how to wash pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Wash Pool Filter: Keep Your Pool Clean and Clear All Season

Keeping your pool clean and clear is a priority for any pool owner, and a clean and effective pool filter plays a big role in maintaining pool water quality. Over time, pool filters can become clogged with dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can impede filtration and even damage your pool pump. That’s why it’s essential to know how to clean your pool filter properly, to keep your pool water crystal clear and sparkling all season long. Here’s how to wash pool filter, step by step:

1. Know When It’s Time to Clean Your Pool Filter

The first step in washing your pool filter is knowing when to do it. If you notice that your pool water is cloudy, or if the water pressure in your pool pump is significantly reduced, it’s likely that your pool filter needs cleaning. It’s a good idea to check your pool filter every two weeks to see if it needs cleaning, especially during heavy pool usage periods.

2. Turn Your Pool Pump Off

Before you start washing your pool filter, be sure to turn off your pool pump. Cleaning your pool filter while the pump is running can cause serious injury and damage to your pool system. Always turn off the power to your pool pump before starting any pool maintenance work.

3. Remove the Filter

After you’ve turned off your pool pump, it’s time to remove the pool filter from your pool pump. There are three primary types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and DE. The cleaning process differs slightly for each type of filter, but the first step is the same: removing the filter from your pool pump. Follow your filter manufacturer’s instructions for removing your specific type of filter.

4. Clean the Filter

After you’ve removed the filter from your pool pump, it’s time to clean it. The cleaning process will vary depending on the type of filter you have:

- Sand Filter: To clean a sand filter, backwash the filter by setting your pool pump to “backwash” mode. This will reverse the water flow through the sand filter, flushing out any dirt and debris caught in the sand. After backwashing, set your pool pump to “rinse” mode, then run the pump for a few minutes to clear out any remaining debris.

- Cartridge Filter: To clean a cartridge filter, use a hose to spray down the filter element, making sure to remove any visible dirt and debris. For a deeper cleaning, soak the filter element in a cleaning solution, then rinse thoroughly with a hose. Allow the filter to dry completely before reinstalling it.

- DE Filter: To clean a DE filter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing and cleaning the filter grids. Generally, this involves removing the filter elements, hosing them down to remove debris, then soaking and scrubbing them with a cleaning solution. Rinse the filter grids thoroughly, then reassemble the filter and reinstall it in your pool pump.

5. Reinstall the Filter

After you’ve cleaned your pool filter, it’s time to reinstall it. Follow your filter manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. Once your filter is reinstalled, turn your pool pump back on, and your pool should be sparkling clean and clear.

Keeping Your Pool Filter Clean and Maintained

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your pool filter is essential to ensure that your pool water stays clean and clear. In addition to regular cleaning, you should also keep an eye on the pressure gauge on your pool pump. If the pressure rises above the recommended level for your filter, it’s time to clean or replace the filter element.

By following these steps, you can keep your pool filter clean and maintain high water quality, providing you and your family with a safe and enjoyable swimming experience all season long.