What Pool Owners Need To Know About Pool Filters

As swimming season heats up in Arizona, your pool filter becomes one of the hardest-working pieces of equipment in your backyard.

During the winter, when the pool sits mostly unused, filters don’t get much attention. But once the temperature climbs and the dust starts blowing, your pool filter needs some care to keep the water clean, clear, and safe to swim in.

Here’s everything Arizona pool owners should know about filter types, cleaning schedules, and how to tell when it’s time for a replacement.

The Three Types of Pool Filters

Every pool uses one of three main filtration systems: sand, cartridge, or D.E. (diatomaceous earth) filters. Each has its strengths - the best choice depends on your pool size, debris level, and maintenance preferences.

Photo Credit: PoolProducts.com

1. Sand Filter

Water passes through a bed of special filter sand that traps dirt and debris. When the sand becomes clogged, you backwash the system, reversing water flow to rinse out the waste.

• Filters particles 20–40 microns in size

• Low maintenance and durable

• Needs new sand every 4–6 years

2. Cartridge Filter

Uses pleated fabric cartridges to trap fine debris as water flows through. Instead of backwashing, you remove the cartridge and hose it off every few months.

• Filters particles 10–15 microns in size

• Excellent water clarity

• Requires cleaning every 3–6 months and replacement every 3–4 years

3. D.E. Filter

The finest filtration available, a D.E. filter coats internal grids with diatomaceous earth powder to capture even microscopic contaminants.

• Filters particles as small as 3 microns

• Cleans via backwashing and re-coating with new D.E. powder

• Best for homeowners who want ultra-clear water and don’t mind extra maintenance

How Often Should I Clean My Pool Filter?

Cleaning frequency depends on the filter type and your pool’s environment:

Filter Type	Typical Cleaning Schedule	When to Clean More Often
Cartridge	Every 3–6 months	Heavy pool use, pets, or dusty conditions
Sand	When pressure rises 8–10 PSI above normal	After monsoon storms or visible debris
D.E.	When pressure rises 10 PSI above normal	After large parties or algae treatment

If your pool collects dust or debris during monsoon season, clean or backwash your filter immediately after each major storm.

Clean your filters more frequently if:

• If you have lots of leaves and debris that fall into your pool regularly, clean your filter more often

• If you have lots of guests over and your pool gets used frequently, clean your filter more often

• If you have a pet that swims in your pool, clean your filter more often

When to Replace Your Pool Filter

Even with regular cleaning, filters eventually wear out. Most pool filters last 10–15 years in Arizona conditions with good maintenance.

You may need to replace your filter if:

• The tank or housing cracks from UV exposure or pressure

• You notice leaks after reassembly

• Pressure stays high even after cleaning

• Cartridge fabric is torn or collapsed

• The pool water remains cloudy despite proper chemistry

These are pictures of filters that need to be replaced:

DIY vs Professional Filter Cleaning

Cleaning your filter yourself saves money, but professional service ensures the job is done right.

DIY Cleaning

• Requires time, tools, and familiarity with your equipment

• Easy to miss small tears or buildup

• Risk of leaks if parts aren’t reassembled correctly

Professional Cleaning

• Complete disassembly, rinse, and inspection

• O-rings and seals checked or replaced

• System tested for pressure and flow efficiency

How Much Does It Cost To Clean a Pool Filter?

If you clean it yourself, it only costs your time and water to backwash or spray the filter. If you would like a pool service professional to come clean your pool filters, it could be $75 - $100.

At $75–$100, professional filter cleaning is an affordable way to protect your equipment and extend its life.

Which Filter Keeps The Pool Clearest?

While cartridge filters typically provide the clearest water, new high-performance sand filters can come close when properly maintained.

If you’re deciding between the two, consider how much debris your pool collects and how much effort you want to put into maintenance.

For dusty backyards or homes with pets, cartridge filters usually win out.

How Old Is My Pool Filter?

We don't know - how old is your pool? Filters can last 10-15 years in some cases.

While we probably can't look at your filter and tell you how old it is - we can tell you if it needs to be replaced. The telltale signs are:

• It's time to replace your pool filter if it breaks (fiberglass can get old and crack from the effects of harsh sun)

• It's time to replace your pool filter if after you clean your cartridge and put back together - it leaks.

Ready for a Cleaner, Clearer Pool?

Your pool filter quietly does the heavy lifting keeping your water clear and healthy all season long. Whether you have a sand, cartridge, or D.E. filter, cleaning it regularly and replacing it when needed saves money and prevents bigger pool problems down the road.

If you’re unsure when your filter was last cleaned or replaced, let the experts at Sunset Pool Care take a look.

Call 480-682-7986 or request a service online.We’ll inspect, clean, and optimize your system so your pool stays crystal clear through every Arizona summer.

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