Your filter is what keeps your pool water clear. A dirty filter means cloudy water and a struggling pump. Here's how to clean each type.
Cartridge Filter
Most common in residential pools. Clean every 1 to 3 months depending on use. Turn off the pump, release the air pressure through the bleeder valve, and open the filter housing. Remove the cartridge and rinse with a garden hose from top to bottom — never use a pressure washer, it damages the pleats. Soak in filter cleaner solution for 8 hours if heavily clogged. Rinse again and reinstall. Replace the cartridge entirely once a year or when the pleats look frayed.
Sand Filter
Backwash every 1 to 2 weeks or when your pressure gauge reads 8 to 10 psi above normal. Turn off the pump and set the valve to Backwash. Run the pump until the sight glass shows clear water (about 2 minutes). Set the valve to Rinse and run for 30 seconds. Return to Filter mode and resume normal operation. Replace the sand every 5 to 7 years.
DE Filter (Diatomaceous Earth)
Backwash the same way as a sand filter, but you must add fresh DE powder after every backwash to recoat the grids. Measure the correct amount of DE powder for your filter size, mix with water, and pour into the skimmer while the pump runs. Fully disassemble and clean DE filters once a year.