🧼 How to Maintain Your Pool Filter (And Why It Matters)

Your pool filter is like the kidneys of your swimming pool—it quietly works behind the scenes to keep your water clean, clear, and safe. But without regular maintenance, it can quickly become clogged, ineffective, and even damage your equipment. The good news? A little routine care goes a long way.

🔍 Why Pool Filter Maintenance Is Essential

• Keeps your water crystal clear

• Prevents algae blooms and cloudy water

• Extends the life of your pump and chlorinator

• Reduces strain on your energy bills

• Avoids expensive repair or replacement costs

🧃 Types of Pool Filters (and How to Care for Each)

1. Cartridge Filters

These are common in residential pools for their easy upkeep.

Maintenance Steps:

• Turn off the pump and release pressure.

• Remove the cartridge and rinse thoroughly with a hose (fan nozzle works best).

• Soak in cartridge cleaner every 3–6 months to break down oils and fine debris.

• Replace the cartridge every 1–2 years (or as needed).

Tip: Rinse when the pressure gauge reads 8–10 PSI above normal.

2. Sand Filters

These use specially graded sand to trap dirt and debris.

Maintenance Steps:

• Backwash the filter when pressure increases by 8–10 PSI.

• Set valve to ‘Backwash’, then run the pump for 2–3 minutes until water runs clear.

• Follow with a ‘Rinse’ cycle for 30 seconds.

• Replace sand every 5 years, or earlier if water isn’t staying clean.

Pro Tip: Use a sand filter cleaner every season to refresh the media.

3. Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters

Top-notch filtration—great for fine particles, but higher maintenance.

Maintenance Steps:

• Backwash like a sand filter.

• After backwashing, recharge with DE powder via the skimmer.

• Deep clean grids 1–2 times per year.

• Replace internal grids every few years depending on wear.

📅 How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Filter?

Watch for signs: cloudy water, reduced suction, or noisy pump = time to clean.

🧰 General Filter Maintenance Tips

• Keep a record of your normal PSI (check after a clean so you know your baseline).

• Clean pump baskets and skimmer baskets weekly—they help your filter do less work.

• Always turn off power before opening the filter or pump housing.

• Don’t use high-pressure washers on cartridges—it can damage the pleats.

👨‍🔧 Need Help with a Filter Clean or Replacement?

We offer in-store filter servicing, onsite maintenance, and stock a full range of:

• Replacement cartridges 🌀

• Filter sand and glass media 🌫

• Filter cleaning solutions 💧

• DE powder and safety gear 🧤

At Pool Perfectionists, we make pool ownership easier and cleaner. Book a filter service or stop by for expert advice—your pool will thank you.