Turn off the pool pump. Flip the setting on the filter to "backwash."
Take the skimmer basket out of the reservoir. Hold it under running water and clean off the dirt and debris. Put it back into the reservoir.
Turn on power to the pump. Keep it running for a few minutes until the water traveling through the pipe runs clear.
Cut power to the pump again. Change the setting on the filter to "rinse," which will clean the pipes, keep dirt from getting into the pool and settle the sand.
Turn on the pump for 60 seconds, then flip it off. Change the setting on the filter to "closed."
Look near the pump for the glass-top leaf trap. Turn it counterclockwise to open and take out the hair basket. Pull out leaves, debris and sticks. Clean under running water, if necessary.
Put the basket back in place. Turn the filter to the setting "filter." Turn on the pump.