hose to avoid damaging the filter media.

Step 4: Soak the Filter Cartridge in a Cleaning Solution

Once you've rinsed the filter cartridge, it's time to soak it in a cleaning solution. You can use a specially formulated filter cleaning solution or create your own using a mix of water and vinegar in a ratio of 8:1. Soak the filter for at least two hours, preferably twelve hours.

Step 5: Rinse the Filter with a garden hose

After soaking, remove the filter cartridge from the cleaning solution and rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose. Throughout rinsing, the water should run clear.

Step 6: Reassemble the Filter System

Once the filter cartridge is clean, put it back into the filtration system, ensuring that it fits snugly in the filter housing. Turn the pool pump back on to appropriate water flow.

How Often to Clean Pleatco Pool Filter

The frequency of cleaning a Pleatco pool filter depends on several factors, such as the pool size, frequency of use, weather conditions, and contaminants in the pool. Generally, it is best to clean the filter at least once a month. However, if you notice that the water flow has reduced, or your swimming pool water is turning cloudy or greenish, you might need to clean the filter more frequently.

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean and healthy swimming pool requires an effective filtration system. A Pleatco pool filter is an excellent choice of filtration system for pool owners. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning of the filter cartridge are essential to ensure it operates efficiently and effectively. By following the steps outlined above, you can confidently clean your Pleatco pool filter, extend its life, and maintain clean and safe water for your family and friends.