A Comprehensive Guide to Cleaning Your Home Swimming Pool DE Filter

Maintain Your DE Filter’s Efficiency and Keep Your Pool Crystal Clear

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filters are known for their superior filtration capabilities, making them a popular choice for many swimming pool owners. However, regular cleaning is essential to ensure optimal performance and maintain water clarity. This article will guide you through the process of cleaning your home swimming pool DE filter and offer essential tips for optimal performance.

Understanding DE Filters

DE filters utilize a fine, powdery substance called diatomaceous earth to capture microscopic particles and impurities as water passes through the filter grid. Over time, the accumulated debris can reduce water flow and impact the filter’s efficiency. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to maintain the filter’s performance and prolong its lifespan.

How to Clean Your Swimming Pool DE Filter

Step 1: Turn Off the Pool Pump Before starting the cleaning process, ensure the pool pump is turned off. This is crucial for your safety and to prevent damage to the pump.

Step 2: Backwash the DE Filter To remove the majority of debris and spent DE, perform a backwash of the filter. Consult your filter’s manual for specific instructions on the backwash procedure.

Step 3: Open the Filter Housing After backwashing, open the filter housing to access the filter grids. This typically involves removing a clamp or band that holds the two halves of the filter housing together. Be prepared for some water to spill out when opening the filter housing.

Step 4: Remove the Filter Grid Assembly Carefully lift the filter grid assembly out of the filter housing. Inspect the grids for any signs of damage, such as tears or excessive wear. If you notice any issues, it’s time to replace the grids.


Step 5: Clean the Filter Grids Using a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle, thoroughly rinse the filter grids from top to bottom, ensuring all spent DE and debris are removed. For stubborn dirt or algae, use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the grids.

Step 6: Inspect the Filter Housing With the filter grid assembly removed, inspect the filter housing for any debris or damage. Clean the housing with a sponge or cloth, if necessary.

Step 7: Reinstall the Filter Grid Assembly Place the clean filter grid assembly back into the filter housing, ensuring it is properly seated. Double-check that the assembly is correctly positioned before proceeding.

Step 8: Close the Filter Housing Reassemble the filter housing by securing the clamp or band that holds the two halves together. Make sure the housing is properly sealed to prevent water leaks.

Step 9: Recharge the DE Filter With the filter reassembled, it’s time to recharge the DE filter with fresh diatomaceous earth. Consult your filter’s manual for the correct amount of DE to use. Slowly add the DE to the pool skimmer while the pump is running to ensure proper distribution.

Step 10: Turn On the Pool Pump With the DE filter reassembled and recharged, turn the pool pump back on and check for any leaks around the filter housing. The filter is now clean and ready to function at peak efficiency.

Tips for DE Filter Maintenance

1. Cleaning Frequency: Clean your DE filter every 4-6 weeks or when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi above the normal operating pressure.
2. Replace the Filter Grids: Depending on usage and maintenance, filter grids typically last between 3-5 years. Inspect the grids during cleaning and replace them if you notice any damage or excessive wear.
3. Maintain Proper Pool Chemistry: Balanced pool water chemistry will help prolong the life of your DE filter and keep your pool water clear and safe.

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