Clean your filter on schedule
A clogged filter runs up your electric bill and hides water quality problems.
What you'll learn
- The pressure gauge rule: 8–10 psi above clean = time to clean
- Cartridge vs sand vs DE, different rhythms for each
- Why a pressure washer shreds cartridge pleats
- When the filter gauge is stuck (replace it)
Step by step
- Check the pressure gauge right after a clean filter install, note the number.
- When pressure rises 8–10 psi above that: clean time.
- Cartridge: pump off, open housing, hose down pleats (no pressure washer).
- Sand: BACKWASH 2–3 min, RINSE 30 sec, back to FILTER.
- DE: backwash, then add fresh DE through the skimmer per spec.
A pressure gauge that never moves is stuck, replace it. Running a filter without a working gauge is driving blind.
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Keep learning.
Test your pool water weekly
Use a test kit, write down each reading, and follow the kit instructions closely.
Empty skimmer and pump baskets
A full skimmer basket kills flow and makes your pump work harder for no reason.
Brush and vacuum weekly
Brushing prevents algae before it shows up. Vacuuming gets the corners your robot misses.