Cleaning and Service Equipment and Supplies
Pool Filters: Care Tips and Tricks
The majority of pool owners rely on service technicians to clean their pool filters. Without a doubt, pool filter care is an essential aspect of pool maintenance. To avoid regular revamp procedures, pool owners should take care of their filters. But what are the best pool care tips and tricks? Cleaning and servicing pool filters vary depending on the type of filter. In this article, we discuss how to take care of various types of filters.
Whenever a pool has issues with its heating system or water clarity, pool techs begin evaluating the filtration system.
pool expert at Pentair, John Watt
Types of filters and the appropriate ways of cleaning them
Sand Filter Backwash
Typically, the backwash flow rate is approximately 15 – 20 GPM per square foot. So, pool techs should identify this rate before cleaning a sand filter. Watt states that an extremely low or high backwash flow rate is not a good sign. He says, “A low rate of water flow indicates the accumulation of dirt particles. In such cases, when you get rid of the loose particles, the remaining particles are likely to settle down on the filter. So, the lower part of the filter can get ruined due to the formation of calcrete. Calcrete results from the accumulation and integration of debris on the floor of the filter.
Additionally, when water is moving at a high rate, debris contained on the sand bed gets lifted. Then it passes into the filters at high pressure. This way, your pool filters can get damaged since water due to high water velocity.
Ryan Standage, the owner at Coconut Pool & Spa, states that “Often, we find damaged laterals whenever we inspect pool filters.” One of the best ways to clean a sand filter is by adding a small portion of the dry clarifier. First, turn off all the inlets. Afterward, add approximately 170 to 450 grams of dry clarifier into the filter. Allow it to stay for about five hours or longer. Afterward, turn on the pump and filter. The dry clarifier will thoroughly cleanse the filter in its backwash motion.
Although effective, the cleaning process of a sand filter backwash is both time and money consuming. In particular, changing a sand filter can take about eight hours.
D.E. Filter Backwash
The D.E filter backwash uses backwashing, just like the sand filters. However, the time used for backwashing is different. Backwash usually takes approximately 3 minutes. But in cleaning the D.E filter, 60 seconds are for backwashing, and another 60 seconds are for filtration. Pool techs should do this repeatedly for three consecutive times. While cleaning the D.E filter backwash, ensure the pump is off. Moreover, make sure that backwash occurs where there is a 10 psi pressure differential. Pool operators should clean these filters not less than two times a year.
Nonetheless, note that this procedure won’t get rid of oils from sunscreen and body lotions. Thus, consider using an anti-greasing agent. Also, avoid using muriatic acid during this process since it will retain grease for an extended period.
How to clean Cartridge Filters
Cartridge filters are basic filters put in place to get rid of debris and other impurities from water. The process of cleansing a cartridge pool filter entails various steps which include:
Hose off the filter
First, use a standard hose to water the filter. Avoid putting pressure on the filter since it could damage the filter pleats.
Dip and soak the filter in appropriate pool chemicals
The second step is to soak the filters. You can do this using purifying or sanitizing agents and muriatic acid. Pool techs or owners can get these pool chemicals from various pool chemical stores. During this process, a bucket of approximately 210 liters would be suitable. It is advisable to soak the cartridge filters overnight.
Repeat the soaking process
After soaking the cartridge filters, pass them through clean water to remove impurities. Afterward, soak them in clean water. Consider soaking the filters using chlorine to make them whiter. The soaking process does not have to end here. If the filters are not yet clean you can repeat the process.
Dry the filter completely
Before putting them into use again, make sure the cartridge filters are completely dry. It would be best for pool owners to have other cartridge filters to use in the meantime. Air drying cartridge filters are useful since they give the fibers time to fuzz up and become useful once again. If the cartridge filter does not dry completely, it can malfunction.
Don’t let your pool filter frustrate you
Anytime you notice your filter has a slight malfunction, consider cleaning it. Most pool problems result from a dirty filter. So, always have the appropriate pool equipment and chemicals near you.
Besides fixing a small issue, cleaning a pool filter facilitates longevity. Also, you will save a lot of costs on maintenance and renovation procedures. Ultimately, different types of pool filters require different maintenance procedures. Cleaning procedures of pool filters vary depending on the type of filter. Nonetheless, pool owners should clean their filters regularly.
