what to soak pool filter in

What to Soak Your Pool Filter In – Tips for Optimal Maintenance

Keeping your pool clean and hygienic depends on many factors, such as regular maintenance, proper water chemistry, and efficient pool equipment. One of the essential components of pool equipment is the filter, which picks up dirt and debris from the water and need cleaning or replacement periodically. However, what to soak your pool filter in is not something you can just guess or pick randomly. Different filters require different methods and substances to clean and optimize their performance. This article will provide you with insights and tips on what to soak pool filter in and how to maintain your pool filter for optimal results.

1. What types of pool filters are there?

Pool filters are divided into three main categories, namely sand filters, cartridge filters, and D.E. filters. Sand filters are the most common filters, and they use silica sand to trap particles in the water. Cartridge filters use paper or fabric cartridges as the filter medium, and they are more compact and efficient than sand filters. D.E. filters, short for diatomaceous earth, are the most advanced and expensive type of filters, and they use a fine powder of fossilized diatoms to capture dirt and impurities. Each type of filter requires specific cleaning techniques and substances, which we will discuss in the next sections.

2. What to soak sand filter in?

Sand filters are the easiest type of filters to maintain, but they need backwashing periodically to flush out the accumulated debris. Backwashing means reversing the water flow in the filter and sending out the dirty water to waste. However, backwashing alone may not remove all the dirt and oil trapped in the sand, and for deep cleaning, you need to soak the sand filter in a filter cleaner solution. The best filter cleaner for sand filters is muriatic acid, which is a diluted form of hydrochloric acid. Muriatic acid breaks down the organic matter and minerals in the sand and dissolves them, making them easier to backwash out. To soak your sand filter in muriatic acid, follow these steps:

- Turn off the pool pump and shut off the filter valves.

- Remove the drain plug at the bottom of the filter and let out the water.

- Remove the top of the filter and take out the sand.

- Put the sand in a large bucket or container and add enough muriatic acid to cover it fully.

- Let the sand soak in the acid for at least four hours, but not more than 24 hours.

- Rinse the sand thoroughly with water and replace it in the filter.

- Turn on the pump and backwash for at least three minutes until the water runs clear.

- Rinse the filter for one minute, then return the valves to their normal positions.

3. What to soak cartridge filter in?

Cartridge filters are more delicate than sand filters, and they need chemical and mechanical cleaning to remove the dirt and oil clogged in the fibers. Chemical cleaning means soaking the cartridge in a filter cleaner solution that dissolves the organic matter and minerals, while mechanical cleaning means brushing the cartridge with a soft brush to dislodge the debris. The best filter cleaner for cartridge filters is a solution of tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) and a degreaser, such as Simple Green. TSP is an alkaline crystalline powder that removes oil, grease, and grime, while Simple Green is a biodegradable cleaner that dissolves dirt and stains. To soak your cartridge filter in TSP and Simple Green, follow these steps:

- Remove the filter cartridge from the filter housing and rinse it with a high-pressure hose.

- Fill a large container or bucket with hot water and add 1 cup of TSP and 1 cup of Simple Green per 5 gallons of water.

- Soak the filter cartridge in the solution for at least 4 hours, but not more than 24 hours.

- Rinse the cartridge thoroughly with a high-pressure hose, focusing on the pleats and tight spots.

- Inspect the cartridge for tears or damage, and replace it if necessary.

- Reinstall the filter cartridge in the filter housing and secure it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

- Turn on the pump and check the pressure gauge to ensure optimal flow.

4. What to soak D.E. filter in?

D.E. filters are the most complex and sensitive type of filters and require proper handling and maintenance to function correctly. D.E. filters use a fine powdery substance, called diatomaceous earth, as the filter medium, and they need backwashing and recharging periodically. Recharging means adding more D.E. powder to the filter and coating the grids evenly. However, before recharging, you need to soak the D.E. filter grids in a filter cleaner solution, such as D.E. filter cleaner or a mixture of muriatic acid and water. D.E. filter cleaner is a liquid surfactant that dissolves the oil and dirt clogged in the grids and makes them easier to wash off. To soak your D.E. filter in D.E. filter cleaner, follow these steps:

- Turn off the pool pump and shut off the filter valves.

- Open the air relief valve and drain the water from the filter.

- Remove the filter grids from the housing and rinse them with a high-pressure hose.

- Fill a large container or bucket with hot water and add the recommended amount of D.E. filter cleaner.

- Soak the grids in the solution for at least 12 hours, but not more than 24 hours.

- Rinse the grids thoroughly with a hose, focusing on the fingers and manifold.

- Reinstall the grids in the housing and coat them evenly with fresh D.E. powder.

- Turn on the pump and let the filter run for a few minutes to evenly distribute the D.E. powder.

- Check the pressure gauge to ensure optimal flow, and backwash if necessary.

5. What are the dos and don'ts of pool filter maintenance?

To ensure that your pool filter performs optimally and lasts long, it's essential to follow some basic rules and avoid some common mistakes. Here are some dos and don'ts of pool filter maintenance:

Dos:

- Clean your pool filter regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

- Use the recommended filter cleaner solutions and substances for your filter type.

- Inspect your filter elements for wear and tear and replace them if necessary.

- Keep your pool chemistry balanced and prevent high levels of oils, metals, and organic matter.

- Backwash your filter as often as needed, depending on the pressure gauge reading and water clarity.

Don'ts:

- Use bleach, chlorine, or other harsh chemicals to soak your filter, as they can damage the filter materials.

- Put your filter in the dishwasher or washing machine, as they can break or warp the filter elements.

- Let your filter dry out or expose it to direct sunlight, as it can deform or clog the filter fibers.

- Neglect your filter maintenance or wait too long before cleaning or replacing the filter elements.

- Skimp on buying quality filter elements or cleaning solutions, as they can save you money and headaches in the long run.

Conclusion

Knowing what to soak your pool filter in is a crucial part of pool maintenance and can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches. Each type of filter has specific requirements and techniques for cleaning and optimizing, and it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. By keeping your pool filter clean and hygienic, you ensure that your pool water is safe, clear, and enjoyable for swimming and relaxing.