how to.clean pool filter

How to Clean Pool Filter

Having a clean pool is essential for a hygienic and enjoyable swimming experience. Keeping your pool filter clean is crucial in maintaining the pool’s cleanliness. A dirty filter can lead to poor water circulation and dirty water, hence the need to clean the pool filter regularly. Here is a guide on how to effectively clean your pool filter.

1. Type of Pool Filter

There are three main types of pool filters: sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters. Each type of filter requires a different cleaning method. It is important to identify the type of filter you have before cleaning it. The manufacturer’s manual should provide you with sufficient information on identifying the type of filter installed.

2. Gather Required Cleaning Tools

Before beginning the cleaning process, gather all the required tools. These include gloves, a garden hose, a bucket, a filter cleaning solution, and a wrench. A wrench may be necessary if your filter requires disassembly.

3. Turn off the Pool Pump

Before beginning the cleaning process, turn off the pool pump. This action ensures the filter is not under high pressure, which can be dangerous when opening it.

4. Disassemble the Filter

For sand filters, the backwash valve is opened to reverse the flow of water, and the filter is backwashed. DE filters and cartridge filters require a different approach. Diatomaceous earth filters require disassembly to remove the filter grids for cleaning, while cartridge filters only require removal of the cartridge.

5. Cleaning the Filter

Once disassembled, the filter is cleaned depending on the filter type. For sand filters, pour a sand filter cleaning solution into the skimmer and turn on the pool pump for at least 15 minutes. This solution helps to clean the sand filter by breaking up the debris. Backwash the sand filter thoroughly after this. For DE filters, the filter grids are hosed down thoroughly before soaking in a filter cleaning solution overnight. For cartridge filters, the cartridge is removed and hosed down thoroughly before soaking in a filter cleaning solution overnight.

6. Rinse and Reassemble

After soaking, rinse the components of the pool filter thoroughly with a garden hose. After rinsing, reassemble the filter parts and tighten any nuts and bolts that were removed. Ensure the pool filter components are secure and put everything back together.

7. Turn on the Pool Pump

Once everything is back in place, turn on the pool pump and run it for at least 15 minutes to ensure the pool filter is functioning properly. Check the pressure gauge on the pump regularly. A high-pressure reading signals the need for backwashing or cleaning the pool filter again.

In conclusion, cleaning your pool filter regularly is essential in keeping your pool hygienic and safe for swimming. With the right tools and cleaning solution, cleaning your pool filter can be a simple and stress-free process. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pool filter type and take precautions to remain safe during the cleaning process.