what do you clean a pool filter with

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

What Do You Clean a Pool Filter With?

Maintaining a clean pool is essential for ensuring sanitary swimming conditions. Pool filters play a key role in keeping your pool water clean, but filters can get clogged and dirty over time. So what do you clean a pool filter with? There are several methods and cleaning solutions that can be used for different types of pool filters.

1. Understanding Different Types of Pool Filters

Before delving into how to clean pool filters, you need to understand the different types of pool filters available. There are three primary types of pool filters: sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters.

- Sand filters: These are the most common type of pool filter. They use sand as the filter medium to trap dirt and debris. Sand filters require backwashing to clean out the dirt and debris that has accumulated.

- Cartridge filters: Cartridge filters use a replaceable cartridge to trap dirt and debris. They need to be removed and cleaned periodically.

- Diatomaceous Earth filters: DE filters use a fine powder to filter out dirt and debris. They need to be backwashed and recharged with more DE powder.

2. Cleaning a Sand Filter

To clean a sand filter, you need to first turn off the pool pump. Then, you need to backwash the filter. This can be done by turning the multiport valve to the backwash position and turning the pump back on. The water will flow through the filter backwards, flushing out dirt and debris. Once the water runs clear, you can turn off the pump and return the valve to its original position.

3. Cleaning a Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters need to be removed and cleaned periodically. To clean a cartridge filter, you can follow these steps:

- Turn off the pool pump and remove the filter from its housing.

- Use a hose to spray the cartridge and remove any loose debris.

- Soak the filter in a cleaning solution, such as muriatic acid or a specialized filter cleaner.

- Rinse the filter thoroughly with a hose.

- Reinstall the filter in its housing and turn the pump back on.

4. Cleaning a DE Filter

DE filters require backwashing and recharging with DE powder. To clean a DE filter, you can follow these steps:

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

- Turn the pump back on and let it run for a few minutes to flush out the old DE powder.

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

- Recharge the filter with a new layer of DE powder.

- Turn the pump back on and allow it to run for a few minutes to disperse the new DE powder.

5. Using a Filter Cleaning Solution

In addition to backwashing and rinsing, some pool filters may benefit from a specialized cleaning solution. These solutions can dissolve oils and other buildup in the filter for a deeper clean. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning solution carefully and rinse the filter thoroughly before reinstalling it.

In conclusion, maintaining a clean pool filter is essential for keeping your pool water clean and healthy. By understanding the different types of pool filters and how to clean them, you can ensure that your pool stays sparkling all summer long. Whether you're using a sand filter, cartridge filter, or DE filter, there are methods and solutions available to help keep your filter running smoothly.