The Best Method For Cleaning Your Pool Filter

If you're a homeowner with a swimming pool, you know that vigilant maintenance and care are crucial. Yes, it's a lot of work, but it provides a wonderful entertainment feature while simultaneously adding value to your home. Cleaning your pool filter is one of the routine tasks you will be performing, and it's essential to know the proper procedure. There are three types of pool filters we'll be discussing: sand filters, cartridge filters, and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters. 

First, let's talk about how you can determine when it's time to clean your pool filter. In the summer, check your pressure gauge on the pool filter about once a month. You'll see a PSI (pounds per square inch) that stays about the same all the time, but every pool is different as far as the number. When you notice it going up by 8 to 10 pounds, it's time to clean the filter. If you're unsure what the normal number is for your pool, clean the filter if it's been more than a month or the water is cloudy, and right afterwards, write down that number. It's as simple as that!

We're going to start in the middle with cartridge filters, because these are typically used in above-ground pools that are smaller in size. During the summer months of use, you'll need to check your pressure every other week, but during winterization, once every three months is average. This type of filter is prone to losing efficiency completely if left dirty for too long. The best and safest method for cleaning pool filter cartridges is with a garden hose with a spray attachment.

Always shut the pump off first, then take the valve off the filter and open it up to remove the cartridge. Starting from the top down, take the hose sprayer and get in between each section from top to bottom. Then, take the cartridge and turn it upside down, and repeat the same steps. Make sure you're getting enough water pressure to remove the dirt and debris. Once clean, you simply reassemble the filter and open the valves. Bleed the system to remove the air by placing the bleed valve on top of the filter. When water comes out of the bleed valve, it's ready to go.

For both sand and DE filter cleaning, you will be backwashing the system, so before you start, check your water level. Make sure it's at least ¾ of the way up the skimmer mouth to account for the water you're going to be losing with the process. As always, shut the system off and turn the setting to backwash. If you have a backwash/separation tank valve, open it. If you're using a backwash hose, unroll it and put it in a spot you need to water!

Next, run the pump until the sight glass is clear, then shut off. Change the setting to "rinse" and run the pump for three seconds, then turn it off. Then, change the setting to "filter," and if you opened a backwash or separation tank valve, close it. Restart the pump and let it run. For a DE filter, this is where you add two or three scoops of DE powder to the skimmer closet. Incidentally, the DE filtration system is probably the best option for residential in-ground pools. Take care of your swimming pool, and it will give you back a lifetime of fun and enjoyment!