How often should you clean your pool filter?

These tasks are more about efficiency, longevity, and comfort. Not a huge deal if you miss one, but it pays off over time.

Staying on schedule matters beyond the repair bill: a consistent maintenance record is one of the factors in a home's Roots Home Health Score, and well-kept homes typically sell faster and closer to asking price.

How to do it

The pool filter traps the debris and fine particles that keep water clear. As it loads up, flow drops, the pump strains, and the water starts to cloud no matter how balanced the chemistry.

1. Check the filter pressure gauge; a rise of 8–10 psi over the clean baseline means it's time.
2. For a cartridge filter, remove and hose the pleats clean; for sand or DE, backwash per the maker's steps.
3. Inspect the cartridge or grids for tears and the O-rings for wear.
4. Reassemble, restart, and note the fresh clean-pressure baseline.

Alternatives & optional extras

• Soaking cartridges in a filter cleaner once a season removes oils that a hose can't.
• Rising pressure right after cleaning can mean the cartridge is worn out and needs replacing.

Time: 30 minutes · Typical cost: Free to clean; $15–$30 for filter cleaner

If you skip it

A clogged filter cuts flow, strains the pump, and lets the water cloud up despite good chemistry.

Other pool / spa maintenance

• Test and balance pool water chemistry — every week

Related systems to keep on schedule

• Deck / patio — start with: inspect deck ledger, fasteners, and boards, once a year, ideally in May
• Irrigation / sprinklers — start with: winterize irrigation system, once a year, ideally in October
• Fence — start with: inspect fence posts and boards, once a year
• Driveway — start with: seal driveway cracks, once a year, ideally in June