how to clean a above ground pool filter

How to Clean an Above Ground Pool Filter

Having an above ground swimming pool is a great way to beat the heat during the blistering summers. However, having a pool comes with a lot of maintenance responsibilities, such as cleaning the pool, vacuuming, brushing and most importantly, maintaining the filters. Filters play an essential role in keeping your pool water clean and clear, and a dirty filter can lead to multiple problems like cloudy water, algae growth, and even equipment failure. If you are a pool owner and are in need of guidance on how to clean an above ground pool filter, this article is just for you.

Why is it Important to Clean the Pool Filter?

In simple terms, a pool filter's prime function is to remove dirt, debris, and other impurities from your pool water. When the filter does its job, it collects all the dirt and debris, which can lead to a build-up of several contaminants, including algae, bacteria, and viruses. If left unchecked, this can cause health problems and equipment damage. Therefore, cleaning the filter regularly is imperative.

Tools and Materials Required

Before diving into the cleaning process, there are a few tools and materials that you would need to have on hand.

- Garden hose

- Spare filter cartridge (optional)

- Filter cleaner (optional)

- Empty bucket

- Skimmer net

How to Clean an Above Ground Pool Filter

Cleaning an above ground pool filter is not rocket science; anyone can do it with the right methods and tools. Here's a detailed step-by-step guide to help you clean your pool filter.

Step 1: Turn Off the Pool Pump

Safety first! Before beginning the cleaning process, ensure that the pool pump is turned off. You don't want to get electrocuted while cleaning.

Step 2: Remove the Filter

The second step is to remove the filter itself from the pool pump. Different filter models have different removal mechanisms, but most filters have a release valve or button that you can easily use to separate the filter from your equipment. Once you have mastered the method for your filter model, the process becomes much easier.

Step 3: Clean the Filter

Once the filter has been removed from the pump, it's time to clean it. Begin by using a skimmer net to remove all the big debris from the filter. Next, rinse the filter with a garden hose, keeping the nozzle at a 45-degree angle from the filter. This water pressure will force the debris to come out of the filter. Continuing this process until the water runs clear from the filter.

Step 4: Soak the Filter

After you have rinsed the filter, it's time to get it some more thorough cleaning. Fill up an empty bucket with enough water to submerge the filter entirely. Add a filter cleaner solution to the water as per the instructions on the cleaning solution bottle. Dip the filter into the solution and let it soak for 24-48 hours. This solution will break down the embedded dirt and give a deeper clean to the filter.

Step 5: Rinse the Filter

After the filter has soaked, take it out of the solution and rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose to get rid of all the cleaning residue. Ensure you rinse the filter from multiple angles to dislodge any dirt still clinging onto the filter. A critical aspect of cleaning an above ground pool filter is to ensure that all the cleaning solutions are rinsed away.

Step 6: Reassemble the Filter

Once the filter is clean and thoroughly rinsed, it's time to reassemble it. Put the filter back in the pump and follow the manufacturer's instructions to reattach it to your pool's equipment.

Additional Tip: If you find the filter to be too dirty to clean, consider replacing it with a spare filter cartridge. Keeping an additional cartridge can act as a backup and will decrease the time required to clean the primary filter.

Conclusion

Cleaning an above-ground pool filter is an essential task and should be done on a regular basis to ensure that your pool water remains clear, clean, and safe. The process does not require complicated tools and methods, and any pool owner can do it with ease. Regular cleaning can also prolong the lifespan of your filters and save costs on expensive equipment replacements. Use this comprehensive guide to keep your filters clean, and your pool water crystal clear!