How to Clean a Pool Filter: A Complete Guide for Cartridge, Sand, and D.E. Filters
Maintaining a clean pool filter is essential for keeping your swimming pool sparkling and clear. At AQUASTRONG, we believe that proper pool care can save you time and money in the long run. Whether you have a cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth (D.E.) filter, knowing how to clean your pool filter will ensure that your system runs efficiently and helps maintain clean pool water. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps for cleaning each type of pool filter.
Why Is It Important to Clean Your Pool Filter?
Your pool filter plays a vital role in trapping dirt, debris, and contaminants, ensuring that your water remains clear and healthy. Over time, filters can become clogged with debris, which reduces their effectiveness and can cause cloudy pool water. Cleaning your pool filter regularly not only improves the water quality but also extends the life of your pool equipment.
How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Filter?
As a general rule, it’s important to clean your pool filter at least once a month. However, the frequency may vary depending on factors like pool usage, the presence of algae, or the type of filter you have. A good indicator that it's time for a cleaning is when the pressure gauge reads 10 psi (pounds per square inch) higher than normal. If you notice cloudy pool water or a drop in filtration performance, it's time to clean your filter.
Additionally, deep-cleaning your pool filter once a year will help keep it in optimal working condition. Keep reading to learn how to clean each type of pool filter.
How to Clean a Cartridge Pool Filter: 4 Simple Steps
Cleaning a cartridge pool filter is an easy and effective way to ensure your pool filter is operating at peak performance. Here's how to do it:
1. Turn Off the Pump and Depressurize the System
Before starting, turn off the pool pump. If you have a timer, ensure that it won't automatically turn the pump back on. For safety, open the air relief valve on top of the filter tank to remove any trapped air.
2. Remove the Cartridge from the Filter Tank
Loosen and remove any clamps or fasteners holding the filter together. Take off the top of the filter tank and carefully remove the cartridge. Inspect the cartridge for any cracks or damage. If it is damaged or cannot be cleaned effectively, it may be time to replace it.
3. Clean the Cartridge
Using a garden hose with a spray nozzle, rinse the cartridge thoroughly. Make sure to clean between the pleats to remove all debris. If your cartridge is heavily soiled, you may want to use a specialized cartridge cleaner. Alternatively, you can soak the cartridge in a pool filter cleaner solution overnight to dissolve stubborn buildup.
If you prefer a DIY solution, you can mix one part muriatic acid with 20 parts water in a bucket to soak the cartridge. Always handle muriatic acid with care and follow proper safety guidelines.
4. Reassemble the Filter and Re-Pressurize
Once the cartridge is clean and dry, place it back into the filter tank. Secure the filter and replace the top. Turn the system back on and open the air relief valve until a steady stream of water flows out. Check the pressure gauge to ensure the filter is operating within the normal pressure range.
How to Clean a Sand Filter: 3 Easy Steps
Sand filters are one of the most common pool filter types. They can be cleaned through a process called backwashing, which involves reversing the water flow to flush out dirt and debris.
1. Backwash the Sand Filter
Start by turning off the pool pump. Move the multiport valve to the "Backwash" setting and attach the backwash hose to the waste port. Turn the pump back on and allow it to run for 1-2 minutes or until the water flowing out is clear.
2. Add Filter Cleaner
Once backwashing is complete, turn off the pump. Switch the valve to "Filter" and add the appropriate amount of filter cleaner to the strainer basket. Turn the pump on for about 15 seconds to allow the cleaner to move into the filter.
3. Backwash Again
Turn the pump off and backwash the filter again for 3-5 minutes to remove any loosened debris. Afterward, you can restart the filtration system and return to normal operation.
How to Clean a D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) Filter: 5 Steps
Cleaning a D.E. filter is slightly more involved but necessary to ensure efficient filtration.
1. Backwash the D.E. Filter
Turn off the pool pump and move the multiport valve to "Backwash." Attach the hose to the waste port, turn on the pump, and allow it to run for 1-2 minutes, or until the water becomes clear. Once finished, turn off the pump and open the air relief valve.
2. Remove the D.E. Filter Manifold
Loosen the clamps or fasteners to open the filter tank. Remove the manifold and take out the filter grids or fingers.
3. Rinse and Soak the Filter Grids
Use a hose to rinse the grids thoroughly, ensuring you remove any D.E. powder and debris. For heavily soiled filters, soak the grids in a cleaning solution overnight. A solution of muriatic acid (1 part acid to 20 parts water) can be used if needed, but make sure to handle the acid with extreme caution.
4. Reassemble the Filter
Once the grids are clean, rinse out the filter tank with water and place the manifold and grids back into the filter. Secure everything properly.
5. Add Fresh D.E. Powder
Finally, add fresh D.E. powder according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the D.E. slurry (a mix of powder and water) into the pool skimmer while the pump is running. Let the system run for 30 minutes to allow the D.E. to distribute evenly.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your pool filter ensures that your pool remains crystal clear and the filtration system works efficiently. Whether you have a cartridge, sand, or D.E. filter, following these steps will help extend the life of your equipment and maintain sparkling pool water.
At AQUASTRONG, we’re committed to providing you with the best pool maintenance tips and products to keep your pool in top shape. For more pool care guides or to explore our range of high-quality pool equipment, visit our website today!