It’s easy to spot leaves floating along water surfaces or debris that’s sunken down to the bottom of the pool but it can be tough to pinpoint issues happening behind the scenes. Pool filters are the unsung heroes of any and all swimming pools. The filtration system is vital to keeping your swim space clean and running smoothly but they often go overlooked or don’t get the attention that they deserve. If you’re unfamiliar with the best time to clean your pool filter or what to watch out for Puddle technicians have got you covered!
What Makes Pool Filters So Important?
Pool filters do a lot of heavy lifting when it comes to both water quality and water flow in swimming pools. Pool filters are designed to trap and hold small bits and pieces of debris that haven’t been skimmed out of pool water. Without regular cleaning filters will become clogged up with unwanted items and it will start to have a ripple effect throughout your water system.
If you don’t clean your pool filter cartridges debris will start to layer up on itself. When this happens it’s more difficult for water to push through the layers of dirt and debris. Pool pumps will have to work harder to circulate treated water. Pool pumps are already under constant strain and a clogged filter will make it worse. It won’t take long for this wear and tear to cause damage to internal systems. Pool repairs and replacements are expensive but replacing your filter cartridge isn’t!
Cleaning Your Pool Filters: When & How
Now that you know how important pool filters are to your swim space it’s time to review the signs that it’s time to clean your filtration system. Return lines should be flushed with every cleaning (weekly in the spring/summer and bi-weekly in fall/winter). It is always a good idea to check the condition of your filters, making sure not to go too long without a thorough cleaning or routine replacement.
Cartridge Filters: The majority of swimming pools utilize cartridge filters. These are quick and simple to install, assess and replace as necessary. On average a standard cartridge will last approximately 2,000 working hours or the equivalent of 2-4 years. This type of filter should be removed, cleaned and reinstalled every 2-4 months. Over time cartridge filters will start to show signs of fraying or tears. This is an indicator that they should be fully replaced. Over time a cartridge will begin to show physical signs of wear and damage. It is important to perform a visual inspection with every cleaning. When you start to see physical signs of damage it’s time to replace your pool filter cartridge.
Sand Filters: Unlike cleaning your filter cartridge dealing with a sand filter is a much more involved process. These filters will hold hundreds of pounds of sand at any given time. It’s not as easy as sifting through the sand to see whether or not it needs to be changed. Instead, Puddle technicians use the pressure gauge to decide whether or not it is time to empty out tanks and swap out the old sand for new stuff. If the filter pressure is too high it is a sure-sign that you should call an expert. If you backwash your system regularly, use swimming pools seasonally or infrequently you can expect the sand to last a bit longer. On the higher end sand filters can go between 3-7 years but it is more common to expect a full emptying and replacement around the 5 year mark.
Pool Filter Cleanings: The Puddle Difference
Whether you are looking to clean the filter on an outdoor swimming pool or an indoor model, all you have to do is call a local Puddle Pro! Our team of experts have years of industry experience under their belts. During that time we’ve got basic and specialized pool care treatments down to a science. When you’re in the market for efficient filter changes just call Puddle!
Cartridge cleanings and replacements as well as sand filter cleanings can be part of a routine pool cleaning plan or a one-off service. The best way to keep your swimming pool running smoothly and avoid expensive damage is with routine maintenance. Trying to handle specialist treatments on your own can result in serious damage and even injury. Lifting hundreds of pounds of sand isn’t easy! Don’t pull your back or find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a DIY disaster when you can call Puddle instead!
Instead of just stopping by to clean the cartridge Puddle technicians will inspect the surrounding areas as well. If you want to learn more about the best way to care for your swimming pool, ask about our Pool School services or better yet, unload the heavy lifting by scheduling a routine cleaning program that can carry your swim space all year long!
