Your pool filter does a lot of the dirty work for you. Specifically, it removes dirt, algae, and debris from the water before it reaches the pump so you can swim in clean and clear pool water.

Because of the amount of dirt the filter collects, however, it’s prone to clogging and defects. If this happens and you neglect to fix it, you’ll have a range of problems on your hands: a clogged filter can’t sanitize your pool water properly, which can then lead to sanitation issues like cloudy water and the formation of a breeding ground for pathogens.

So, your filter needs to be cleaned regularly to make sure it continues doing its job of keeping the pool clean. The recommended frequency and method of cleaning depends on what type of pool filter you have.

Clark County Pool & Lawn, a pool cleaning service in Las Vegas, details the cleaning process for three different types of pool filters: cartridge, sand, and D.E.

How to Clean a Pool Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters are the easiest type to clean. Basically, all you need to do is pull out the cartridge, clean it, then put it back in. Here’s the detailed process:

First, turn off the pump and the filter then remove air from the system by turning the air relief valve slowly. Afterward, remove the filter and inspect it for cracks and tears. If you find any, that means it’s time for a replacement.

If the filter’s still in good condition, you can proceed to spray the cartridge down with a garden hose. Be sure to clean between the filter’s pleats to get all the dirt out.

Pressure washing using a garden hose usually does the job, although you can use a filter cleaner product for stubborn dirt. Rinse the cartridge thoroughly before putting it back in. After latching in the filter, turn the pool system back on and release any excess air using the relief valve. Keep the valve open until it sprays a steady stream of water.

Cartridge pool filters must be cleaned every two to six weeks.

How to Clean a Sand Filter

You can clean sand filters in two ways: backwashing or chemical cleaning. Backwashing is the easier method, although you do need to do a full chemical cleaning at least once a year.

Backwashing means unclogging the filter by sending water in the “out” end and out through the “in” end. It’s a quick and easy cleaning method because all you have to do is set the filter to “backwash” and it will begin to clean itself.

A full chemical cleaning is similar to backwashing, but with extra steps. Backwash the filter for three to five minutes before pouring in sand filter cleaner into the strainer basket. You need to leave the cleaner in the filter and the pump off overnight. Once that’s done, backwash the filter again for at least three minutes to remove any leftover dirt.

Most sand filters need to be backwashed every four weeks or once the pressure reading reaches eight to 10 pounds per square inch (PSI) above the normal level.

swimming pool

How to Clean a D.E. Filter

The D.E. filter cleaning process combines that of a sand and a cartridge filter. First, you need to backwash it for three to five minutes to remove most of the dirt inside. Then, remove all the grids and the manifold of the filter so you can clean them individually. You can use a D.E. filter cleaner if the manifold is filthy.

Muriatic acid is also great for cleaning D.E. filters because it helps balance the water’s pH and alkalinity levels. Dilute the muriatic acid with water then use the solution to soak the manifold overnight.

The next day, rinse the filter grids to flush out all the dirt and cleaner. Reassemble the grids back into the filter tank.

Just like sand filters, D.E. filters also need to be cleaned when the pressure level exceeds the normal rate by 8 PSI.

Regular Pool Filter Cleaning

Your pool’s water sanitation depends largely on its filter, so be sure to clean it thoroughly to ensure a safe swimming experience for your family. Cleaning your pool filter regularly also prolongs its lifespan and increases its efficiency, saving you more money in the long run.

If you need help with cleaning your filter or any other pool equipment, Clark County Pool & Lawn is here to assist you. We offer a range of residential pool cleaning and maintenance services in Las Vegas.

With Clark County Pool & Lawn, you and your family can make the most of your pool without worrying about maintenance-related issues.

Fill out our online form to request a free estimate.