Your pool filter is the workhorse of water clarity—running constantly to remove debris, bacteria, and contaminants. When your pool filter is not working properly, water quality deteriorates fast. Cloudy water, algae growth, and equipment damage follow within days.
Firefighter Pools provides expert pool filter repair throughout Austin and surrounding areas. Our certified technicians diagnose filter problems quickly and repair or replace components same-day. Whether you have sand, cartridge, or DE filters, we have the expertise to restore proper filtration fast.
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Signs Your Pool Filter Not Working Properly
Recognizing pool filter repair needs early prevents bigger problems:
Cloudy or Hazy Water
The most obvious sign. When filters can’t remove microscopic particles, water loses clarity despite proper chemical balance.
High Filter Pressure
Pressure gauge reading 8-10 psi above normal indicates clogged filter media. If backwashing doesn’t lower pressure, internal damage exists.
Low Water Pressure
Weak return jets suggest restricted flow through filter or pump problems. This reduces circulation and filtration effectiveness.
Water Leaking from Filter
Leaks around filter tank, valves, or connections indicate cracked housing, failed seals, or loose fittings requiring immediate repair.
Algae Growth
Green tint or slippery surfaces mean the filter isn’t removing algae spores. Proper filtration prevents algae even with slightly low chlorine.
Filter Won’t Backwash
Multiport valves that stick or won’t complete backwash cycles need repair or replacement.
Unusual Noises
Grinding, squealing, or cavitation sounds from the filter area indicate pump problems, air leaks, or internal damage.
Debris Returning to Pool
If you see particles flowing back through returns, filter media is damaged or bypasses filtration.
Pool Filter Troubleshooting: DIY Checks
Before calling for pool filter repair , try this pool filter troubleshooting:
- Check Pressure Gauge
Normal operating pressure is 10-20 psi. Above 25 psi means the filter needs backwashing or cleaning. Below 10 psi suggests pump or flow problems. - Backwash Sand or DE Filters
Set the multiport valve to “Backwash” and run 2-3 minutes until sight glass shows clear water. Return valve to “Filter” position. Check if pressure drops. - Clean Cartridge Filters
Remove cartridge elements and spray with hose from top to bottom. Soak in filter cleaner solution if heavily soiled. Reinstall and check pressure. - Inspect for Visible Damage
Look for cracks in the filter tank, leaking seals, or loose connections. Tighten any loose fittings carefully. - Check Pump Operation
Ensure the pump is running and water is flowing. Weak flow indicates pump problems, not filter issues. - Verify Valve Positions
The Multiport valve should be in “Filter” position during normal operation. Wrong position prevents proper filtration. - Clean Skimmer and Pump Baskets
Clogged baskets reduce water flow to filter. Empty and rinse both baskets. - Check for Air Leaks
Air bubbles in pool returns indicate suction-side air leaks. This reduces filtration efficiency and can damage equipment.
If pressure remains high, water quality doesn’t improve, or leaks persist, professional pool filter repair is needed.
When Professional Pool Filter Repair Is Required
Schedule pool filter repair immediately if:
- Backwashing doesn’t reduce pressure below 25 psi
- Filter is leaking water from tank or valves
- Filter is 5-7+ years old and showing performance decline
- You see cracks or damage to filter housing
- Water quality doesn’t improve after cleaning
- Pump makes grinding or squealing noises
- Multiport valve won’t turn or leaks internally
- Sand or DE powder appears in pool
- Cartridge elements are torn or collapsed
Types of Pool Filters We Repair
Firefighter Pools services all filter types with expert pool filter repair Austin:
Sand Filters
Most common residential filters. Sand media lasts 5-7 years before replacement needed. We repair multiport valves, replace sand, fix leaks, and upgrade to larger tanks when needed.
Cartridge Filters
High-efficiency filtration with no backwashing required. Cartridges last 1-3 years depending on usage. We replace cartridge elements, repair tank cracks, fix leaking o-rings, and upgrade to higher-capacity models.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters
Finest filtration available—removes particles down to 3 microns. Requires DE powder replenishment after backwashing. We repair grids, replace manifolds, fix valve problems, and recharge DE powder.
