Keeping your pool sparkling clean isn't just about skimming the surface; it also involves regular maintenance of the pool's heart—the filter. A clean filter is crucial for maintaining water quality and ensuring the longevity of your pool equipment. In this guide, we'll explain why regular cleaning is essential and help you identify whether you have a cartridge or a sand filter. Then, we'll provide you with a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to clean each type of filter effectively.
Why Cleaning Your Pool Filter is Important
The filter is responsible for removing impurities from your pool water, such as dirt, leaves, and even small debris. Over time, these impurities can clog the filter, reducing its efficiency. If not cleaned regularly, a clogged filter can lead to cloudy pool water and put extra strain on your pool pump, potentially leading to costly repairs. Regular cleaning ensures your pool remains healthy, clear, and inviting.
Identifying Your Pool Filter Type
Before you start cleaning, it's important to know which type of filter your pool uses. The two most common types are:
Cartridge Filters: These sit inside a vertical plastic tube that captures dirt and debris using a fine porous cartridge. They are easy to maintain and are known for their energy efficiency.
Sand Filters: Sand filters are a large sphere filled with sand to filter out impurities. When water flows through the sand, debris and particles are trapped in the tiny gaps between the sand.
How to Clean a Cartridge Filter
1. Turn Off the Pump
Always start by turning off the pool pump and any power supply to ensure safety.
2. Remove the Cartridge
Open the filter housing according to the manufacturer's instructions and carefully remove the cartridge.
3. Rinse the Cartridge
Use a garden hose to wash off the debris from the cartridge. Spray between the pleats to remove any trapped dirt. Avoid using high-pressure nozzles as they can damage the filter media.
4. Soak if Necessary
For a deeper clean, soak the cartridge in a filter cleaner solution or a mixture of water and muriatic acid for at least a few hours (preferably overnight).
5. Rinse Again and Reassemble
After soaking, rinse the cartridge thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual cleaning solution. Place the cartridge back in the housing and secure it.
6. Restart the Pump
Turn on the filtration system and open the air relief valve to release the excess air. Always leave the valve open until a steady stream of water sprays out of the valve.
How to Clean a Sand Filter
1. Backwash setting
To backwash, turn off the pump, move the valve to ‘backwash’ setting, then turn the pump back on for 1-2 minutes.
2. Rinse Setting
After backwashing, turn the pump off and set the valve to ‘rinse’ setting and turn the pump on for 1 minute.
3. Restart the System
Turn the pump off, put the valve back to filter and ensure all settings are back to normal before turning the pump back on.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning of your pool filter is not just a part of routine maintenance; it's essential for the health of your swimming pool and its users. Whether you have a cartridge or sand filter, keeping it clean ensures efficient filtration, clear water, and reduced risk of equipment issues. Mark your calendar for regular cleanings or leave it to us with our range or flexible montly service packages.
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