Whether you’ve recently installed a new pool or you’re planning on a future one, there are important maintenance tips you need to know. Proper maintenance ensures that your pool is clean, the water is safe to swim in, and that your pool’s structure and equipment are working properly. New pool owners may be unsure of how to clean their pool filters. Cleaning your pool filter is vital to ensuring the cleanliness of your water and to keep out nasty bacteria and parasites, such as algae.
There are three different types of pool filters: cartridge filters, sand filters, and diatomaceous earth. Each pool filter requires different cleaning methods. For this article, our pool experts at Summerhill Pools will review how to effectively clean your cartridge pool filter!
Equipment You Will Need
Before you extract your pool filter cartridge, gather the necessary tools to clean it. Here are the items that our experts highly recommend:
- Garden hose
- Spray nozzle
- Filter cleaner
- A 5-gallon bucket
- Lubricant (which can be bought at your nearest pool equipment store)
- Replacement O-ring (You may not need this, but it is good to have it on hand)
- Replacement filter cartridge (Again, you may not need this, but it is good to have just in case.)
- Owner’s Manual for your filter (Not all cartridge filters are the same, so it is important to know where things are located.)
Cleaning Your Filter Cartridge
There are several steps to follow when to properly clean your pool filter. Not to worry though, the experts at Summerhill Pools are here to help walk you through it:
1. Removing Air from the Filter System
First, turn off the pool pump and filter system. Next, locate the filter systems air relief valve. (For most pool filters, this valve is located on the top of the filter. If it isn’t, consult the owner’s manual to locate it.)
2. Removing the Filter from the System
To remove the filter from the holding chamber, unlock the clamps or other latching devices holding it in place. Carefully remove the top filter and then the cartridge.
Before you clean the filter cartridge, inspect it to ensure that it is in good condition. You don’t want to clean a filter cartridge you can’t use. Replace the filter if you notice signs of cracking or tearing.
3. Cleaning the Filter Cartridge
Using the spray nozzle on your garden hose, carefully spray down the cartridge. Take extra care to get between the pleats. If your filter cartridge is really dirty, you may need to use a filter cleaner.
Mix the filter cleaner in the bucket and place the cartridge inside the solution to soak overnight to break down dirt and grime.
4. Checking the O-Ring
While the filter soaks, check the O-ring located on the filter tank. Check for signs of dry-rotting or wear and tear. If necessary, replace the O-ring. Apply lubricant around the O-ring to ensure that it remains in tip-top shape.
5. Replacing the Filter Cartridge
Rinse the filter cartridge thoroughly to remove dirt or residue. Next, carefully return the cartridge to the filter and check that all of the locking mechanisms are tight and in place.
Finally, install the filter top and lock it securely with the clamps.
6. Turning Your Filter System Back On
Before you turn the system back on, open the air relief valve so excess air doesn’t cause pressure to build up and damage the system. To ensure that all of the excess air has escaped the system, wait until a steady stream of water is spraying from the relief valve before you close it.
7. Checking the System Pressure
Check that the system’s pressure is in the normal range and prevent a future problem. If the PSI is off, you may have put the filter back together incorrectly.
Still unsure how to clean your pool filter? Is the PSI still incorrect? Are you looking for an experienced team to help you build the pool of your dreams? Your trusted pool experts at Summerhill Pools can help! Our team has been building and helping the people of DFW maintain their pools since 1989. Experience, passion, and commitment are what have driven our team to be the trusted name in pool maintenance, installation, and remodeling over the years. Contact us today for more information on our services and to schedule a consultation today!
