Mar 27, 2024

Spring Into Cleaning Your Filter

Spring Into Cleaning Your Filter
Tony
Spring Into Cleaning Your Filter

Spring Into Cleaning Your Filter

Howdy, pool pals! Spring is sprung and there is more pollen and opportunities for algae to grow. We are excited to see our customers this spring for their annual (or quarterly) filter cleans. You can call us at the office to schedule at 817-788-0744.

Now, let’s learn something about our filters that keep our pool clear!

Why Filters Matter:

There are 3 basics to maintaining the clarity of your pool. You’ve got to clean your pool of debris. By cleaning out the basics, vacuuming and skimming the pool to keep it clean. Chemical balance is equally important. You’ve got to maintain the perfect balance of pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels. However, the unsung hero of the 3 basics is filtration. Filters are like the invisible cleaners, working hard to keep your water fresh and ready for splashing. 

  • De Filter is 1-3 micron filtration
  • Cartridge Filter is 10-15 micron filtration
  • Sand Filter is 25-30 micron filtration

Understanding Filter Types:

There are 3 main types of filters we will see in the pool industry. The different pool filter types refer to the media in which they use to filter bacterial, plant material, and other microscopic particles in the water leading to cloudy or unsanitized water.

  • Cartridge Filters:some text
    • Renowned for their user-friendliness and suitability for water conservation.
    • Requires 1.5 hours for every 10 degrees of run time, Run time is a bit more than the others, which could be more expensive electricity costs over time
    • Typical use is well suited for most pools. Keep in mind that if your pool typically requires more run time in the hotter months versus DE filter.
  • DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters:some text
    • Exemplifying superior filtration capabilities, adept at capturing minute particles.
    • Requires 8 hours of run time typically, depending on the gallons in your pool
    • Typical use is suited for residential areas without restrictions on DE in water waste
  • Sand Filters:some text
    • Praised for their durability and versatility, catering to a wide spectrum of pool sizes.
    • Requires 24 hours of run time typically, depending on the gallons of your pool
    • Typical use is better suited in commercial properties OR in areas where the pump runs 24/7 or possible abuse of filter.

Frequency of Maintenance for Spring Cleaning:

As we embark on the seasonal tradition of spring cleaning, meticulous attention to filtration maintenance is paramount:

  • Cartridge Filters: should be cleaned every 3 months and cartridges replaced every 2 years.
  • DE Filters: need to be backwashed every 4-6 weeks and recharged with DE after every backwash. Filter should be taken apart and cleaned 1-2 per year depending on size of filter vs the size of the pool. No age limit on grids.some text
    • Typically 1.5HP Pumps and lower require 48* DE Filter
    • Typically 2HP Pumps or more require 60 * DE Filter
    • 50,000 Gallons and greater, seek guidance of a pool expert
  • Sand Filters: Promote regular backwashing every 1-2 weeks as there filter media is permanent.. Every 5 years, a sand change will be required

Thanks for reading our guide to pool filters. Keep 'em clean, and your pool will be the coolest spot in the neighborhood.