Pool Filter Cleaning & Replacement

Why Your Filter Matters

Your pool filter is the hardest-working piece of equipment in your backyard. It runs for hours every day, constantly removing dirt, debris, oils, and microscopic particles from your water. Without a properly functioning filter, your pool would turn cloudy and dirty within days no matter how many chemicals you add.

Think of your filter as the kidneys of your pool. Just like your body can't stay healthy with failing kidneys, your pool can't stay clean with a clogged or damaged filter. Over time, filters accumulate oils, minerals, and organic material that simple backwashing or rinsing can't remove. This buildup restricts water flow, reduces filtration effectiveness, and forces your pump to work harder.

Most pool owners don't think about their filter until there's an obvious problem. But by then, damage has already been done. Regular filter cleaning extends the life of your equipment, keeps your water sparkling, and prevents expensive repairs down the road. We've been maintaining filtration systems for Alhambra homeowners since 2024, and we know exactly what your filter needs to perform at its best.

Types of Pool Filters We Service

There are three main types of pool filters, and we service all of them. Each type has different maintenance requirements and lifespans:

• Cartridge Filters: These use pleated polyester or paper cartridges to trap debris. They're popular because they're easy to maintain and don't require backwashing. Cartridges should be cleaned every 4 to 6 weeks during swimming season and replaced every 1 to 3 years depending on usage and water quality.
• Sand Filters: These use special filter sand to capture particles as water flows through. Sand filters need backwashing regularly to clean out trapped debris. The sand itself should be replaced every 5 to 7 years as it becomes too smooth to filter effectively.
• DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters: These provide the finest filtration by using DE powder coated on grids inside the filter. DE filters need backwashing and recharging with fresh DE powder. The grids should be professionally cleaned annually and replaced every 5 to 8 years.

No matter which type you have, we'll clean, maintain, or replace it properly. We carry parts and supplies for all major filter brands, and we can diagnose problems that other companies miss. If your filter is beyond repair or nearing the end of its useful life, we'll recommend the best replacement option for your specific pool and budget. For pools with multiple issues, we can combine filter service with equipment repairs or ongoing maintenance.

Our Filter Cleaning Process

When we clean your filter, we don't just spray it with a hose and call it good. We perform a thorough deep cleaning that removes embedded oils, minerals, and organic buildup. Here's what's included:

For cartridge filters, we remove each cartridge and inspect it for tears, cracks, or deterioration. We then soak the cartridges in a professional-grade filter cleaner that breaks down oils and minerals that water alone can't remove. After soaking, we rinse each cartridge thoroughly using proper technique to avoid damaging the pleats. If cartridges are damaged or excessively worn, we'll recommend replacement.

For sand filters, we perform a thorough backwash to flush out trapped debris, then check the sand level and condition. If the sand is old or channeling, we'll recommend replacement. We also inspect the filter laterals and other internal components for damage.

For DE filters, we backwash the system, then open the filter and remove the grids for inspection and cleaning. We soak the grids in filter cleaner, rinse them completely, and reassemble the filter with fresh DE powder. We also check the manifold, o-rings, and other parts for wear or damage.

Signs Your Filter Needs Attention

How do you know if your filter needs cleaning or replacement? Watch for these warning signs:

Your pool water is cloudy or hazy even though chemicals are balanced. Your pump is running but water flow at the returns seems weak. The pressure gauge on your filter reads significantly higher than normal. Your pool is getting dirty faster than usual even with regular cleaning. You're going through more chemicals than normal to maintain water quality.

You notice cracks, tears, or holes in cartridge filter material. The filter media looks crushed, matted, or discolored. Your pump makes unusual noises or struggles to prime. Water is leaking from the filter housing or valves.

Any of these signs means it's time to call us. Ignoring filter problems leads to poor water quality, increased chemical costs, and potential damage to your pump and plumbing. We can quickly diagnose the issue and get your filtration system working properly again. Regular filter maintenance as part of our weekly service prevents most of these problems from developing in the first place.

The Benefits of Professional Filter Service

Many homeowners try to clean or replace their own filters, but professional service offers advantages that DIY can't match. We have the right cleaning chemicals, equipment, and expertise to thoroughly clean filters without damaging them. We know how to disassemble and reassemble filters correctly so nothing leaks or breaks.

We can identify problems you might miss, like worn seals, cracked housings, or internal damage that causes poor filtration. We also know which replacement parts are quality and which are cheap knockoffs that fail quickly. When we replace a filter, we make sure you get the right size and type for your pool and pump, not just whatever's cheapest at the hardware store.

Professional filter service also saves you time and hassle. Filter cleaning is messy, physically demanding work that takes hours if done properly. We handle it all while you focus on enjoying your pool instead of maintaining it. That's why so many Alhambra homeowners trust us with their filter service year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions