How Often to Clean Pool Filter: An Essential Guide

Imagine that one summer morning, you wake up wanting to enjoy your swimming pool and discover that the filters are all jam-packed. Therefore, keeping your pool filter clean is one of the most important aspects of pool maintenance.

Cleaning the pool filter removes deposits like dust, sand, and sediments. These abrasive particles build up in the pool filtration system. Keep scrolling to learn how often to clean the pool filter.

In this complete maintenance guide, we’ll show you:

Why Cleaning Your Pool Filter is Important?

Regular maintenance and backwashing of your pool filter are key to maintaining clear and hygienic pool water. Keeping your filter clean ensures your pool is always ready for a refreshing swim, free from harmful bacteria, algae, and debris.

Allowing the filter to get very dirty can cause added stress on the pool pump and affect the pool’s cleansing. This can lead to mechanical damage and costly repairs.

How Often Should You Clean Pool Filters?

Your pool filter cleaning frequency depends on the filter type, pool size, and usage frequency. Here’s a general guide to cleaning schedules for different filter types:

Cleaning Frequency for Cartridge Filters

These need to be cleaned every 3 months. Clean them more often if your pool has high debris levels or heavy usage.

Cleaning Frequency for Sand Filters

Sand filters typically require cleaning less frequently. Backwash the filter when the pressure gauge reads 8–10 psi above the base reading, usually every 2-3 months.

Cleaning Frequency for DE Filters (Diatomaceous Earth)

DE filters need thorough cleaning once a year, or sooner if you notice pressure increases or performance issues.

Clean all filters when the pressure gauge reads 8–10 psi higher than normal. If you’re unsure, check your filter’s manual for specific recommendations.

Signs That Your Pool Filter Needs Cleaning

How do you know it’s time to clean your pool filter? Look for these clues:

• ► Low water flow due to accumulated debris
• ► Reduced suction abilities of pool cleaners
• ► Higher pressure above 10 psi
• ► A significant change in water quality

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Pool Filters

Let’s go into the simple and straightforward process of cleaning the pool cartridge filter.

Step 1: Switch Off The Power Supply Of The Pool Pump

Disconnect the pump from its power supply, particularly if connected to an automatic timer during operation.

Step 2: Release All The Available Inlet And Outlet Valves

The air relief valve prevents pressure build-up, while the ball valve helps drain water from the filter.

Step 3: Locate The Filter Housing And Remove The Lid

Next, use a socket wrench to remove the bolts securing the filter housing lid. Gently lift the lid to expose the filter cartridges.

Step 4: Take Out The Cartridge Of The Filter Canister

Take off the top manifold, followed by the filters. Apply slight pressure upwards while applying a rocking motion. Look for signs of wear or tear on the cartridge. Even a tiny tear will reduce the filter’s efficiency.

Step 5: Wipe Off The Cartridge

It is advisable to wash the filters immediately after they are removed from the water. Before you start, select a location where it will be easier to clear the mess afterwards. Use regular pressure from a garden hose. Wash at least 45 degrees to prevent harm to the filter. Turn the cartridge over and spray the solvent from the opposite angle. Clean the trapped debris out from between the pleats using a brush.

Step 6: Submerge The Pool Filters In The Solution

This step is optional but very effective. Pour about 1 cup of TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) or 1 cup detergent per 5 gallons of water into a bucket, then soak the filters thoroughly.

Step 7: Clean The Inside Of The Pool Filter Housing

While the filters were undergoing the TSP bath, you had the best opportunity to clean the filter housing. Wash the inside and use a pipe to clean out any accumulated dirt at the bottom through the drainage hole.

Step 8: Place It Back

Once you are done, reassemble the filter canister and replace the lid. Make sure the sealed plate is in the right position. Now, turn on the power and close the air relief valve after the water starts to spray out.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Pool Filter Life

The following quick tips can enhance filter performance and extend its lifespan:

1. Never use a power washer when cleaning cartridge filters, which can wear out filter elements.
2. Consistent use of a pool cleaner that requires less maintenance, such as Aiper Scuba S1 Pro, calls for reduced filter maintenance.
3. Let the filter dry completely before reinstalling it. It is okay if your filter doesn’t look brand new, as long as there is no excessive debris.
4. Immerse the cartridge in a cleaning solution to remove stiff debris. Use the required dosage for your pool size.

Conclusion

Summer is just around the corner, and it is important to know how often to clean your pool filter. This keeps your pool water clean and your equipment working well.

Cleaning frequency depends on how many swimmers you have, but aim to clean the cartridge filter every four to six weeks. Otherwise, debris slips through the filter system and back into the pool water. Adhering to these measures will ensure clear and sparkling pool water with less pressure on equipment.