The central element of a healthy swimming pool is a clean pool filter. With a good filter, the water is always clear, fresh and safe to all people who jump in. However, most pool owners do not know how to clean a pool filter, when to do it and even how the different types of filters should be handled.
It might not be as easy to clean pool filters as it might sound initially but once you know the ropes then cleaning filters will be another routine of your Weekly Pool Maintenance. And to help you clean your pool filter, this blog presents a guide and steps that are easy to follow.
Why Cleaning Pool Filters Matters
The filter is always snaring dirt, leaves, oils and sunscreen residues, hair and other minute particles floating over the water. As time goes on, the accumulation blocks the system and prevents the flow of water to move easily.
When the filter gets dirty:
- The pool water looks cloudy
- The pump has to work harder
- The chemical balance gets disturbed
- Algae grows faster
- Electricity bills increase
So keeping a regular routine of pool filter clean is not just optional, it’s necessary for a healthy pool.
Types of Pool Filters and How to Clean Them
Not all filters are the same. The cleaning method depends on the type you have.
1. Cartridge Pool Filters
Cartridge filters are common because they are easy to remove and clean. If you’re wondering how to clean a pool filter cartridge, here’s the simplest way:
- Turn off the pump and release any built-up pressure.
- Remove the cartridge from the housing.
- Rinse it gently using a garden hose. Spray between the pleats to push out dirt.
- If the filter looks oily or very dirty, soak it in a filter cleaning solution overnight.
- Rinse again and let it dry before inserting it back.
Cartridge filters can be cleaned and reused multiple times before replacement, which makes them economical.
2. Sand Pool Filters
Sand filters work by trapping dirt inside the layers of sand. They need backwashing and occasional sand replacement.
Backwashing the Sand Filter
Backwashing is the most common method of cleaning pool filters of this type.
- Turn the valve to the “Backwash” position.
- Run the pump until the water in the sight glass looks clean.
- Switch the valve to “Rinse” for about 20 seconds.
- Return the valve to the “Filter” setting.
Changing Sand in Pool Filter
Sometimes, backwashing isn’t enough, especially when the sand becomes too fine or compact. In that case, changing sand in pool filter is needed every 3–5 years.
Just a quick idea of the process:
- Remove the old sand carefully.
- Clean the tank with water.
- Add new pool-grade sand.
- Reassemble the filter and run the pump.
3. DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters
DE filters give the finest filtration, but they also require the most work. To clean them:
- Backwash the filter
- Open the tank
- Remove the grids and rinse them
- Recoat them with fresh DE powder
Step Guide: How to Clean a Pool Filter (Any Type)
Here is a general, simple process you can follow for pool filter clean:
Step 1: Turn Off the Pool Pump
Never clean the filter while the system is running.
Step 2: Release Pressure
Open the air relief valve on the filter tank.
Step 3: Remove the Filter
Depending on your filter type (cartridge, sand, DE), take out the parts that need washing.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Use a garden hose to rinse dirt, leaves, and debris.
Step 5: Deep Clean (If Needed)
For cartridges, soak in a cleaning solution.
For sand filters, perform a backwash.
For DE filters, clean the grids.
Step 6: Inspect for Damage
Look for cracks, tears, or worn-out parts.
Step 7: Reassemble the Filter
Put everything back properly and tighten the lid or valve.
Step 8: Restart the Pump
Turn the system on and check for pressure issues.
Step 9: Check Water Flow
The water should now move smoothly through the system.
Step 10: Add Cleaning to Weekly Pool Maintenance
Regular care saves a lot of effort later.
How Often Should You Clean Pool Filters?
In general:
- Cartridge filters: every 2–4 weeks
- Sand filters: backwash once every 3–4 weeks
- DE filters: once a month, plus recharging the DE powder
But it also depends on:
- Weather
- Number of swimmers
- Surrounding trees
- Pool usage
If the water looks cloudy or the pressure gauge shows a rise of 8–10 PSI, it’s time to clean immediately.
FAQs
1. What’s the best way to clean pool filters?
The best method depends on the filter type:
- Cartridge → rinse + soak
- Sand → backwash
- DE → backwash + rinse grids
But the core idea is the same: remove dirt so water flows properly.
2. How often should pool filters be cleaned?
Most filters need cleaning every 2–4 weeks, but heavy use or rainy weather may require more frequent cleaning. Watch the pressure gauge, when it rises, it’s cleaning time.
3. Can pool filters be cleaned and reused?
Yes!
- Cartridge filters can be reused several times until the pleats wear out.
- Sand filters reuse the sand for years before replacement.
- DE filters reuse their grids but need fresh DE powder every time you backwash.
4. Does a magic eraser in the pool pump really clean the pool?
Many people on the internet keep saying that if you put a magic eraser in the skimmer basket, it somehow catches dirt or some oils from the water. But there is no real proper test or proper proof for this idea, so it is not something recommended. Sometimes it might do a little bit on the surface grime, but it still cannot replace the actual pool filter clean work or the chemicals that are needed when cleaning pool filters. So it is better to just treat it like a small harmless trick people talk about, and not as a cleaning method you should trust.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to clean a pool filter becomes one of the main things when someone owns a pool because without this the pool does not stay clear. Once you follow the simple steps and keep your Weekly Pool Maintenance going in a regular way, then the water mostly remains safe and looks better too.
Cleaning pool filters can seem a bit uncomfortable or even slow in the beginning, and sometimes the first attempt feels like you are not sure if you are doing it right. Contact DB Pool & Spa, if you want professional help with cleaning pool filters.
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