How to Clean and Maintain Your Pool Filter (and Why It Matters)
Your pool filter is the unsung hero of backyard fun. It works quietly behind the scenes, trapping debris, clearing cloudy water, and keeping your swimming experience fresh and healthy. But even heroes need a little help.
Regular filter maintenance is the key to clean, clear water and a system that runs efficiently for years to come. Whether you have a sand, cartridge, or DE filter, proper cleaning makes all the difference, and Pool911 is here to guide you through it.
Why Cleaning Your Filter Matters
Over time, oils, dirt, sunscreen, and tiny debris clog your filter media. This buildup reduces water flow, strains your pump, and causes your water to turn cloudy or green. A clean filter helps:
Keep water clear and free of contaminants
Maintain proper circulation and chemical balance
Reduce wear on pumps and other equipment
Lower long-term maintenance costs
Think of your filter as your pool’s lungs, if it’s dirty, the whole system starts to wheeze.
Step 1: Identify Your Filter Type
Before you start, confirm which type of filter you have:
Sand Filter: Water passes through a bed of sand that traps dirt and debris.
Cartridge Filter: Uses a pleated cartridge that filters fine particles without needing backwashing.
DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filter: The most precise system, using a fine powder coating to capture the smallest impurities.
Each one requires a slightly different cleaning process.
Step 2: The Basics of Cleaning Any Pool Filter
No matter the type, every filter needs three simple steps:
Turn off the system: Always cut power to the pump and relieve pressure from the filter before opening anything.
Rinse or backwash: Remove trapped dirt and debris using the appropriate method for your filter type (details below).
Inspect and repeat: Check for cracks, worn seals, or damaged parts before restarting your system.
Cleaning by Filter Type
Sand Filters
Backwash: Run the system in backwash mode for 3–5 minutes to flush out dirt.
Rinse: Switch to rinse mode for 30 seconds to settle the sand.
Replace sand: Every 3–5 years to maintain effectiveness.
Cartridge Filters
Remove the cartridge and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.
Deep clean: Soak it in a cartridge cleaning solution overnight every month or two.
Replace: Once a year or when pleats become soft or damaged.
DE Filters
Backwash: Reverse the flow for 2–3 minutes.
Remove and rinse grids: Use a hose to clear residue.
Recharge: Add fresh DE powder (per manufacturer instructions) through your skimmer while the pump runs.
Spotlight: Maintaining Hayward Filters
Hayward is one of the most trusted names in pool filtration, and for good reason. Their filters are known for reliability, performance, and durability. Here’s how to keep them in top shape:
For Hayward Cartridge Filters:
Open the clamp and remove the lid carefully.
Take out the cartridge and rinse from top to bottom.
Use Hayward’s Filter Cleaner Solution for a deep clean every 4–6 weeks.
Check and lubricate O-rings with silicone grease before reassembly.
For Hayward DE Filters:
Backwash according to the pressure gauge (usually every 4–6 weeks).
After backwashing, remove and rinse each grid individually.
Recharge with the correct DE amount listed on your model’s data tag.
For Hayward Sand Filters:
Backwash regularly and check for channeling (uneven sand levels).
Replace sand every 5 years for peak performance.
Proper Hayward filter maintenance ensures consistent water clarity and extends the lifespan of your system.
When to Call Pool911
If your water stays cloudy, your filter pressure keeps spiking, or you’re tired of juggling backwash valves and pressure gauges—let Pool911 take over.
Our experienced technicians:
Inspect, clean, and service all filter types (including Hayward systems)
Check seals, gauges, and fittings
Balance chemicals to protect your filtration system
Keep your water clear, clean, and swim-ready every week
Make Pool Care Effortless with Pool911
Don’t let dirty filters or chemical confusion steal your swim time. At Pool911, we handle everything from filter maintenance to full pool care, so you can focus on enjoying the water instead of worrying about it.
See why so many homeowners trust us to keep their pools crystal clear.