how to clean a swimming pool filter

Swimming pools are a great addition to any home, especially during the hot summer months. However, to keep your swimming pool water crystal clear and safe for swimming, it’s important to maintain your swimming pool’s filter.

Filter cleaning is an essential and routine maintenance procedure that must be done by every pool owner. Not only does it keep the water fresh and safe, but it also extends the life of the filter. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps involved in cleaning a swimming pool filter.

What Is A Swimming Pool Filter?

Before we look at how to clean a swimming pool filter, let’s first understand what it is. A swimming pool filter is a device that keeps the water clean, free of debris, and safe for swimming. The pool filter is responsible for removing impurities such as dirt, leaves, insects, and bacteria from the swimming pool water.

Types Of Swimming Pool Filters

There are different types of swimming pool filters, and each works differently. The three basic types of pool filters are:

1. Cartridge Filters – These filters feature a pleated cartridge filter element made from spunbond polyester fabric with PVC center core. They are easy to maintain, and the filter cartridge can be easily cleaned.

2. Sand Filters – Sand filters contain a bed of sand, which serves as the filter medium. The pool water passes through the sand, where impurities are trapped, and then the water goes back into the pool.

3. Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters – DE filters contain grids that are coated with diatomaceous earth, a fine white powder made from fossilized remains of marine phytoplankton. The DE filters have superior filtration capabilities, but they also require more maintenance than the other filters.

How To Clean Pool Filters

Now that we have looked at different types of swimming pool filters let’s get into the actual cleaning process. Each filter type requires a slightly different cleaning method, but the basic process is the same.

Here’s how to clean a swimming pool filter:

1. Backwash The Filter

Before starting the cleaning process, turn off the pool pump and open the filter valve. The first step in cleaning a swimming pool filter is to backwash the filter. Backwashing the filter involves reversing the flow of water through the filter, which dislodges dirt and debris from the filter media.

To backwash the filter, switch your valve to the “backwash” setting, turn on the pool pump and let it run for 2-3 minutes.

2. Rinse The Filter

Once you have backwashed the filter, switch your valve to the “rinse” setting, and let the water run through the filter for about a minute. Rinsing the filter removes any remaining dirt and debris from the filter media.

3. Disassemble The Filter

After rinsing the filter, turn off the pool pump and remove the filter from its housing. Carefully remove any loose or excess debris from the filter. If your filter has a removable cartridge or grids, now is the time to carefully remove them.

4. Clean The Filter

Next, clean the filter with the appropriate cleaning agent. Different types of filters require different cleaners, so ensure you are using the right one. For example, sand filters can be cleaned with muriatic acid, while cartridge filters require a degreaser.

5. Reassemble The Filter

Once the filter media is clean, visually inspect it to ensure it is in good condition. If the media needs to be changed, do so at this time. Clean out the housing and any other parts that had to be removed earlier. Reassemble the filter, reinstall any cartridges or grids, and tighten any clamps or bolts as needed.

In Conclusion

Cleaning your swimming pool filter is a crucial maintenance procedure that should be done several times during the pool season. By following the steps outlined above, you can help prolong the lifespan of your pool filter and ensure that you swim in clean and safe water. Remember to always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions and to use safe practices when working on your pool filter.