Why is it Important to Clean Your Pool Filters?

Is your pool murky and cloudy? A murky or cloudy pool may be due to the pool filter. The pool filter works to trap all of the dirt particles that find their way into the pool. There are three types of filters and they way each one works to trap dirt is different; therefore how and when to clean the pool filter is also different.

Sand filters are designed to trap particles whose size is 20-100 micron. As the more dirt collects, the filter has more power to collect more dirt. However, when the pressure reading shows 8-10 pounds more than the reading that appears at start-up when it unit is clean, is an indication that that it is time to clean the filter. Cleaning the filter is referred to as backwashing. This means that at a turn of a valve, water will flow through the filter backwards and release all of the dirt in the filter. If you find that you are backwashing every other week of so, it may be time for a new filter. If you find sand in the pool, there is more than likely a crack in the filter. You'll need to empty the tank, repair the crack, refill with fresh sand, and test the filter by backwashing again.

Sometimes sand filters will leak and allow water into the backwashing area. There are a variety of repairs that may be performed that range from simple adjustments to the handle to permanent repairs like spider gaskets. Since the filter works on the basis of sand, at some point you'll need to replace the sand. How you do this will depend on how much time you have. You can place a tarp underneath the unit, open the unit up and remove the assembly. Next turn on the pump and run for cover. The force of the water will remove any dirt and sand left. The other method is to open the drain hole and allow it to drain for several days. This is followed by removing the top dome or multiport valve.