How To Clean A Pool Filter: Sand, Cartridge & D.E. Pool Filter

Cleaning your swimming pool filter is an important part of pool maintenance. Cleaning your swimming pool filter regularly helps prevent algae growth, keep your water clear, reduce health risks, and make your pool equipment last longer.

This article will guide you through the process of cleaning a pool filter, including how to clean a sand filter, cartridge filter, and D.E. filter.

Why Is It Important To Clean A Pool Filter?

Cleaning a pool filter is crucial for maintaining pool water quality and equipment longevity. A well-maintained filter ensures the removal of debris, dirt, and contaminants, keeping water clean and swimmer-friendly.

1. Prevents algae growth: Regular cleaning hinders algae development, preserving water clarity.
2. Maintains clear water: A clean filter is vital for keeping the pool water inviting and sparkling.
3. Prevents health problems: Regular cleaning reduces risks of skin rashes, eye infections, and other waterborne ailments.
4. Extends the life of your pool equipment: Clean filters decrease the strain on pool machinery, enhancing durability.
5. Saves money: Effective filtering means reduced need for costly pool chemicals.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Filter?

Pool filters should be cleaned at least monthly. Signs indicating the need for cleaning include a 10 psi rise above normal operating level (red area) on the pressure gauge and cloudy water appearance. Annual pool care with a deep cleaning is also recommended for optimal performance.

Which Type Of Pool Filter Do You Have?

The three main types of pool filters are sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (D.E.). Each pool filter varies in price, replacement frequency, and filtration capability. The cleaning method depends on the pool filter type and brand, such as Hayward or Pentair.

How To Clean A Pool Sand Filter?

Cleaning a sand filter involves 6 straightforward steps to ensure effective operation and water clarity. The process includes filter backwashing and using a cleaning solution. Here’s how to do it.

1. Turn off the pump: Ensure the pump is completely turned off before beginning the cleaning process.
2. Set to ‘backwash’: Adjust the multiport valve handle on your sand filter to the ‘backwash’ position.
3. Attach backwash hose: Secure your backwash hose to the waste port, ready for debris removal.
4. Perform backwashing: Activate the pump for 1-2 minutes or until the water in the sight glass appears clear, effectively removing accumulated debris.
5. Add filter cleaning solution: After turning off the pump and setting the valve to ‘filter’, pour the sand filter cleaner into the pump’s strainer basket, then briefly run the pump to distribute the cleaner.
6. Final backwash and restart: Conduct a final backwash for 3-5 minutes to cleanse the filter of dislodged dirt and debris, then restore the filter system to its normal operation.

How To Clean A Cartridge Pool Filter?

Cartridge filters are relatively easy to clean, requiring 5 steps to ensure they function efficiently. The cleaning process involves system depressurization, cartridge removal, thorough cleaning, and reassembly. Here’s a detailed guide.

1. Turn off the pump and depressurize the filter tank: Firstly, shut down the pool pump. If your system uses a timer, disable it to prevent accidental activation during cleaning. Safely release any trapped air in the system by slowly opening the air relief valve.
2. Remove the cartridge inside the filter tank: Unclamp the filter to open it. Refer to the owner’s manual if needed. Gently remove the cartridge and inspect it for any signs of damage like cracks or tears. If the cartridge is beyond cleaning, plan for a replacement.
3. Clean the pool filter cartridge: Employ a spray nozzle on a garden hose to cleanse the cartridge, focusing on the spaces between the pleats. For a heavily soiled cartridge, use a filter cartridge cleaner following manufacturer guidelines. If the cartridge is laden with algae, calcium, or other stubborn contaminants, soak it overnight in a cleaning solution in a 5 gallon bucket, ensuring complete immersion.
4. Check and lubricate the o-ring: Examine the O-ring on the filter tank for any signs of wear or damage. If it appears in good condition, apply a light coat of lubricant to maintain its efficacy. Replace the O-ring if it shows signs of dry-rot or significant wear.
5. Replace the filter cartridge and re-pressurize: After cleaning, return the cartridge to its place in the filter. Securely reassemble the filter and turn the system back on. Open the air relief valve to release trapped air, and wait for a steady stream of water to indicate proper re-pressurization.
6. Monitor the pool filter: Monitor the pressure gauge to confirm it’s within the normal operating range, ensuring the filter is functioning correctly.

Following these detailed steps ensures your cartridge pool filter is effectively working for pool maintenance, contributing to the overall health and clarity of your pool water.

How To Clean A D.E. Pool Filter?

Cleaning a D.E. filter requires 5 steps, including backwashing, cleaning or soaking the filter grids or fingers, and reassembling. These 5 steps ensure that the filter operates at peak efficiency.

1. Backwash and drain the D.E. filter: Turn off the pump, adjust the multiport valve to “Backwash” or the push/pull valve to the backwash position, and commence backwashing for 1-2 minutes until water clears. After backwashing the D.E. filter, switch off the pump, open the air relief valve, and remove the drain plug to let the water drain from the filter tank.
2. Remove DE filter manifold: Disengage the clamps or latches securing the filter, open the tank, and carefully remove the filter manifold along with all the grids or fingers. Refer to the owner’s manual if needed.
3. Rinse and/or soak filter grids: Utilize a garden hose with a spray nozzle to cleanse the manifold and grids/fingers, ensuring all debris and D.E. powder are removed. For excessive dirt, use a D.E. filter cleaner as per instructions. If needed, soak the components overnight in a muriatic acid solution (1 part muriatic acid to 20 parts water) in a large, plastic container with a lid, ensuring complete submersion.
4. Put the filter back together: After thorough cleaning and rinsing, reassemble the filter manifold and place it back into the tank. Ensure all components, including the clamps or latches, are securely fastened. Consult the owner’s manual for guidance.
5. Add fresh D.E. powder: Refer to the filter’s manual to determine the required amount of D.E. powder. Mix the D.E. powder with water to create a slurry and pour it into the pool skimmer while the pump is running. Continue running the pump for at least 15 minutes to allow even distribution of the D.E. across the filter grids or fingers.

Regular cleaning of your D.E. pool filter is vital for pool maintenance, optimal pool water quality and equipment efficiency. Following these steps ensures your pool remains a clean and safe environment for swimming.

It is necessary to replace the D.E. filter sand after 2-3 years. Learn how to change the filter sand like D.E. in my other guide.

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