Common Pool Filter Repair Services
Multiport Valve Repair & Replacement
Valves control filter functions—filter, backwash, rinse, waste, recirculate, closed. Internal seals wear out causing leaks and poor operation. We rebuild or replace failed valves.
Filter Media Replacement
Sand, cartridges, and DE grids wear out over time. We replace media with proper grades and sizes for optimal filtration.
Tank Crack Repair
Fiberglass tanks can crack from age or impact. Minor cracks are repairable; major damage requires tank replacement.
O-Ring and Seal Replacement
All filters use rubber seals that deteriorate. We replace all seals during repairs to prevent future leaks.
Pressure Gauge Replacement
Faulty gauges give false readings. We test and replace inaccurate gauges.
Lateral Assembly Repair (Sand Filters)
Broken laterals allow sand into pool. We replace damaged lateral assemblies.
Grid Replacement (DE Filters)
Torn or collapsed grids bypass filtration. We replace individual grids or complete grid assemblies.
Manifold Repair (DE Filters)
Cracked manifolds cause DE powder to enter pool. We replace damaged manifolds.
Filter Sizing Upgrades
Undersized filters run constantly at high pressure. We calculate proper sizing and upgrade to larger capacity when needed.
Pool Filter Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Decision
Not every pool filter not working situation requires full replacement:
Repair Makes Sense When:
- Filter is less than 7 years old
- Single component failure (valve, seal, cartridge)
- Tank is structurally sound
- Filter is properly sized for pool
- Repair costs less than 40% of replacement
Replacement Makes Sense When:
- Filter is 10+ years old
- Tank is cracked or corroded
- Multiple component failures
- Filter is undersized for pool
- Frequent repairs despite maintenance
- Opportunity to upgrade to more efficient type
We provide honest assessments with repair and replacement quotes so you make the best financial decision.
Why Choose Firefighter Pools for Pool Filter Repair ?
When your pool filter not working, trust Austin’s pool service experts:
Same-Day Service Available
Most filter repairs completed same-day when you call before noon. We understand filter failures can’t wait.
All Filter Types & Brands
We service Hayward, Pentair, Jandy, Sta-Rite, and all major manufacturers. Sand, cartridge, DE—we repair them all.
Fully Stocked Service Trucks
We carry common replacement parts—valves, cartridges, o-rings, gauges—allowing immediate repairs without parts delays.
Expert Diagnosis
Our technicians quickly identify root causes, not just symptoms. This prevents repeat failures and unnecessary repairs.
Transparent Pricing
You receive detailed quotes before work begins. No surprise charges. No hidden fees.
Warranty on Repairs
All labor is warranted. We use manufacturer-approved parts with factory warranties.
Preventive Maintenance Plans
Regular filter cleaning and inspection prevents most failures. Our maintenance plans include filter service.
Veteran-Owned & Local
As former firefighters, we bring discipline and reliability to every service call. We’re part of the Austin community.
Pool Filter Repair : Service Areas
Firefighter Pools provides pool filter repair Austin and surrounding areas:
Austin (all neighborhoods), Dripping Springs, Bee Cave, Wimberley, Lakeway, Henly, Blanco, Driftwood, Cedar Valley, Spicewood, Marble Falls, and all Hill Country communities.
Preventive Filter Maintenance Reduces Repair Needs
Most pool filter repair needs are preventable with proper maintenance:
Sand Filters:
- Backwash when pressure rises 8-10 psi above normal
- Replace sand every 5-7 years
- Inspect and lubricate multiport valve annually
- Check laterals for cracks every 3 years
Cartridge Filters:
- Rinse cartridges every 2-4 weeks
- Deep clean with filter cleaner quarterly
- Replace cartridges every 1-3 years
- Inspect o-rings and lubricate annually
DE Filters:
- Backwash when pressure rises 8-10 psi
- Recharge with proper amount of DE powder after backwashing
- Deep clean grids annually
- Inspect grids for tears every 2 years
- Replace grids every 5-7 years
Our maintenance plans include all filter service, preventing breakdowns and extending equipment life.
Pool filter not working? Water cloudy or green?
Call Firefighter Pools now for same-day pool filter repair . We’ll diagnose the problem and restore proper filtration fast.
Same-day service. All filter types. Veteran-owned. Free estimates.
