how do you clean an above ground pool filter

How Do You Clean an Above Ground Pool Filter?

Summer is a wonderful time of year for swimming and relaxation, but it requires maintenance and cleaning upkeep. One of the most significant maintenance steps you can take for your above ground pool is cleaning the filter. A clean filter ensures optimal water circulation, resulting in crystal clear water for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we will break down the steps you need to follow to clean an above ground pool filter.

1. Why Cleaning the Filter is Important

The filter is one of the most crucial components of your above ground pool. Its primary job is to filter out debris and contaminants, such as leaves, dirt, insects, and bacteria from your pool water. Over time, the filter accumulates these impurities and becomes less efficient. This can cause poor water circulation, leading to cloudy and dirty water. Cleaning your pool filter ensures it is working efficiently and provides you with a clean, swim-ready pool.

2. How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Filter?

The frequency of cleaning your pool filter depends on several factors, including the size of your pool, filter type, and the amount of use it receives. Generally, it's advisable to clean your pool filter every month. However, suppose you notice a drop in water circulation, or the water is turning cloudy before the scheduled cleaning time. In that case, you should clean it immediately.

3. Types of Filter for Above Ground Pool

There are three main types of pool filters for above ground pools: sand filters, cartridge filters, and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters. Each type has its own process of cleaning, and it's important to know your filter type before cleaning it.

- Sand filters: These filters remove debris by trapping them in sand particles. When the pressure gauge increases, indicating that the filter is dirty, you need to backwash it. Backwashing is the process where you reverse the water flow, flushing out waste and dirt from the sand.

- Cartridge filters: These filters work by trapping debris in a removable cartridge. Over time, the cartridge becomes clogged with debris and dirt, which affects its performance. To clean, remove the cartridge and rinse it with a hose until clean.

- DE filters: These filters remove debris by coating a mesh grid with a diatomaceous earth powder. To clean this filter, you need to backwash it, then remove and rinse the grid in acid and water.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Pool Filter

Cleaning the pool filter is not a difficult task, but it requires attention to detail. To clean your above ground pool filter, follow these steps:

- Turn off the pool pump: Before you start the cleaning process, turn off the pool pump to avoid any accidents.

- Backwash (for sand and DE filters): Backwashing is the process of removing debris from the filter by reversing the water flow. For sand and DE filters, backwash the filter with clean water until the water runs clear.

- Remove filter cartridge (for cartridge filters): If you have a cartridge filter, remove the cartridge and rinse it with a garden hose until clean.

- Clean the filter with chemical cleaner: Using a chemical cleaner is essential in removing oil and grease from the filter. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the chemical cleaner.

- Soak the filter in water: Once you have cleaned the filter with a chemical cleaner, soak it in a large bucket filled with water. This will ensure that all the chemicals are removed from the filter.

- Reassemble the pool filter: Reassemble the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring it's securely in place.

- Turn on the pool pump: Once the filter is reassembled, turn on the pool pump to circulate the water. Check the pressure gauge to ensure it's at the right level.

5. Conclusion

Cleaning your above ground pool filter is essential to ensure your pool stays clean and healthy. A properly functioning pool filter is the key to a crystal clear, swim-ready pool. If you're not confident in cleaning the filter yourself, there are professionals available to take care of it for you. In summary, cleaning your pool filter regularly is an essential task that will save you time, money and guarantee a clean, enjoyable swimming experience.