Cleaning and Service Equipment and Supplies
Darlly Filtration Partners With The Grit Game on Private Label Pool Filters
DAVENPORT, Fla., Darlly Filtration, one of the largest filter cartridge manufacturers in the world and a private label supplier to well-known names in pool and spa, has partnered with The Grit Game (TGG) to represent its pool and spa filtration line across seven states: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas.
A filter program with the dealer’s name on it
For most pool stores, the replacement cartridge is the most shoppable item on the shelf. A customer brings in a dirty filter, the counter team identifies it, and the customer finds the same part number online before reaching the parking lot.
Darlly’s private label program is built to close that gap:
- Private label at no upcharge. The dealer’s logo goes on the cartridge label for the same price as a Darlly labeled filter.
- Custom part numbers. Dealers can assign their own part numbers, so the filter on their shelf is not a line-for-line price comparison online.
- No order minimums. No minimums on orders or on private label, so a dealer can start with their two or three highest-volume SKUs.
- Same ship timeline. Product is labeled when the order is picked, so private label ships as fast as stocked product.
“Every pool store we walk into has the same story. Their team does the work of identifying a filter, and the sale walks out the door to an online seller. Darlly gives dealers a real answer to that: their own name and their own part number on a cartridge built to the original spec, with no upcharge and no minimums. That is the kind of line we want to put in front of pool professionals, because it helps them run a better business,” Laci Davis, Co-Founder and CEO, The Grit Game.
Built to the spec of the original cartridge
Every Darlly pleated cartridge is built to the specification of the original equipment cartridge, with:
- Single-layer tri-lobal spun bonded polyester media that resists chlorine and bromine
- An ABS injection molded center core made with NSF certified material
- Reinforced end caps with screen mesh molded in during production
- Pleat bands for pleat stability
- A screw thread guaranteed for life
What the partnership means across the seven states
TGG’s reps will work with pool professionals market by market, starting with the filters each account moves most.
- Florida. A cartridge-heavy market where price pressure is constant. The focus is private label and custom part numbers that take the price comparison off the table.
- Texas and Louisiana. Larger filters are the norm. Reps will cross-reference the large Hayward, Pentair, Jandy and Waterway cartridge sets that dominate the region.
- Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Mississippi. Wide-open ground where D.E. filtration is still common, making universal grid kits a simple, single-line-item add alongside cartridges.
“Darlly Filtration is excited to partner with The Grit Game. The professionalism, integrity and high standards of The Grit Game Team embody what Darlly stands for,” Brad Schneider, Director of U.S. Sales Pool & Spa Division.
Pool builders, service route companies and retail store owners interested in a Darlly private label program can contact their The Grit Game rep here.
About Darlly Filtration
Hangzhou Darlly Filtration has manufactured filter cartridges for more than 25 years and is one of the largest filter cartridge manufacturers in the world, producing more than 35 million filters a year for customers in over 100 countries. Beyond pool and spa, Darlly serves the biopharmaceutical, microelectronics, medical, food and beverage, petrochemical and drinking water industries. Darlly is an OEM and private label supplier to established brands in the pool and spa industry and offers more than 600 replacement cartridge part numbers, universal D.E. grids and filtration systems. US operations run from warehouses in Ontario, California and Loveland, Colorado. Learn more at darllyfilter.com.
About The Grit Game
The Grit Game is an award-winning manufacturer rep firm and marketing agency serving the pool, spa and backyard industry across the United States and Canada. Founded in 2023 by Laci Davis and Johnny Davis, TGG works on an “education before transaction” model, connecting a vetted line of manufacturer partners with the pool professionals who build, service and sell to backyard owners. TGG was named Pool Nation Sales Rep Group of the Year in 2024. Learn more at thegritgame.com.
Cleaning and Service Equipment and Supplies
King Technology Opens $17M Manufacturing and Distribution Center
ST. PETERS, MO, September 29, 2026 – King Technology, a leading innovator in hot tub, swim spa and pool water care, and sanitization systems, has opened a new centralized manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution center in St. Peters, Missouri. The company is investing at least $17 million in the facility, which is expected to ultimately employ 40 workers in the next three years.
