Pool Filter Cleaning & Replacement

Why Filter Cleaning Matters

Your pool filter is the hardest working piece of equipment you have. It runs for hours every day, removing dirt, debris, oils, and microscopic particles from your water. Over time, all that trapped material builds up inside the filter, reducing its effectiveness and putting strain on your pump.

A dirty filter can't clean your water properly. You'll notice the water stays cloudy even though everything else seems fine. Your pump has to work harder to push water through the clogged filter, which wastes energy and can shorten the pump's lifespan. In severe cases, a completely clogged filter can cause equipment damage.

Regular filter cleaning keeps your pool system running efficiently and your water crystal clear. How often your filter needs cleaning depends on the type of filter you have and how much your pool gets used. Most residential pools in San Rafael need filter service every three to six months.

Types of Pool Filters

There are three main types of pool filters, and each requires different maintenance:

• Sand filters use special pool sand to trap particles. These need backwashing every few weeks and complete sand replacement every five to seven years.
• Cartridge filters use pleated paper cartridges to filter water. These need removal and cleaning every three to six months, and replacement every one to three years depending on use.
• DE (diatomaceous earth) filters provide the finest filtration. They need backwashing and fresh DE added regularly, plus yearly deep cleaning of the filter grids.

Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Cartridge filters are the most common in San Rafael because they're efficient and relatively easy to maintain. We service all three types and can help you understand what your specific filter needs.

What Our Filter Service Includes

When we clean your filter, we do it right. For cartridge filters, we remove the entire cartridge and thoroughly rinse it with a high-pressure hose. We inspect the pleats for damage and check the end caps for cracks. If your cartridge is worn out or damaged, we'll recommend replacement.

For sand filters, we perform a thorough backwash cycle that flushes trapped debris out of the sand bed. If your sand is old or your filter isn't performing well even after backwashing, we may recommend replacing the sand. Old sand compacts and loses its filtering ability.

DE filters get a complete backwash, and we add fresh diatomaceous earth to coat the filter grids. Once a year, DE filters should be opened and the grids removed for thorough cleaning. This more intensive service removes oils and buildup that normal backwashing can't handle. Our San Rafael pool service includes filter maintenance as part of comprehensive pool care.

Signs Your Filter Needs Attention

How do you know when your filter needs cleaning? There are several telltale signs. First, check your filter pressure gauge. Most filters have a gauge that shows the pressure inside the system. When the filter is clean, you'll have a baseline pressure reading. When the pressure rises 8 to 10 PSI above that baseline, it's time to clean the filter.

Another obvious sign is cloudy water that won't clear up. If your water chemistry is balanced and you don't have algae, but your water still looks hazy, a dirty filter is the likely culprit. The filter simply can't remove particles anymore because it's already full of trapped debris.

Reduced water flow from your return jets also indicates a clogged filter. When water can't flow freely through the filter, less water comes out of the jets. You might also notice your pump running louder than usual as it struggles to push water through the blocked filter. If you notice any of these issues, contact us for filter inspection and cleaning.

When to Replace Your Filter

Filters don't last forever. Cartridge filters typically last one to three years depending on how well they're maintained and how much your pool gets used. You'll know it's time for replacement when the cartridge fabric starts falling apart, end caps crack, or the pleats become permanently matted down.

Sand in sand filters should be replaced every five to seven years. Over time, the sharp edges of the sand grains wear smooth, reducing their ability to trap particles. If your pool water stays cloudy even after thorough backwashing, old sand is often the reason.

DE filter grids can last many years if properly maintained, but they do eventually wear out. We check them during annual deep cleaning for holes, tears, or fabric deterioration. Replacing worn grids prevents DE powder from escaping back into your pool.

We carry replacement cartridges and can source parts for most filter brands. When replacement is needed, we'll provide upfront pricing and handle the entire installation. Some customers also choose to upgrade to larger or more efficient filters during replacement, which can improve water quality and reduce overall maintenance needs.