how to drain pool filter tank

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

How to Drain Your Pool Filter Tank: Get Your Pool Back to Crystal Clear Water

If you own a backyard swimming pool, it’s important to maintain it regularly to ensure that the water is clean, safe and healthy for swimming. One of the most important aspects of pool maintenance is the pool filter. The filter’s job is to remove impurities and debris from the pool water to ensure that it’s sparkling clean. However, over time, the filter tank can fill with debris, dirt, and other contaminants that make it less effective. That’s why it’s essential to know how to drain your pool filter tank to keep your pool water crystal clear and free of impurities.

1. Why You Need to Drain Your Pool Filter Tank

Draining your pool filter tank is a necessary step in maintaining your pool water. The filter tank is where all the debris and contaminants caught in the filter cartridges or sand collect. Over time, this debris can clog the filter, reducing its effectiveness and compromising the quality of the pool water. Draining the tank is necessary to flush out the debris and contaminants and ensure that your filter continues to work efficiently.

2. When to Drain Your Pool Filter Tank

It’s recommended that you drain your pool filter tank at least once every six months, or more often if you notice that the water flow has become restricted, or if you’ve backwashed the filter excessively. You may also need to drain the tank if you’ve experienced heavy rainfall or a high volume of leaves and debris in the pool.

3. How to Drain Your Pool Filter Tank

The process of draining the pool filter tank may vary depending on the type of filter you have. Here are the steps to follow for three common types of pool filters:

3.1 Cartridge Filter

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump and close the valves.

Step 2: Remove the filter cartridges from their housing.

Step 3: Use a garden hose to flush out any debris stuck inside the housing.

Step 4: Reinstall the cartridges, turn on the pool pump, and open the valves.

Step 5: Run the pump for a few minutes to ensure the water is flowing correctly.

3.2 Sand Filter

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump and close the valves.

Step 2: Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the filter, and attach a garden hose.

Step 3: Open the valve and let the water drain out of the filter tank.

Step 4: Once the tank is empty, close the valve and remove the hose.

Step 5: Turn on the pool pump, run it for a few minutes to ensure the water is flowing correctly.

3.3 DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filter

Step 1: Turn off the pool pump and close the valves.

Step 2: Remove the drain plug at the bottom of the filter tank.

Step 3: Attach a hose to the drain plug and let the water flow out of the tank.

Step 4: Once the tank is empty, remove the hose and reinstall the drain plug.

Step 5: Turn on the pool pump, run it for a few minutes to ensure the water is flowing correctly.

4. Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Pool Filter

To ensure that your pool filter continues to work efficiently, here are some additional tips to follow:

- Backwash your filter according to the manufacturer's instructions to remove debris and contaminants.

- Clean the filter cartridges or replace them every six months or more often, if needed.

- Inspect the filter tank regularly for cracks, leaks or damage and replace damaged parts.

- Test your pool water regularly for pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels and adjust them as needed.

In conclusion, knowing how to drain your pool filter tank is an essential step in maintaining your pool water. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pool stays crystal clear, healthy, and ready for swimming fun.