how do i clean my pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How Do I Clean My Pool Filter?

Owning a pool can be a lot of fun. However, with this luxury comes the responsibility of maintaining it properly. One of the key components of a pool system is the pool filter. The filter keeps your pool clean and safe to swim in by removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants. Over time, the filter will become dirty and clogged, and it will need to be cleaned. In this article, we’ll look at the steps involved in cleaning a pool filter.

Why is it important to clean my pool filter?

A dirty pool filter can lead to a host of problems. For starters, it can reduce the efficiency of your pool system, which will result in higher energy bills. A clogged filter can also reduce the water flow to your pool, which can create circulation problems. This can lead to water stagnation, which can serve as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, staphylococcus, and salmonella. In addition, a dirty filter can lead to cloudy and murky pool water, which can make it unpleasant to swim in.

What type of filter do I have?

Before you can clean your pool filter, you need to know what type of filter you have. There are three types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and DE (diatomaceous earth). Each type of filter requires a slightly different cleaning process.

How do I clean a sand filter?

Sand filters are the most common type of pool filter. They work by passing water through a layer of sand, which traps dirt and debris. To clean a sand filter, you will need to backwash it. Backwashing involves reversing the flow of water through the filter, which flushes out the dirt and debris. To backwash your sand filter, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the filter system.

2. Set the valve to “backwash”.

3. Turn the filter system back on.

4. Let the system run for 2-3 minutes, or until the water in the sight glass is clear.

5. Turn off the filter system.

6. Set the valve to “rinse”.

7. Turn the filter system back on.

8. Let the system run for 1-2 minutes.

9. Turn off the filter system again.

10. Set the valve back to “filter”.

How do I clean a cartridge filter?

Cartridge filters work by trapping dirt and debris in a paper-like material. To clean a cartridge filter, you will need to remove the cartridges and hose them down. Follow these steps:

1. Turn off the filter system.

2. Remove the cartridges from the filter.

3. Hose down the cartridges with a high-pressure nozzle.

4. Inspect the cartridges for tears or holes. If you find any, they will need to be replaced.

5. Reinstall the cartridges in the filter.

6. Turn the filter system back on.

How do I clean a DE filter?

DE filters work by trapping dirt and debris in a layer of diatomaceous earth. To clean a DE filter, you will need to backwash and recharge it. Follow these steps:

1. Turn off the filter system.

2. Set the valve to “backwash”.

3. Turn the filter system back on.

4. Let the system run for 2-3 minutes, or until the water in the sight glass is clear.

5. Turn off the filter system.

6. Set the valve to “rinse”.

7. Turn the filter system back on.

8. Let the system run for 1-2 minutes.

9. Turn off the filter system again.

10. Remove the DE filter grid assembly from the filter.

11. Hose down the grid assembly with a high-pressure nozzle.

12. Recharge the filter with fresh DE powder. How much DE you need will depend on the size of your filter. Check your owner’s manual for the correct amount.

13. Reinstall the grid assembly in the filter.

14. Turn the filter system back on.

Conclusion

Cleaning your pool filter is an important part of maintaining your pool. A clean filter will ensure that your pool remains clean and safe to swim in. Whether you have a sand, cartridge, or DE filter, following the proper cleaning procedure is essential. By doing so, you will extend the life of your filter and save money on your energy bill.