Keep a filter cleaning schedule
A dirty filter drives up your electric bill and masks water quality issues.
What you'll learn
- The pressure gauge rule: 8–10 psi above clean = time to clean
- Cartridge vs sand vs DE, each on its own cleaning schedule
- Why a pressure washer damages cartridge pleats
- If your filter gauge won't move, swap it out
Step by step
- Check the pressure gauge right after a clean filter install, note the number.
- Once pressure climbs 8–10 psi above that reading, it's time to clean.
- Cartridge: shut off the pump, open the housing, hose down the pleats (skip the pressure washer).
- Sand filters: run BACKWASH for 2–3 minutes, then RINSE 30 seconds, switch back to FILTER.
- Backwash first, then pour fresh DE into the skimmer according to spec.
Safety note
If the pressure gauge stays frozen in place, it's stuck and needs replacing. Operating a filter with no functioning gauge means you're flying blind.
Prefer to let a professional take care of it?
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