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Pool filter cleaning: what you need to know
If your pool filter isn’t cleaning your pool as it should, don’t worry. You are not alone! This article is a general guide to help you keep your pool filter clean.
This is one of the most common issues affecting swimming pools.
Don’t let that stop you from enjoying the good times at home! With the right tips, you can restore crystal-clear waters and get more fun out of your pool.
Make sure to follow the correct procedure based on the model of filter you’re using, as each of them has its own characteristics and maintenance requirements.
Let’s dive in.
Pool filter cleaning essentials:
How to clean pool filters
Keeping up with proper pool maintenance ensures a safe environment and slows down the deterioration of your pool filters. Over time, dirt and debris accumulate inside the filters.
The result? Cloudy water, bacterial growth, and poor water quality. Regular cleaning prevents the filters from clogging and losing effectiveness.
Moreover, filters play a crucial role in the correct water circulation of your pool, helping to properly diffuse added substances like chlorine, and ensuring cleanliness and safety.
There are different types of filters, each with its own characteristics and lifespan. Cartridge filters, and sand filters are the most commonly used.
While backwashing is the perfect solution for sand filters, cartridge filters require manual cleaning.
Let’s take a closer look at these two solutions.
How to clean cartridge filters
Cleaning cartridge filters is quite simple and doesn’t require the use of specific tools or products. All you need is a garden hose and about half an hour to dedicate to cleaning.
Here’s how:
- Turn off your pool pump (a crucial step if you have an automatic timer).
- Remove the tank lid, which may have a clamp, a knob, or a lock ring, depending on the model.
- Gently remove the cartridge from the filter canister.
- Rinse the filter. This step will remove leaves and fibres from the filter, so select a location where you can pick up the debris afterwards. Now, use a garden hose and proceed to rinse the filter. Do not use a high-pressure washer, as it could damage the filter!
- Now that the filter is clean, you can quickly check its condition: are there any tears? Do you need to replace the cartridge?
- If the filter is clean and undamaged leave it out to dry. Once dry, shake it gently to remove any remaining debris.
- Now place it back in the canister and close the lid, tightening it to seal the system securely.
- You can now restart the pool pump. If it seems slow to restart, it may require priming.
How to backwash media filters
Sand filters require backwashing to remove debris and dirt. Here’s how:
- Start by placing the valve in the backwash position.
- Start the pool pump.
- Once the water flowing out of the filter is clean, shut off the pump and turn the valve to rinse.
- Turn on the pump for a further 30 seconds then turn off the pump.
- Turn the valve back to the filter mode and turn the pump back on.
- Done.
If you haven’t replaced your sand in the last 3 years, and the filter still doesn’t seem to be doing the job properly after backwashing, your filter media is likely the problem. You can test this by checking the pressure gauge to see if it’s consistently higher than usual.
If you determine that media is the problem, we suggest going to glass media, as it lasts for much longer and backwashes far more effectively than sand.
Following these best cleaning practices ensures optimal filter efficiency and prolongs its lifespan.
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Hey! I'm Adrian, founder and pool expert here at Dolphin Pacific. I love spending time with family, fishing, and have been known to brew my own beer.
