Filter Cleaning
COST: $105 PER CLEANING | CARTRIDGE FILTER
COST: $125 PER CLEANING | D.E. (diatomaceous earth) FILTER
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How Often Should Your Pool Filter Be Cleaned
Review the best practices for your type of filter below.
Diatomaceous Earth aka D.E. Filter: Diatomaceous Earth is a special and impressive powder that can filter down to 3-5 microns. You should use special cleaners on this one at least once every season, or twice a year. Be sure to conduct a full cleaning and inspection yearly. In regard to backwashing, the pressure gauge will help you decide when its time. The more debris that builds up in the filter, the higher the pressure. Once the clean filter has built up about 5-10 psi (takes about 3-6 months for DE filters), it’s usually time for a backwash. Again, be sure not to over backwash in order to avoid algae problems. Also, be sure to always add fresh D.E. after each backwash or else damage will occur.
Cartridge Filter: How often you clean this type of filter really depends on how often the pool is used and how big the filter is. These are usually cleaned every 2-4 months as a part of regular maintenance. For deep cleanings, a good rule of thumb is when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above the standard starting pressure (pressure when you put the clean filter in). Cleaning this filter is slightly different, since you cannot backwash with a cartridge filter, so it is best to have this done by a professional.
Sand Filter: Backwashing frequently, minimum of once per month, is best since this backwashing and replacing your sand are the only two ways to clean this type of filter. Be sure not to over backwash as that can lead to issues with algae due to the amount of chemicals being removed from the water as you backwash.