One of the most important steps in keeping your pool clean is cleaning pool filters.
Your filter works hard to keep your pool clean and sanitary. But, if you fail to periodically clean your filter, dirt and debris can build up within.
When that happens, the filter's ability to is impaired and can become less effective. Fortunately, cleaning your filter usually takes very little time and effort. The key is to do it regularly.
By using a "backwashing" process once a week, you can remove most of the dirt that tries to build up within the filter.
Over time, however, debris can begin to collect on the removable filtering mechanisms. This is why occasional "deep cleaning" is required.
The three types of pool filters (sand, diatomaceous earth and cartridge) each require unique steps to clean them. This is due to each filter using a unique filtering process.
For example, a sand pool filter uses a bed of roughly-grained sand to keep dirt from staying in your pool. To clean this type of filter, you should plan to replace the sand every 5 - 7 years.
If you are using chlorine, you may only need to do so every 7 - 10 years.
Cleaning pool filters like Cartridge filters, on the other hand use a complex matrix within the cartridge to keep your pool clean. The main culprits that clog the cartridge are body oils, perspiration and chemicals.
There is no definite lifespan for a cartridge. Instead, cleaning or replacing the cartridge is usually determined by canister pressure. Most experts suggest cleaning the cartridge when the pressure reaches 8 - 10 PSI above the pressure of a new cartridge. However, if a tear appears in the matrix of the cartridge, you should consider replacing the cartridge.
Diatomaceous earth pool filters are generally the most effective. This type of system uses earth material that is specially-treated to filter out smaller particles than a sand or cartridge filter. However, cleaning this type of filter often requires more time and effort than the other filtering systems.
When the water is dirty, you may need to change the diatomaceous earth once a day. After the water has been properly cleaned, you should consider changing the earth material once every 30 days. In addition, the grids and filter assembly within a diatomaceous earth filter should be cleaned approximately once a year.
Cleaning your filtering system is a critical part of maintaining an immaculate pool. Though cleaning and maintaining does not require much time and effort, you should approach the job carefully.
Like any mechanical system, cleaning pool filters carries a few risks for those who are not careful. But, with some attention to detail (such as turning the filter off before cleaning) and focus, you may find the job easier than you thought.
Cleaning pool filters ensure that you're pool stays clean.
For more information, links, recommendations, pictures, and more about cleaning pool filters and pool filters in general, visit: http://www.everything-pool-filters.com
Source: www.articletrader.com
