how to clean my pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Clean My Pool Filter: A Comprehensive Guide

Owning a swimming pool comes with the responsibility of maintaining it. One of the most essential aspects of maintenance is cleaning the pool filter. A dirty filter can result in murky water, ineffective filtration, and dirty pool equipment. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive approach to cleaning your pool filter.

Subsection 1: Knowing Your Pool Filter

Before cleaning your pool filter, it is crucial to understand what type of pool filter you have. The most common types of pool filters are sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters.

- Sand filters: These filters use sand as their primary filtration medium. They are easy to maintain and require occasional backwashing to clean.

- Cartridge filters: These filters use a cartridge to trap debris. They are more efficient than sand filters as they can capture smaller particles.

- DE filters: These filters use a powder known as diatomaceous earth to filter out debris. They provide the highest level of filtration, but require more maintenance.

Subsection 2: When to Clean Your Pool Filter

The frequency at which you clean your pool filter depends on how frequently you use your pool and the type of pool filter you have. On average, it is recommended to clean your pool filter at least once per month during the swimming season.

However, if you notice a decrease in water flow, cloudy water, or visible debris within the pool, it is likely time to clean your pool filter.

Subsection 3: Cleaning a Sand Filter

A sand filter requires backwashing to clean it. This process involves reversing the flow of water through the filter and directing it out the waste line.

- Turn off the pool pump and turn the multiport valve to the backwash position.

- Turn on the pool pump and let it run for 2-3 minutes or until the water in the sight glass is clear.

- Turn off the pump and switch the multiport valve to the rinse position.

- Turn on the pump and let it run for 1 minute.

- Turn off the pump and turn the multiport valve back to the filter position.

Subsection 4: Cleaning a Cartridge Filter

A cartridge filter requires manual cleaning using a water hose and a cleaning solution. Here are the steps to cleaning a cartridge filter:

- Turn off the pool pump and remove the cartridge from the filter.

- Use a water hose to wash off any debris or dirt from the cartridge.

- Soak the cartridge in a cleaning solution according to the manufacturer's instructions.

- Rinse the cartridge with a water hose to remove the cleaning solution.

- Reinstall the cartridge back into the filter.

Subsection 5: Cleaning a DE Filter

Cleaning a DE filter requires taking the filter apart and manually hosing off the grids. Here are the steps to cleaning a DE filter:

- Turn off the pool pump and release the pressure in the filter by opening the air relief valve.

- Remove the filter lid and remove the filter grids.

- Hose off the grids with a water hose until they are clean.

- Reassemble the filter and add new DE powder according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Subsection 6: Final Thoughts

Cleaning your pool filter is an essential part of pool maintenance. By following the above steps, you can keep your pool filter clean and ensure that your pool is filtered efficiently, keeping it crystal clear and enjoyable all summer long.