Pool Filter Maintenance Will Keep Your Pool Filter Running Smoothly

Pool filter maintenance is very important.

To ensure that a pool filter works efficiently, the filter needs occasional maintenance.

If you have never performed this type of maintenance before, you may feel intimidated.

However, the cleaning methods are very simple and can be done in a matter of minutes.

The type of maintenance you need to perform on your pool filter will depend on what type of filter your pool uses.

Performing Maintenance On A Sand Filter

If you are using a sand pool filter, you will need to change the sand every 5 - 7 years.

This will help ensure the sand grains maintain a rough quality that captures and filters out debris and other materials.

You also need to periodically "backwash" the filter.

Most sand filters use a dial head that is located on its top.

To perform a "backwash" procedure, turn the filter off and switch the valve to the Backwash position.

Turn the filter back on for approximately 5 minutes.

Then, turn the filter back off, switch the valve to the Rinse position and turn the filter back on for 1 minute.

Turn the filter off, put the valve in the Filter position and turn the pump back on. You have effectively "backwashed" the filter, cleansing the filter and the water within.

Performing Pool Filter Maintenance On A Cartridge Filter

If you use a cartridge filter, the cleansing process is different.

First, remove the cartridge from the filter. You need to cleanse the big pieces of dirt and debris that have collected.

Use water to gently remove these pieces.

If you use a strong spray of water, you could drive the dirt and debris into the cartridge, impacting its future performance.

Second, you need to soak the cartridge in a cleaning solution designed for cartridge filters. This helps remove the smaller bits of debris within the cartridge.

Last, do another quick and gentle water rinse. Again, take care not to use too much force as doing so can drive the debris and solution chemicals into the cartridge's membrane.

Performing Maintenance On A Diatomaceous Earth Filter

When dirt and debris build up in a diatomaceous earth (DE) filter, it prevents water from passing through effectively.

When this happens, you need to remove the buildup of dirt and DE.

Often, DE filters will come with a valve that allows you to reverse the water flow to cleanse this buildup.

However, that method is not always effective. Instead, turn the filter off and take the pads out to hose them down.

This is a better method to clean the buildup. When finished, replace the pads (and the tank lid) and turn the filter back on.

Regularly performing maintenance on your pool filter is the best way to ensure that it works efficiently and cleanses your pool properly.

The method you use to do this maintenance will depend on the type of filter you are using.

After doing this pool filter maintenance once or twice, it will seem like second nature.

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