How to Clean a Pool Filter
Cleaning your filter is important to keep it working at its best. It’s also a great way of ensuring you have clean water for all of your friends and family who enjoy using the pool! The first step you need to take is to determine what kind of filter you have, since there are different options available on the market today.
What Type of Pool Filter Do You Have?
Filter types can get confusing, but we’ve got your back! Cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth (D.E.) are the main types.
The Cartridge type is a system that prevents particles from contaminating the water. The heart of this machine is its cartridges, tall cylinders made up of dirt trapping fibers, housed in pressurized tanks and stabilized with closure plates for protection against outside elements like sunlight or bacteria.
The sand system works as water passes through it, catching any debris or particles that may be present in between the layers. This prevents these harmful substances from returning into the swimming area where they can cause problems with water clarity, such as algae growth!
Diatomaceous earth (D.E) filter – a type of water filtration system that uses the naturally occurring algae called diatoms in order to remove unwanted particles from drinking and bathing waters. Named after an ingredient found in many sedimentary rocks all over the Earth’s crust, these fossilized remains date back to millions or billions of years ago when they were still alive!
How to Clean a Cartridge Pool Filter
To avoid risking your safety, make sure to turn off the pool pump. Next, you need to remove any excess air by turning on a ventilation valve (usually located on top of the filter). Then, remove the latching mechanisms holding the filter together. Subsequently, remove the top of the unit, it should come off easily without excessive force on your part. You can also wash away dirt from inside using a garden hose fitted with an adjustable spray nozzle (Never attempt this procedure if there are nozzles available). Filter cleaners work well for greasy buildup on filters as well.
How to Clean a Sand Pool Filter
To clean your sand filter with the backwashing method, you will want to make sure your pool pump is off and then move the multiport valve from “backwash” position into rinse outlet mode. This process takes 3-5 minutes. The water in your sight glass will become cleaner, so you will know it is time to stop.
How to Clean a Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) Filter
The ability of the D.E filter to be cleaned in two different ways makes it an excellent choice for those who want maximum flexibility when washing their own filters. The two ways are a chemical wash and a backwash (like a sand filter). The chemical wash should be done once a year with the help of a muriatic acid. This chemical is highly caustic and can cause injury to your eyes, skin, or lungs. Follow all precautions when handling this product as well as carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
If you are not confident about cleaning the filters of your pool on your own or you have other questions or concerns regarding the maintenance of your pool, do not hesitate to reach out to us at (760) 409-6587!
