Pool Filter Cleaning & Replacement

Why Your Pool Filter Matters More Than You Think

Your pool filter is the hardest working piece of equipment in your backyard. It runs for hours every day, pulling water through and catching dirt, leaves, oils, and microscopic particles you cannot even see. When your filter works properly, your water stays clear and balanced. When it gets clogged or worn out, everything else suffers. Your chemicals stop working effectively, algae can take hold faster, and your water turns cloudy no matter how much you treat it.

Most pool owners in Lakewood do not think about their filter until they notice problems. But regular filter maintenance prevents those problems from happening in the first place. A clean filter saves you money on chemicals, reduces wear on your pump, and keeps your water looking perfect all season long. We have seen countless cases where a simple filter cleaning solved water quality issues that seemed much more complicated.

Different Filters Need Different Care

Not all pool filters are the same. The three main types are sand, cartridge, and DE filters, and each requires specific maintenance approaches. We service all three types and know exactly what each one needs to perform at its best:

• •Sand filters: Need backwashing every 4 to 6 weeks and complete sand replacement every 3 to 5 years
• •Cartridge filters: Require cleaning every 2 to 4 weeks and replacement every 1 to 3 years depending on use
• •DE filters: Need backwashing and fresh DE powder regularly, with full grid cleaning annually

Our technicians assess your specific filter type and condition during every visit. We clean cartridges with professional equipment that removes buildup consumer hoses cannot touch. For sand and DE filters, we perform proper backwashing that flushes out trapped debris completely. When replacement is needed, we help you choose the right size and type for your pool and usage patterns.

Signs Your Filter Needs Attention Now

Your pool tells you when the filter is struggling. Cloudy water that will not clear up is the most obvious sign, but it is not the only one. Higher pressure readings on your filter gauge mean debris is building up inside and restricting water flow. You might notice your pump running louder than normal or working harder to push water through a clogged filter.

Some warning signs are less obvious. If you find yourself adding more chemicals than usual to maintain proper levels, your filter might not be circulating and filtering effectively. Short filter cycles where your system turns on and off frequently can indicate serious clogs. And if your water has a persistent film on the surface or feels slightly gritty, your filter is probably missing particles it should be catching.

Professional Cleaning vs DIY Maintenance

You can handle basic filter maintenance yourself between professional cleanings. Cartridge filters are the easiest to clean at home with a garden hose, though you will miss the deep buildup that requires professional tools. Sand and DE filters need proper backwashing technique to avoid damaging the system or wasting water.

Here is where professional service makes a difference. We use specialized cleaning solutions that break down oils, lotions, and minerals that plain water cannot remove. Our pressure washing equipment for cartridges reaches deep into the pleats where debris hides. We inspect for tears, cracks, or wear that could be letting unfiltered water through. And we can spot problems with your filter housing, valves, or plumbing before they cause equipment failure.

Many of our weekly pool cleaning customers include filter maintenance in their regular service. Others schedule quarterly deep cleanings in addition to their own routine upkeep. Either way, professional attention extends your filter's life and keeps your water quality consistently high. We also offer pool equipment repair if your filter needs more than just cleaning. For complete pool care, combine filter service with our comprehensive maintenance programs that cover all aspects of pool health.

Filter Cleaning Questions