How Often to Clean Pool Filter: Complete Guide

If you notice that your pool water appears cloudy, even though you regularly maintain it, it may be due to a problem with your pool filter. Maybe your filter isn’t cleaned enough, as it could be clogged. It’s essential to clean and maintain your filter regularly to get clear water. This blog highlights the most common signs your filter needs cleaning and how often to clean the pool filter. You will also learn about the practical and tried-and-tested tips to keep your pool crystal clear.

How Often Should You Clean Each Filter Type? 

Pool filters are of three types: cartridge, sand, and DE. Each filter has a unique cleaning frequency and replacement need.

Cartridge Filter

You should clean cartridge filters every 2 to 6 weeks, especially during the swimming season. If you wonder how to clean a pool filter cartridge, you can do this by checking the pressure gauge. Clean the filter only when the pressure is 8-10 psi above the normal operating level. If your pool witnesses heavy debris like leaves or pollen, you may clean it more frequently.

Sand Filters

Wondering when to backwash the sand filter? You should backwash sand filters every 1 to 2 months, and when the pressure gauge is 8-10 psi above the normal level. If backwashing doesn’t restore water flow, you may replace the filter, typically every 3 to 5 years.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters

You should backwash DE filters monthly and when the pressure gauge shows 8-10 psi above normal. Once you backwash the filter, add a fresh DE powder. You need to deeply clean the filter at least once or twice a year.

Signs Your Pool Filter Needs Cleaning 

If your pool filter shows the following signs, you need to clean it. You should not ignore these warning signs because they may damage your pool equipment and affect water quality.

• Cloudy or murky water
• Reduced water flow
• High-pressure gauge readings
• Pool debris

Factors Affecting Cleaning Frequency 

The pool should be cleaned depending on various factors. For example, if the pool is used often, then it will need to be cleaned more often. Tree debris or pollen collects around the pool, and you clean it straight away. After a heavy storm, cleaning the pool is necessary to avoid debris settling. You may clean your pool, which is more often in summer and less in winter, as pools are not used much during winter.

Generally, frequent pool cleaning means that the pool does not regularly need to be cleaned or the pool filter changed. It is better to use a robotic pool cleaner, which makes pool cleaning better and easier.

Pro Tips for Pool Filter Maintenance 

While you should regularly clean your pool filter, there are some tips that can make your job more effective. 

1. Check pool pressure gauges weekly. See if they are at the normal operating level. You should clean the filter only when the gauges show the pressure 8-10 psi above the normal level.

2. Always keep spare filters like DE, sand, or cartridge filters. This way, you can quickly replace the filters without allowing the pool’s condition to worsen.

3. You should set a deep clean pool maintenance schedule at least before the peak swimming season. This way, you will prepare your pool for heavy use, and it won’t affect water quality.

4. You may use the Dreame Z1 Pro robotic pool cleaner to clean the pool conveniently. Set the cleaning time of your choice via the app so you can make your pool ready whenever you need.

Keep Your Pool Sparkling with Smart Maintenance

You should prioritize pool maintenance. If you maintain your pool regularly but still see cloudy water, the problem could be your filter. You must clean and replace your pool filter if necessary. You should clean the cartridge filter every 2-6 weeks, sand filter every 1-2 months, and backwash DE filters monthly. You are advised to deep clean your pool 1 or 2 times yearly. 

It’s important to monitor the pool’s pressure gauges and see if they are 8–10 psi above the normal range. They may need adjustment depending on factors like pool usage or environmental debris.

Pool maintenance has become hassle-free due to robotic pool cleaners. Consider the Dreame Z1 Pro robotic pool cleaner for your pool job. It efficiently removes debris, cleans water, and reduces the strain on the pool filter. You can also set the cleaning time of your choice and let the robot do its job.

You should invest in Dreame robotic pool cleaners if you want fast and effortless pool maintenance, and keep checking your pool’s filter pressure gauge. Ready for a hassle-free pool? Discover Dreame’s robotic pool cleaners here!

Did you find this guide interesting? Share it with the pool owners in your circle.