Pool Guide

Why clean your pool filter?

The filter plays a crucial role in keeping your pool clean. A dirty filter causes several problems:

• Reduced water circulation: A clogged filter reduces the flow, preventing the water from circulating properly in the filtration system.
• Increased pressure: A blocked filter causes a rise in pressure in the hydraulic circuit, which can damage the pump and other equipment.
• Effect on chemical treatment: Poor filtration reduces the effectiveness of chemicals, requiring more to be used to disinfect the water.
• Proliferation of algae and bacteria: Insufficient filtration encourages the appearance of algae and harmful organisms that cloud the water.

Frequent cleaning of the filter guarantees optimal filtration and extends the lifespan of your installation.

Cleaning a sand filter

The sand filter is one of the most common filtration systems due to its robustness and efficiency. Its maintenance is mainly based on backwashing, a simple but essential operation.

How do I backwash?

Turn off the filtration pump.

Turn the multiway valve to the "backwash’ (backwashing).

Switch the pump back on and let the water flow into the sewers for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the water runs clear.

Switch off the pump and set the valve to "rinse’ (rinse after backwash).

Run the pump for 30 seconds to stabilise the sand before returning to the normal position.

This cleaning should be carried out every 2 to 3 weeks, or as soon as the pressure indicated by the pressure gauge exceeds the normal pressure by 0.3 bar.

Maintaining a cartridge filter

Cartridge filters are valued for their fine filtration, but they require more frequent maintenance.

How do I clean a cartridge filter?

Turn off the pump and remove the filter cartridge.

Clean it with a water jet, paying particular attention to the folds to remove any accumulated dirt.

If the cartridge is very dirty, leave it to soak in a cleaning bath with a specific product (descaler or grease remover).

Rinse thoroughly and leave to dry before replacing.

It is recommended that the cartridge be cleaned at least once a month and replaced every 2 to 3 years.

Cleaning a diatomaceous earth filter

The diatomaceous earth filter offers a very fine filtration, capturing particles as small as 2 microns. However, it is more demanding to maintain.

Cleaning procedure:

Switch off the pump and open the drain valve to drain the water.

Set the valve to ‘backwash’ and restart the pump to drain the impurities.

Rinse the filter grates with a jet of water or a soft brush.

Add new diatoms to the filter after rinsing.

Backwashing is recommended every 4 to 6 weeks. Once a year, it is necessary to completely dismantle and clean it thoroughly.

Common problems and solutions

Despite regular maintenance, some problems may arise:

• Reduced water flow: A blocked filter or dirty pump may be the cause. Clean or replace the cartridge or perform a backwash. A blocked filter may also be the cause.
• Ineffective filtration: If the water quality does not improve despite filter maintenance, it may be necessary to change the filter media (sand, cartridge, diatomaceous earth).

Optimising the lifespan of your pool filter

To extend the lifespan of your filter and avoid premature wear, follow a few simple steps:

• Use suitable products: Some chemical products that are too aggressive can damage the filter media.
• Clean the pre-filter basket regularly: It retains large impurities and prevents the filter from becoming clogged too quickly.
• Monitor the pressure: A pressure gauge that indicates abnormally high pressure signals a clogged filter that needs cleaning.
• Replace the filter media: The sand in a filter should be changed every 4 to 5 years, while cartridges and diatomaceous earth have a shorter lifespan.

By taking care of your filtration system, you can guarantee clean water at all times, extend the lifespan of your equipment and reduce the consumption of chemicals. A well-maintained filter is the key to a healthy and pleasant swimming pool.