Pool Filter Cleaning & Replacement

Why Filter Cleaning Matters

Your pool filter is the hardest-working piece of equipment you own. It runs for hours every day, trapping dirt, oils, leaves, and debris that would otherwise cloud your water. Over time, these particles clog the filter media and reduce water flow. When that happens, your chemicals do not circulate properly and your water quality suffers.

Most pool owners do not realize their filter needs cleaning until the water turns cloudy or green. By then, the filter is so clogged it can barely function. Regular filter cleaning prevents these problems and extends the life of your equipment. We recommend cleaning your filter every 3 to 6 months depending on pool usage and local conditions. Our professional pool maintenance services include filter checks to catch problems early.

Filter Types and Cleaning Methods

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters use pleated fabric to trap debris. They are the most common type in residential pools because they are easy to maintain and do not require backwashing. We remove the cartridge, spray it down with a high-pressure hose, and soak it in a cleaning solution to remove oils and minerals. If the cartridge is torn or worn out, we recommend replacement.

Sand Filters

Sand filters push water through a bed of special sand that traps particles. Cleaning involves backwashing, which reverses water flow to flush trapped debris out through a waste line. We also add filter cleaner a few times per year to break down oils that sand cannot capture. Sand should be replaced every 5 to 7 years.

DE Filters

Diatomaceous earth (DE) filters provide the finest filtration but require more maintenance. We backwash the filter, then add fresh DE powder to coat the grids inside. Every few years, the grids need to be removed and deep cleaned or replaced. DE filters are common in larger pools or homes with high water quality standards.

What We Do During Filter Service

Our filter cleaning service is thorough and designed to restore full filtration power. Here is what we include:

• Complete inspection: We check for cracks, leaks, worn o-rings, and damaged components.
• Deep cleaning: We clean cartridges, backwash sand or DE filters, and remove built-up debris.
• Pressure testing: We check your filter pressure before and after cleaning to ensure proper flow.
• System check: We inspect your pump, valves, and plumbing for issues that affect filtration.
• Replacement recommendations: If your filter is beyond repair, we provide honest advice on replacement options.

If you need equipment repairs or upgrades, our pool equipment repair service can handle pumps, heaters, and automation systems too.

Signs Your Filter Needs Cleaning

Many pool owners wait too long to clean their filters because they do not notice the warning signs. Here is what to watch for:

High filter pressure is the most obvious sign. Most filters have a gauge that shows pressure in PSI. When pressure rises 8 to 10 PSI above your normal reading, the filter is clogged and needs cleaning. Cloudy water is another red flag, especially if your chemicals test perfectly balanced. Weak water flow from return jets or longer cleaning cycles also indicate filter problems.

Daly City pools deal with extra debris from coastal winds and nearby vegetation. If you notice leaves and dirt settling on the bottom faster than usual, your filter might not be keeping up. Our weekly cleaning service includes regular filter checks so you never have to worry about these issues.

Frequently Asked Questions