What does a Filter Do?
Your filter is the heart of your pool's circulatory system. The Filter takes the water being circulated and cleans it of debris. These can include dirt, dust, and other particles that enter your pool. When these types of debris build up and prevent the proper flow of your filter, problems will arise intern.
What are the Different Types?
With many different types of filters on the market, it is important to know which one you use. The three main types of filters are Cartridge, Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.), and Sand. Cartridge Filters use fine fabric fins like an air filter. D.E. filters use a fine powder made from fossilized diatoms. The sand filters use silica sand to filter your water.
| Filter Type | What’s Inside | Performance Quality (Micron Rating) | Ease of Cleaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cartridge Filter | Pleated polyester cartridges | ★★★★☆ – Filters particles down to 10–15 microns for excellent clarity | Easy – Remove cartridges and hose off; deep clean as needed |
| Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) Filter | Grids coated with D.E. powder (fossilized diatoms) | ★★★★★ – Filters particles down to 2–5 microns, giving crystal-clear water | Moderate – Backwash, then add new D.E. powder; periodic full clean required |
| Sand Filter | Special pool-grade silica sand or glass media | ★★☆☆☆ – Filters particles down to 20–40 microns (great for large debris) | Moderate – Simple valve rotation to backwash; sand replacement every few years |
How often should you Clean/Backwash?
When deciding if it is time to clean your Filters, make sure to follow these rules.
- Cartridge Filters, every 3 months for a full deep cleaning
- D.E. Filters, backwash when the psi is 8-10 above the normal range, and a full teardown every 6 months
- Sand Filters, backwash when the psi is 8-10 above the normal range, and replace the sand every 3-5 years.
Signs of a Dirty Filter
Here are some signs that indicate it's time to clean your filters.
- Reduced water flow or Jet flow: These can be signs that your filters are getting clogged, not allowing for the correct movement of your water. As well as having a low suction, which can be a sign of a lack of circulation
- High Filter Psi: When the pressure is 8-10 psi above the normal readings, this can indicate that the filter is full and needs a backwash.
- Cloudy or Dull Water: If your pool becomes cloudy or dull and the chemistry is all correct, then a cleaning is needed because your filter isn't trapping the particles correctly.
- After Heavy Rain or Use: Heavy rainstorms bring in lots of debris and can overfill your filter. As well as heavy use, which can lead to a surge in debris rapidly clogging your filter.
- Excessive Noise from Pump/Equipment: If you hear an abnormal sound or a loudened sound coming from your pump, this can be a sign that your equipment is struggling to circulate the water through a clogged filter.
Consequences of a Prolonged Dirty Filter
Filter maintenance is a key aspect when ensuring the life and longevity of your pool and its equipment. Having a dirty filter that goes unmaintained will have dire consequences on your pool, most notably.
You'll have excessive chemical use do to the lack of circulation and organic buildup within the filter. Negative effects on the skimmer drain. As well as pump damage, including excessive motor strain, increased pressure across the pump and plumbing, which will cause cracking and leakage. It will also damage the filter itself, resulting in a replacement.
A Clean Filter is Essential
The key to a healthy and clean pool is your Filter. Stay ahead of build-up, protect your equipment from premature wear, and keep your pool sparkling with the care your Filter deserves.
Need assistance or have further questions? Contact Us, and we will give our professional service to help better your pool.