How often should I clean my pool filter?

Most filters need professional deep cleaning every 6 months, typically in spring and fall. Cartridge filters may need quarterly cleaning if your pool gets heavy use. Backwashing sand and DE filters weekly helps between professional cleanings, but does not replace the need for thorough service.

When should I replace my filter instead of cleaning it?

Replace cartridge filters every 2 to 3 years, sand every 5 to 7 years, and DE grids every 5 to 7 years. If your filter shows cracks, tears, broken parts, or will not hold proper pressure after cleaning, replacement is needed. We assess condition during cleaning and recommend replacement when appropriate.

Can I clean my own pool filter?

You can perform basic maintenance like backwashing and rinsing cartridges. However, professional filter cleaning involves disassembly, specialized cleaning solutions, thorough inspection, and proper reassembly. We have the tools and expertise to clean filters completely, removing buildup that home cleaning methods miss.

Pool Filter Cleaning & Replacement

Expert filter maintenance to keep your pool water crystal clear and equipment running efficiently.

Pool filter equipment maintenance in Casas Adobes, AZ

Your Filter Does the Heavy Lifting

Your pool filter is the hardest working piece of equipment you own. It runs for hours every day, pulling debris, dirt, oils, and contaminants out of thousands of gallons of water. Over time, filters get clogged with all this trapped material. When that happens, your water clarity suffers and your pump works harder trying to push water through a blocked filter.

Clean filters are essential for clear water. Most Casas Adobes pool owners do not realize their filter needs regular deep cleaning beyond simple backwashing. Dust from our desert environment, minerals from our hard water, and oils from sunscreen all build up inside filter media. Professional filter cleaning removes this buildup and restores proper water flow.

Three Types of Pool Filters

We service all filter types common in Casas Adobes pools. Each type has different cleaning needs and replacement schedules. Understanding your filter type helps you maintain it properly and know when replacement is needed.

Sand Filters

Sand filters use special filter sand to trap debris. They are durable and last for years with proper care. We recommend professional sand filter cleaning every 6 months to remove oils and debris that regular backwashing cannot eliminate. Sand itself needs replacement every 5 to 7 years as it loses its filtering ability over time.

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters use pleated fabric elements to catch particles. These provide excellent filtration but need regular cleaning. We remove cartridges, spray them clean, and soak them in special filter cleaner to dissolve trapped oils. Cartridges typically need replacement every 2 to 3 years depending on pool usage and maintenance.

DE Filters

Diatomaceous earth filters offer the finest filtration available. They trap particles down to 3 microns, keeping your water incredibly clear. DE filters require the most maintenance but deliver the best results. We recommend professional DE filter cleaning twice per year. DE grids inside the filter need replacement every 5 to 7 years.

Signs Your Filter Needs Attention

Several warning signs tell you when your filter needs cleaning or replacement. If you notice any of these issues, your filter is probably struggling:

Cloudy or hazy water that will not clear up
Higher than normal pressure reading on your filter gauge
Weak water flow from return jets
Shorter time between backwashing needs
Dirt and debris returning to your pool
Filter running longer hours without clearing water

Many of these symptoms also indicate other equipment problems. We inspect your entire system during filter service to identify any additional issues affecting water quality.

Filter Cleaning Process

Our professional filter cleaning goes far beyond what homeowners can do. We disassemble your filter, inspect all components, and clean everything thoroughly. For cartridge filters, we soak elements in professional degreaser to remove oils. For DE filters, we check grids for tears and recoat with fresh DE. For sand filters, we deep clean the sand bed or replace sand when needed.

Regular filter maintenance extends equipment life and improves water quality. Combined with weekly pool cleaning, proper filter care keeps your pool sparkling clear year-round. Clean filters also reduce energy costs by allowing your pump to work efficiently.

Call (520) 640-0148