If you have a swimming pool you will already know that the filter is a fundamental element in the water filtration system. This is responsible for keeping the pool water clean and safe for use.
Its main function is to eliminate impurities and particles suspended in the water, such as leaves, insects, dust, hair and microorganisms, so that the water remains crystal clear and free of contaminants.
The pool filter operation It is based on a three-stage process:
- Capture: Pool water is sucked through skimmers and sumps, and then heads towards the filter. At this stage, the pool filter filter element traps solid particles suspended in the water as it passes.
- Cleaning: The trapped particles accumulate and to maintain their effectiveness, it is necessary to perform cleaning the filter periodically. We explain how to do it below!
- Return: Once the filter has been cleaned, the filtered water is returned to the pool, now free of impurities. This process is repeated continuously to maintain the pool water quality.
As you can see, a pool filter plays an essential role in purifying water, helping to keep it clean. For this, proper maintenance of the filter is crucial and from Pools and Products we are going to tell you what types of filters you can find and how to clean the most common ones.
Types of pool filters
There are several types of pool filters available on the market, each with its own characteristics and advantages. The choice will depend on factors such as the size of the pool or the budget.
Consult with a pool professional can help you make the right decision and ensure your pool stays in optimal condition all season long. In Pools and Products We can help you and we will be happy to answer any questions.
sand filters
The pool sand filters They are the most popular. They work with a tank filled with silica sand, which acts as a filter medium. The water passes through the sand, trapping particles and leaving the water clean. They can treat large quantities of water.
Diatom filters
The diatom pool filters They use a microscopic fossilized filter agent, an extremely fine natural material. This provides a most efficient filtration, capturing even the smallest particles.
However, they require a maintenance more thorough and recharge periodic of the earth, but they provide a exceptional water filtration.
Cartridge filters
The pool cartridge filters They use, as their name indicates, cartridges as filter media. Water flows through this medium, where impurities are retained.
They are ideal for swimming pools small to medium size and removable pools. Plus, they are easy to maintain and clean.
Cyclonic filters
The operation of the cyclone pool filters is based on the creation of a high-speed cyclone that generates a centrifugal force, which causes heavier particles to separate from the main flow and accumulate at the bottom of the device.
They are intended to be used before main filter of the pool.
How to clean the pool filter: The most common
Cleaning the pool sand filter
In the case of the sand filter cleaning, it must be taken into account that there are two phases: washing and rinsing.
To know when you have to clean it, you should look at the filter pressure gauge, which will indicate its state in terms of dirt.
Once you mark that the filter needs to be cleaned, perform the following steps:
- For the treatment plant, for safety, disconnect the power before doing any work. Subsequently, check that the drain cocks are open, open the sump and skimmer cocks and place the valve in the filtering position.
- Turn on the pump and let it run for a few minutes to expel dirty particles from the filter.
- Turn off the pump to stop 1st phase completed (wash)
- To continue with the 2nd phase, turn the valve to the "Rinse" position.
- Turn on the pump and let it work for a few seconds. This helps clarify the water and ensures there is no waste of dirt in the filter that can return to the pool.
- Once you have completed these two phases, return the selector valve to filter position.
Cleaning the pool cartridge filter
As in the case of sand filters, pool cartridge filters have a manometer which indicates when cleaning is necessary. We tell you what are the cleaning steps of this type of filter:
- Before you begin, make sure turn off the pool pump. This is essential for security reasons.
- Release pressure from the filter to remove the cap and remove the cartridge. When you have it, check that it has no damage. If it has any breakage, it would have to be replaced.
- Use a garden hose to rinse the cartridge and make sure to leave it completely clean.
- Let the filter dry well to place it back inside the purifier tank.
- Finally, return to activate the filtration system.
If you want to stay up to date with news, tips and tutorials to keep your pool in perfect condition, you can find more useful content on our blog.