A hot day is a perfect time to jump into your swimming pool to relax, get some exercise, and have fun pool parties. But all that fun could be ruined if your pool isn’t clean. Your pool filter is essential to keeping your pool well-maintained.
Additionally, to keep your pool clean, you will also be required to keep your filter clean so that it can do its job properly. Let’s see how often you need pool filter cleaning and tips to maintain the system, so your pool is ready to use.
How does Pool Filter work?
Your pump draws pool water from the skimmer(s), located on the pool wall, and the main drain(s), either on or near the bottom of your pool.
The water flows to the filter through the pump, which removes dirt, debris, and if the filter works well, bacteria.
After it has been filtered, the water flows through the plumbing to the heater (if any) and then the salt chlorinator (if any salt water pool).
The pool water is filtered out and returned to the pool through the return jets installed on the pool walls.
Why is Pool Filter Cleaning Necessary?
Pool filters, just like anything else, wear and tear over time. Poor maintenance can accelerate these processes and reduce their life.
Debris and chemicals build up over time in the pool filter. If the filter isn’t cleaned properly, it will become clogged, resulting in cloudy water, bacteria growth, and poor water quality.
Moreover, pool filters also play an important role in the circulation of pool water since they assist in spreading the chemicals added to the pool while ensuring a clean swimming area.
Cleaning your pool filter regularly is a great way to prevent expensive repairs and infectious diseases. Filters that are clogged will cause problems with the pool pump too. It will back up and flood, leading to much damage.
When to Clean the Pool Filter?
There can be a variety of answers to this question, but generally, you should clean your filter every six months. This should be enough if you are using the right kind of filter and there are no extenuating circumstances. For example, if there are many more people than usual in your swimming pool or if an algae bloom occurs, you may need to clean sooner than usual. If the water quality changes noticeably, look for signs.
This means it’s time to clean the filter. You can check the filter pressure gauge to figure out when it’s time. You can see when it’s clear by looking at the indicator. The lower the pressure, the better your pool will be. When that number rises, you need to clean it again.
On average, a pool’s filter needs to be cleaned periodically in the summer and monthly in the offseason-usually once a month during swim season.
Tips to Clean the Pool Filter
As a general rule, you should read the instructions that come with your filter before starting the process. Here are some tips for each type. Before cleaning, turn off the electric heater, then turn it back on.
Cartridge Pool Filter Cleaning
Disconnect the water supply to the pool and turn off the pool pump when cleaning cartridge pool filters. Before removing the filter’s lid, turn the air relief valve (typically counterclockwise), usually found on top of the compartment. When the valve has been tuned properly, you’ll hear air coming out.
After removing air from the compartment, you can remove the filter. To open the compartment, you will likely need pliers or a wrench to open the compartment but be careful not to break the seal gasket.
Look for tears or holes in the filter. Spray a garden hose gently to remove debris, and let it dry in the sun. Use an air compressor or shake it vigorously to remove particles that might still be left in the filter.
Sand Pool Filter Cleaning
The pump should be stopped, and the suction and return lines should be closed. Remove the pump cover and empty the filter basket. Replace the pump cover, open the drain outlet valve, and set it to “backwash.” Once the pump runs again, open the suction and return line valves once again.
Rinse your sand filter for a few minutes before stopping the pump and turning the setting to “rinse.” After rinsing for a minute, put the lever back in the “filter” and turn on the pump again. Close the drain outlet valve and then turn it on.
DE Pool Filter Cleaning
Initially, turn off the pump and turn the multiport valve to “backwash” before turning everything back on and backwashing for a few minutes. Before turning the valve back to its original position, shut off the pump again.
Next, slowly and steadily add diatomaceous earth back into the filter while running. Finally, clear any air out of the tank. Follow these steps as many times as necessary, usually a few more rounds, each with a shorter time commitment than the previous one.
The more greenery around your pool, the more leaves, sticks, and other plant debris you will end up with. If the greenery is kept further away from your pool, you will have less debris.
Increase maintenance as needed. It is ideal for moving nearby landscaping or keeping it well-trimmed; regularly remove large debris from the pool and vacuum it. The risk of debris ending up in the water is increased during rainstorms and windstorms, as well as when heavy use occurs.
Get Professional Help to Clean Your Pool Filter
You may need to contact a local pool maintenance professional depending on the problem. Their services include regular filter replacement, cleaning, and assisting with your swimming pool needs.
Alliance Pools & Patio offers a variety of pool cleaning and maintenance services, from swimming pool filter cleaning to backwashing and balancing chemicals to more. You can choose one of our many pool cleaning services and spend your time enjoying your beautiful pool with friends and family this summer.
Final Word
No matter what type of filtering system you have, regular cleaning must be scheduled by a pool cleaning service. You can handle pool cleaning correctly by following these tips to minimize the hassle and ensure hours of fun at the poolside.