how to clean a pool filter pentair

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

A pool filter is an essential component of any swimming pool system. It helps to remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the water, ensuring that it stays clean and clear. However, over time, the filter can become clogged with debris, reducing its efficiency and potentially causing damage to the pool system. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to clean a pool filter Pentair to keep your swimming pool clean and healthy.

Understanding Your Pentair Pool Filter

Before you start, it's important to know the type of pool filter you have. Pentair produces several types of pool filters, including sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters.

Sand filters use sand or another type of media to filter out contaminants from the water. Cartridge filters use a pleated cartridge to do the same. DE filters use a powder made from fossilized remains of diatoms, which are microscopic algae, as the filter media. Knowing the type of filter you have will help you choose the right cleaning method.

Cleaning a Sand Filter

Sand filters are the most common type of pool filter in use today. They are effective at filtering out large particles, but they do require periodic cleaning to maintain their efficiency. Here's how to clean a Pentair sand filter:

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump and relieve the pressure in the filter by venting the air release valve.

Step 2: Remove the filter valve or multiport valve using a wrench or pliers.

Step 3: Remove the sand from the tank using a scoop or your hands.

Step 4: Use a garden hose to rinse the sand thoroughly and get rid of any debris or dirt that has built up in the sand bed.

Step 5: Reinstall the cleaned sand back into the filter tank.

Step 6: Reattach the filter valve or multiport valve and tighten it securely.

Step 7: Turn on the pool pump and check for any leaks.

Cleaning a Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters typically require less maintenance than sand filters, but they still need to be cleaned periodically to ensure that they are working efficiently. Here are the steps for cleaning a Pentair cartridge filter:

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump.

Step 2: Remove the cartridge from the filter housing.

Step 3: Rinse the cartridge thoroughly using a garden hose to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 4: Apply a filter cleaner to dissolve the buildup of oils, dirt and other contaminants on the cartridge.

Step 5: Soak the cartridge in the solution of filter cleaner for the recommended time.

Step 6: Rinse the cartridge thoroughly using a garden hose, taking care to remove all traces of the filter cleaner.

Step 7: Reinstall the cleaned cartridge back into the filter housing.

Step 8: Turn on the pool pump and check for any leaks.

Cleaning a DE Filter

DE filters are the most effective type of pool filter, trapping even the smallest particles. However, they require the most maintenance of any filter type. Here's how to clean a Pentair DE filter:

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump.

Step 2: Remove the filter grids or elements from the filter housing.

Step 3: Rinse the elements thoroughly using a garden hose to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 4: Soak the elements in a mixture of water and filter cleaner, taking care to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 5: Rinse the elements thoroughly using a garden hose, taking care to remove all traces of the filter cleaner.

Step 6: Reinstall the cleaned elements back into the filter housing.

Step 7: Add fresh DE powder to the filter tank, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 8: Turn on the pool pump and check for any leaks.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Pentair pool filter will help to ensure that your pool remains clean and healthy. It's important to clean your filter regularly, following the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that you do not damage your filter or reduce its efficiency. With these tips, you can keep your pool filter in top condition, allowing you to enjoy your clean and healthy pool.