“King Technology’s investment of more than $17 million in a new manufacturing and distribution facility in St. Peters is another testament to Missouri’s strong business climate, skilled workforce, and central location,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “We’re proud to welcome King Technology and look forward to seeing this family-owned company grow, create jobs, and succeed in the Show-Me State for generations to come.”
The 208,000-square-foot facility – located in the Lakeside Logistics Center in St. Peters – will enable King Technology to provide efficient world-class service to hundreds of distributors and dealers across the United States.
“Our new facility in St. Charles County is a milestone for our company’s long-term growth strategy,” said Michael Noer, President and CEO of King Technology. “The region’s commitment to growing businesses and its strong sense of faith, family, and community reflect the same values behind King Technology’s purpose to ‘Enrich Lives Daily.’”
King Technology is best known by thousands of hot tub and swimming pool owners for its FROG family of pre-filled, easy-to-use recreational water care products with patented mineral technology that keeps water crystal clear for in-ground and above-ground pools, swim spas, and hot tubs, while using significantly less chlorine. King Technology also introduced its New Water brand of products this year for mass retail across the U.S.
A third-generation, family-owned company for nearly half a century, King Technology will maintain its headquarters in Minnetonka, Minnesota. “King Technology’s decision to choose St. Peters for their new distribution center reflects our region’s clear strengths and our commitment to bringing new employers and new jobs to our region,” said Ron Kitchens, Managing Partner of Greater St. Louis, Inc. “Greater St. Louis, Inc. was proud to support King Technology’s first-ever expansion, and we look forward to watching them grow and thrive in St. Peters.”
King Technology worked alongside Missouri state and local partners to determine and invest in its second location, including Ameren, the City of St. Peters, the Economic Development Council of St. Charles County, Greater St. Louis, Inc., Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri Partnership, and Spire.
A ribbon cutting and celebration was held on September 29, 2026, with participation by St. Peters, Missouri Mayor Len Pagano and Missouri Governor Michael Kehoe (pictured).
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
“For nearly half a century, this third-generation, family-owned company has built a legacy of innovation, growth, and commitment to its customers,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “We’re proud King Technology has chosen Missouri for this significant investment and look forward to supporting its continued success as it creates new opportunities for Missourians to prosper in the St. Louis region.”
“We’re so excited to be welcoming King Technology to our FasTrac family,” said St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano. “I’m so proud of our FasTrac economic development team, working with our partners at the local and State of Missouri level to help King Technology expand to our region. We look forward to working with King Technology and watching them grow into the future!”
“King Technology’s expansion into St. Peters reflects the continued strength of St. Charles County as a place where manufacturers can grow, invest, and thrive,” said Scott Drachnik, President & CEO of the Economic Development Council (EDC) of St. Charles County. “We are grateful for the trust they have shown in our community and look forward to their continued success.”
“King Technology’s investment in St. Peters reflects what companies continue to find across Missouri: a strategic location, strong infrastructure, and a business climate that supports long-term growth,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “This project strengthens Missouri’s advanced manufacturing footprint, creates new opportunities for Missourians, and reinforces the state’s position as a premier destination for companies serving customers across the nation.”
ABOUT KING TECHNOLOGY
King Technology, Inc. is a third-generation, family-owned water care company founded in 1978 by Lloyd King and Joe King. Headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, the company is a market leader in hot tub and swim spa water care and a leading innovator in pool water care. King Technology is best known for its FROG family of pre-filled, easy-to-use water care products, which use patented mineral technology to keep water clear while requiring significantly less chlorine. The company’s mission is to Enrich Lives Daily. For more information, visit kingtechnology.com.
JED Pool Tools, US manufacturer and distributor of swimming pool and spa maintenance equipment, offers a new Pro 14” Pool Vacuum with a swivel-plastic handle for cleaning both residential and commercial swimming pools. This vac head is heavy weight and designed to make it easy to clean corners and steps. Made to handle the cleaning of any size swimming pool with durable construction. Easily maneuverable vacuum head has 360-degree swivel connector that ends aggravating hose tangling. Adapted for both 1-1/2” and 1-1/4” hose sizes. Proudly made by JED in Pennsylvania, USA.
www.JEDPoolTools.com
570-344-4137
Old Forge, PA
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