Generally, you want to clean a pool filter whenever the pressure gauge shows an increase of 8-10 PSI above the baseline. If you don’t want to keep an eye on the gauge, a good schedule to follow is once every 3 to 4 months.
Cleaning pool filters is essential for maintaining a healthy swimming pool and ensuring your pool equipment lasts. How often you need to clean your pool filter depends on the type, level of usage, and the surrounding area.
If you want to know more, we dive into the nitty gritty of pool filters below.
What Is Pool Filter Cleaning?
Pool filter cleaning is all about keeping your pool’s water sparkling clean and safe for swimming. It’s like giving your pool’s filtration system a good scrub to ensure it works efficiently.
Regular pool filter cleaning keeps your pool looking great and helps your filtration system last longer. So, whether you’re splashing around on hot summer days or lounging by the poolside, keeping up with filter maintenance means you’ll always have crystal-clear water to enjoy.
Why Do Pool Filters Get Dirty So Quickly?
Pool filters get dirty quickly for a bunch of reasons, and understanding them can help you keep your pool water clean and clear. Let’s dive into the main culprits!
- Nature: Leaves, pollen, insects, and even dust can find their way into your pool, especially if you have trees or plants nearby. These natural elements are constantly falling into the water, and your filter works hard to catch them all.
- Swimmers: Every time someone jumps in, they bring along body oils, sweat, sunscreen, and hair. These substances can quickly clog up your filter, especially if you have a lot of pool parties or frequent swimmers.
- Environment debris: The wind can blow dirt, dust, and other debris into your pool. If you live in a dusty area or there’s construction nearby, your filter will have to work overtime to keep the water clean.
- Chemical imbalances: If the pH levels or chlorine levels are off, it can lead to the growth of algae and bacteria, which the filter then has to trap and remove.
- Heavy rain: Houston is no stranger to heavy rain, which can wash additional dirt and debris into the pool, further burdening the filter. Plus, rainwater can alter the pool’s chemical balance, leading to more frequent cleaning.
- Usage: The more people using the pool, the more contaminants introduced, and the harder your filter has to work. Regular maintenance, including skimming the surface and vacuuming the pool, can help reduce the load on your filter.
So, while it might seem like your pool filter gets dirty too quickly, it’s just doing its job to keep your swimming water clean and safe. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep everything running smoothly!
Different Types of Pool Filters & How Often to Clean Them
When it comes to keeping your pool water crystal clear, the type of pool filter you have makes a big difference. Let’s break down the three main types of pool filters and how often you need to clean them.
Cartridge Filters
Cartridge filters are super popular because they’re easy to use and maintain. These filters use a paper-like material to trap dirt and debris. Generally, you should clean your cartridge filter every 2-6 weeks.
If your pool sees heavy use or is surrounded by lots of trees and plants, you might need to clean it more often. Cleaning is simple: remove the cartridge, hose it down, and soak it in a filter cleaner if it’s really grimy.
Sand Filters
Sand filters use, you guessed it, sand to filter out impurities. Water flows through the sand, which traps dirt and debris. These filters are pretty low maintenance. You’ll need to backwash them—reversing the water flow to flush out the trapped dirt—about once a month.
If your pool gets a lot of use or there’s been a storm, you might need to backwash more frequently. It’s also a good idea to change the sand every 3-5 years to keep it working efficiently.
DE Filters
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filters are the heavy hitters, capturing the smallest particles for super clear water. They use a fine powder called diatomaceous earth to coat a grid inside the filter.
You should backwash a DE filter every 4-6 weeks or when the pressure gauge indicates a rise of 8-10 PSI. After backwashing, add fresh DE powder. Every six months, give the filter a thorough cleaning by taking it apart and cleaning the grids.
Regular cleaning keeps your pool filter working at its best, ensuring your pool water stays clean and inviting. So, stay on top of your filter maintenance and enjoy sparkling clear water all season long!
Pool Filter Cleaning Tips
- Check Pressure Gauge Regularly: Clean the filter when the pressure rises 8-10 PSI above normal.
- Rinse Off Debris: Use a garden hose to rinse off debris from cartridge filters.
- Backwash Sand and DE Filters: Backwash these filters to remove trapped dirt and debris.
- Deep Clean Periodically: Soak cartridge filters in a filter cleaner solution for a thorough cleaning. Disassemble and clean DE filters every six months.
- Replace Filter Media: Change sand every 3-5 years. Replace DE powder after each backwash.
- Inspect for Damage: Check filters for cracks or tears and replace damaged parts.
- Maintain Proper Chemical Balance: Ensure pool water chemistry is balanced to prevent excessive filter clogging.
- Skim and Vacuum Pool Regularly: Reduce debris load by skimming the surface and vacuuming the pool.
- Cover Your Pool: Use a pool cover when not in use to minimize debris entry.
- Monitor Pool Usage: Clean filters more frequently during heavy pool use or after storms.
Following these tips will keep your pool filter in top shape and your pool water sparkling clean.
Ready for a Cleaner Pool?
Keeping your pool and filters clean can be a hassle, but that’s where Pool Bros comes in! Our team of experts is ready to handle all your pool maintenance needs, from regular filter cleaning to balancing your pool’s chemicals.
With Pool Bros, you can enjoy crystal-clear water without the stress. Don’t let dirty filters ruin your pool fun—give us a call today and let us do the hard work for you. Dive into a hassle-free pool experience!