how to unclog pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

There are few things that can be more of a buzzkill than a clogged pool filter. No one wants to dive into a murky pool on a hot summer day. So, what can you do? Well, there are a few methods to unclog your pool filter quickly and easily. Here are some steps that you can take to get it back up and running.

Identify the Issue

The first thing you'll need to do is to identify what's causing your pool filter to clog. There are a few things that can contribute to this problem, including:

- Too much debris in the pool

- A dirty filter

- A damaged or incorrectly installed filter

Once you know what's causing the clog, you'll be able to take steps to fix it.

Regular Maintenance

One of the easiest ways to avoid a clogged pool filter is by performing regular maintenance. Ideally, you should be checking and cleaning your filter every week during the swimming season. Here's what you need to do:

1. Turn off the pool pump.

2. Take out the filter cartridge or backwash the sand or diatomaceous earth (DE) filter.

3. Rinse the filter thoroughly with a garden hose. Make sure you remove any debris or buildup.

4. Reinstall the filter or cartridge and turn on the pool pump.

It's best to perform pool filter maintenance during the cooler hours of the day when the sun isn't beating down on you.

Cleaning the Pool

Another way to avoid a clogged pool filter is by keeping your pool clean. Skim the pool regularly, remove any debris from the surface, and brush the walls and floor to remove any dirt and grime. The less debris in the pool, the cleaner the water, and the less the filter will need to work.

Backwashing the Sand Filter

If your pool has a sand filter, backwashing it will remove any trapped debris and free up the filter. Here are the steps:

1. Turn off the pool pump.

2. Put the multiport valve into the backwash position.

3. Turn on the pool pump.

4. Let the water run for a few minutes, or until the water runs clear through the waste line.

5. Turn off the pool pump.

6. Set the multiport valve back to the filter position.

7. Turn on the pool pump.

Backwash the sand filter every four to six weeks or when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above the starting pressure.

Cleaning the Cartridge Filter

A cartridge filter should be cleaned a few times a season, depending on pool usage. Here are the steps:

1. Turn off the pool pump.

2. Remove the filter cartridge.

3. Rinse the cartridge with a garden hose, making sure to remove any dirt or debris.

4. Soak the cartridge in a filter cleaning solution for several hours, following the instructions on the bottle.

5. Rinse the cartridge again with a garden hose.

6. Reinstall the cartridge and turn on the pool pump.

Replacing the Filter

If none of these methods work, it's possible that your pool filter may be damaged or worn out. It's best to replace the filter rather than try to repair it.

In conclusion, a clogged pool filter can be a real hassle, but it's an easy fix with the right steps. Regular maintenance, keeping the pool clean, backwashing the sand filter, cleaning the cartridge filter, and replacing the filter are all ways to make sure your pool filter is unclogged and ready to go. With your filter up and running again, you can go ahead and plan your next pool party!