Cleaning your pool filter regularly is one of the most important parts of pool care. A dirty filter leads to dull or cloudy water, weak circulation and extra strain on your pump. In this post, we explain how to clean each type of pool filter and what happens if you let it go too long.
How to Clean Each Type of Pool Filter
Own a swimming pool? Then you know regular maintenance keeps it looking clean and inviting. Cleaning the filter removes the dirt and debris it has trapped, keeps your water clear and helps the filter last longer. Below we cover how to clean each common type of filter, and how our pool filter cleaning service in Hoschton can take care of it for you.
Types of Pool Filters
Pool maintenance takes time and effort, and the filter is one of the parts that matters most. There are three main types of pool filters:
- Sand filter
- Cartridge filter
- Diatomaceous earth (DE) filter
Sand Filter
A sand filter pushes water through a bed of special filter sand that traps dirt and debris while clean water passes through. Watch the pressure gauge: when it reads 8 to 10 PSI above its normal clean reading, it is time to clean the filter.
Sand filters are cleaned by backwashing. Turn off the pump, set the valve to Backwash and attach the backwash hose. Turn the pump back on and let it run for one to two minutes, until the water in the sight glass or hose runs clear. Turn the pump off, set the valve to Rinse and run it for about 30 seconds. Then turn the pump off, set the valve back to Filter and turn the pump on. The sand itself needs replacing every few years.
Need help with your sand filter? Our team at Clear Tec Pools can backwash it, check the pressure and tell you when the sand is due for replacement, so your filter keeps running smoothly.
Cartridge Filter
A cartridge filter pushes water through a pleated polyester fabric that catches dirt and debris. Like a sand filter, it needs cleaning when the pressure gauge reads 8 to 10 PSI above its clean reading.
Cartridge filters are not backwashed. Turn off the pump, release the pressure, take out the cartridge and rinse it from top to bottom with a garden hose, working between the pleats. If it is greasy or stained, soak it in a filter cleaning solution. Reinstall the cartridge, close the filter and turn the pump back on. Replace the cartridge if the fabric is torn or the pleats are flattened.
Looking for reliable cartridge filter cleaning in Hoschton? You can count on us. We clean and inspect cartridges and replace them when they no longer hold a clean pressure.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filter
A DE filter pushes water through grids coated with diatomaceous earth powder, which traps very fine particles. When the pressure gauge rises 8 to 10 PSI above clean, it is time to clean it. DE filters are backwashed like sand filters, and then you add fresh DE powder through the skimmer to recoat the grids. Once or twice a year the grids should be taken out and cleaned by hand.
Want help with your DE filter? Our experienced team at Clear Tec Pools backwashes, recharges and cleans DE filters so your water is filtered properly and stays clear. Filter checks are also part of our weekly pool maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a professional clean my pool?
Weekly. Regular service keeps the water balanced and free of germs and catches equipment problems early.
How often should a pool filter be backwashed?
Backwash when the pressure gauge reads 8 to 10 PSI above its normal clean pressure, rather than on a fixed schedule. In busy swim season or after storms and heavy pollen, that may be every week or two.
Do pool filters need maintenance?
Yes. Every filter needs regular cleaning, and filter media wears out: sand every few years, cartridges every one to three years and DE grids when they tear. A well-maintained filter keeps your water clear and reduces strain on the pump.
Need help with your pool in Hoschton or nearby? Call Clear Tec Pools at 678-679-0165 or book online.