how to clean inground pool filter

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

How to Clean Inground Pool Filter: Everything You Need to Know

Your inground pool filter is the backbone of a clean and well-maintained pool. However, as time passes, the filter accumulates dirt, debris, and other unwanted elements that can affect the overall cleanliness and sustainability of your pool. Cleaning your inground pool filter regularly is essential to ensure that your pool is always in top shape, and that it will last as long as possible. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to clean your inground pool filter effectively and efficiently.

Why is Cleaning Your Inground Pool Filter Important?

The pool filter is responsible for removing unwanted particles and impurities from the water that circulates throughout your pool's system. These impurities accumulate in the pool filter over time, reducing its efficiency and ultimately leading to higher operating costs. A dirty pool filter also increases the risk of algae growth, which can cause illness or infection. Regular cleaning of your inground pool filter ensures the longevity of your pool's system and helps to maintain crystal clear water quality.

How Often Should You Clean Your Inground Pool Filter?

The frequency of cleaning your inground pool filter mostly depends on the usage, environment, and water conditions of your pool. The general rule is to clean the pool filter once it reaches a pressure that is 8 - 10 PSI above the filter's clean pressure. Typically, this means cleaning the pool filter every three to six months, depending on the size of the pool and the filter itself. However, if there are frequent pool parties or extreme weather conditions, cleaning may need to be more frequent.

What Are The Different Types of Inground Pool Filters?

There are three types of inground pool filters, Sand, Cartridge, and Diatomaceous Earth (D.E). Each filter has a unique cleaning process, and it's crucial to know which type you have to avoid damage to your pool's filter.

Sand filters use silica sand to trap and remove impurities from the pool water, and they require backwashing regularly to flush out the trapped particles.

Cartridge filters use a paper-like cartridge to trap impurities, and they can be removed and cleaned manually.

Diatomaceous Earth filters have grids coated with D.E. powder, which is carefully applied to the filter as a coat to trap particles. These types of filters require disassembly for cleaning.

How To Clean Your Inground Pool Filter

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean your inground pool filter:

1. Turn off Your Pool's Pump: Before cleaning your inground pool filter, turn off your pool pump and disconnect any power sources to avoid potential injury.

2. Open Your Filter: For Sand filters, rotate the filter valve to the backwash setting, and let the pump run for two minutes. Then, turn off the pump and move the valve to the rinse position, turn the pump back on, and repeat for one minute. Finally, turn off the pump again and return the valve to the filter position.

For Cartridge filters, remove the cartridge from the filter housing enclosing it, and set aside.

For Diatomaceous Earth filters, turn off the pump and close the valves on the suction and discharge lines. Next, remove the filter's top, followed by the filter's internal parts.

3. Clean the Filter: For Sand filters, backwash the filter by sending it into reverse flow that will expel the dirt and debris. The clean water resulting from backwashing should run clear before you move back to the filter setting.

For Cartridge filters, use a high-pressure hose to remove dirt and debris from the cartridge.

For Diatomaceous Earth filters, apply D.E. filter cleaner to the grids to remove impurities, rinse with a hose, and reassemble once cleaned.

4. Reinstall Your Filter: Simply reverse the steps taken in the disassembly process for each filter.

5. Test Your Pool Water: Once the filter is back in place, run your pool pump for several hours to ensure that the water balance has been restored.

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean and healthy pool is vital, and cleaning your inground pool filter is one of the essential steps in achieving this goal. By following the steps outlined above, you'll be on your way to a cleaner, clearer, and healthier swimming pool. Never skip a cleaning session, and you'll avoid more costly repairs and water maintenance down the road. Remember that a well-maintained pool filter means a well-maintained pool, providing years of enjoyment and refreshing dips.