Yes, you can clean pool filter sand through backwashing, chemical cleaning with muriatic acid or filter cleaners, and eventually replacing it every 2-3 years when cleaning becomes ineffective.
Running a pool pump without a filter will damage your pump's impeller, allow debris to circulate, and create dangerous pressure imbalances. Only run briefly in emergencies while replacing the filter cartridge or cleaning DE/sand media.
Cartridge pool filters cannot be backwashed like sand or DE filters. Instead, they must be removed and cleaned by hosing off debris, soaking in cleaning solution, and rotating between multiple cartridges for best results.
Pool heaters typically last 5-8 years for gas, 8-12 years for electric, and 10-20 years for heat pumps, depending on maintenance, usage, and water chemistry balance.
Yes, you can clean pool filters with diluted household bleach (1 part bleach to 10 parts water), but avoid bleach on DE filters and always rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent equipment damage.
Yes, most Walmart stores carry pool vacuums in-store during pool season (April-September), including manual, automatic, and robotic models. Availability varies by location and season.
Yes, you can pressure wash most pool filters, but only cartridge and DE filters - never sand filters. Use low pressure (under 30 PSI) and spray from the dirty side to the clean side for best results.
Clean your DE pool filter by backwashing for 2-3 minutes, then perform a complete teardown every 4-6 backwashes to hose off filter grids and apply fresh DE powder at 1 pound per 10 square feet of filter area.
Yes, pool cartridge filters can and should be cleaned regularly. Clean them every 2-4 weeks by removing debris, rinsing with a hose at 45-degree angle, and rotating between multiple sets for optimal performance.
Yes, you can clean your pool liner with bleach, but only when properly diluted (1:10 ratio with water) and never use concentrated bleach directly on the liner as it can cause permanent damage.
Pool cover pumps typically last 3-7 years with proper maintenance. High-quality pumps can last longer, while budget models may fail sooner due to weather exposure and frequent use.
Yes, sand pool filters absolutely need regular cleaning through backwashing every 1-2 weeks and deep cleaning every 3-6 months. Proper maintenance keeps your filter working efficiently and extends sand life to 3-5 years.
You should remove standing water from your pool cover before opening it to prevent contamination, damage, and safety hazards. Use a cover pump or siphon to drain water first, then carefully remove the cover.
Yes, you can and should cover a pool heater during winter months or when not in use. Use breathable, waterproof covers specifically designed for pool equipment to prevent moisture buildup while protecting from debris and weather.
Pool filter sand should be changed every 3-7 years depending on pool usage, bather load, and water chemistry maintenance. Sand becomes less effective over time as particles round off and channels form.
