Having a pool is more than fun and relaxing around it. It also means knowing proper maintenance and cleaning, so you can enjoy your home pool for a long time. And one of the many things you have to do is pool filter maintenance.
Maintaining your pool filter is crucial for keeping your pool clean and functioning efficiently. A dirty or clogged filter can lead to poor water circulation, cloudy water, and even potential damage to your pool equipment.
Understanding how to clean and maintain different types of pool filters—cartridge, sand, and diatomaceous earth (D.E.)—is essential for any pool owner.
How to Clean a Cartridge Pool Filter
Cartridge filters are among the easiest pool filters to clean and maintain. They require regular rinsing and occasional deep cleaning to function properly. Here’s how to clean a a cartridge filter:
- Turn off the Pool Pump
Always ensure the pump is off before starting maintenance.
- Release Air from the System
Slowly turn the air relief valve to let out excess air.
- Remove the Filter Cartridge
Carefully take out the filter and inspect for any visible damage.
- Rinse the Cartridge
Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to clean between the pleats.
- Deep Cleaning
Soak the cartridge in a filter cleaner overnight once a month.
- Inspect and Lubricate O-rings
Apply lubricant if needed and replace worn-out O-rings.
- Reassemble and Restart
Place the cartridge back, secure it, and restart the system.
If you want to change your cartridge pool filter, you need to consider the length of time you’ve used it in your pool or when you see cracks, tears, or excessive wear appear on it. Ideally, you need to replace at least once a year or when it becomes too dirty to clean effectively.
How to Clean a Sand Pool Filter
Sand filters require regular backwashing to remove trapped debris. Additionally, an annual chemical cleaning helps keep the filter operating efficiently. Here are the steps to backwash a sand filter:
- Attach the Backwash Hose
Connect it to the backwash or waste port.
- Turn Off the Filter System
Doing so prevents damage while switching settings.
- Set the Multiport Valve to Backwash
Turn the pump back on and run it until the water runs clear.
- Rinse the Filter
Set the valve to rinse for about 30 seconds.
- Return to Filter Mode
Set the valve back to its normal position.
If you want to change your sand filter, you need to see if the water remains cloudy after backwashing or if the pressure remains high. Sand should be replaced every 4 to 5 years.
How to Clean a D.E. Pool Filter
D.E. filters require both backwashing and periodic grid cleaning for optimal performance. If you want to follow the proper pool filter maintenance, you need to do the following:
- Turn Off the Pump and Release Air
Open the air relief valve.
- Backwash the Filter
Similar to the sand filter maintenance, follow the same process to backwash the D.E. pool filter.
- Drain the Filter Tank
Remove the drain plug and let the water out.
- Disassemble and Clean the Grids
Use a hose to rinse off old D.E. powder and debris.
- Reassemble and Recharge with D.E. Powder
Replace the grids, secure the filter, and add new D.E. powder.
You can change your D.E. filter every two to three years or when excessive wear is noticed. A full acid cleaning should be done annually to prevent buildup and extend the filter’s lifespan.
Enjoy a Clean Pool Every Day
Regular maintenance of your pool filter ensures clean, safe water and extends the lifespan of your pool system. A clean filter means a clean pool, so stay proactive with your pool filter maintenance and care routine!
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