While most people know that a filter is a key component of a swimming pool’s filtration system, quite a few do not realize that the filter needs to be cleaned periodically to insure proper equipment performance and cleanliness of the pool water.
When your filter was new the water could easily pass through it – the pounds of pressure per square inch (psi) shown on the filter’s pressure gauge probably reads somewhere around 8 to 25 psi, depending on your pool and plumbing set up.
As the filter does its job, the debris in the water accumulates in the filter. The filter slowly gets clogged with debris and the pressure rises. When the pressure rises by 25% over your starting pressure it’s time to clean out the debris that has been collected by the filter so you have room to catch any new debris that enters the pool.
Failure to keep the pressure in the normal range can greatly reduce your water flow, resulting in cloudy water, poor circulation and excessive wear on the pool equipment.
How long you can go between backwashings/cleanings of the filter varies quite a bit from pool to pool. It depends on the relative size of the filter and the pool. Some pool owners need to clean their filters weekly, while others can go an entire season without needing to clean the filter.
It is always a good idea to clean the filter at least once a year, even if the pressure doesn’t go up.
Cartridge
To clean a cartridge filter, the pump must be turned off. If the filter is below the water level of the pool, there should be valves that have to be closed to prevent the pool from draining when the filter is opened.
Sand
Sand filters will have either a push/pull main valve or a multiple position valve (multiport) for cleaning the debris trapped by the sand.
DE
DE filters come in 2 varieties, the first makes use of a push/pull or multiport valve for the cleaning. With this kind of DE filter, the cleaning procedure is exactly the same as cleaning a sand filter. The only difference is that much of the DE is removed along with the dirt, and therefore you have to add more after cleaning the filter (sand is not removed when backwashing, so doesn’t need to be replaced).
Once in a while it is necessary to open up a DE filter and do a much more through cleaning.
Whichever type filter you have, remember to keep an eye on the pressure gauge and perform the backwashings/cleanings as needed.
That way, you never encounter poor filtration, cloudy water nor costly equipment repair/replacement.
It only takes a few minutes a month to keep the filter working perfectly, prevent these issues, and allow you to enjoy a Trouble Free Pool!
No matter the type of swimming pool filter you have, CALL 727-353-0777 or send a message to the professionals at SAINT PETE POOL CLEANING. We'll clean and maintain your filter, to extend the life of your pool equipment and keep your water clear.
