To have crystal clear pool water and equipment running smoothly you must clean your filter cartridge. This guide will break down when and how to clean your filter cartridge so your pool stays in top shape.
When to Clean Your Filter Cartridge
Keeping your pool running optimal and a clean swimming environment depends on knowing when to clean your filter cartridge. One of the first signs that it’s time to clean your filter is an increase in pressure. You should clean the filter cartridge when the pressure gauge shows 8-10 PSI above normal operating pressure. An increase in pressure means the filter is clogged with debris and not circulating water as effectively.
If you notice reduced water flow and weaker suction from your pool cleaner it could be a problem and needs to be inspected and maintained. When the filter cartridges are dirty the pool pump has to work harder and water flow throughout the pool is reduced. You may also notice a change in water quality, cloudy or murky water which means the filter is not capturing debris well. Cleaning the pool filter cartridge after a summer pool party or a heavy rainstorm is crucial to deal with the extra debris load.
And finally if your pool is heavily used or you live in an area with lots of debris like leaves it’s a good idea to check and clean the filter cartridge more often. Keep an eye on these signs and your pool will be clean and inviting all season.
How Cartridge Filters Work
Keeping your pool water clear and clean is mostly dependent on the pool filter cartridge. Think of it as the kidney of your pool, filtering out impurities and keeping the water healthy. The pool cartridge filter system also known as a filtration system works by pulling water into a tank containing cylindrical cartridges with fine pleated mesh material. These cartridge pool filters trap debris and impurities and produces cleaner water output. These pleats provide a large surface area for filtration so the system can capture dirt and debris.
As the water flows through the pleats particles as small as 10-15 microns get trapped in the folds. This is much more effective than sand filters which may not capture as fine particles. Unlike sand filters, which use depth filtering and require backwashing, cartridge filters use surface filtering and need to be manually cleaned by removing and hosing down the pleated filter. Understanding how your pool cartridge filter works will emphasize the need for regular maintenance and cleaning.
Tools and Supplies Needed
Before you clean your pool filter cartridge gather all the tools and supplies. One of the tools is a garden hose with a moderate to high pressure attachment to rinse off debris. You will also need a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the filter pleats without damaging them. For deeper cleaning a pool filter cleaner solution or diluted muriatic acid can be very effective.
Don’t forget to wear gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from chemical splashes during the cleaning process. A torque wrench can also be handy to secure the filter cartridge back in place after cleaning. With these tools you’re ready to get started.
How to Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridge
Cleaning your pool filter cartridge may seem daunting but this step by step guide will make it easy. Here’s what to do:
- Turn off the pool pump
- Open the filter housing
- Rinse the cartridges
- Deep clean with TSP solution
- Muriatic acid wash
- Rinse thoroughly before reinstallation.
Each step is important to make sure your filter is clean and ready to keep your pool water clear. Let’s go through each step.
Turn Off the Pool Pump
Turning off the pool pump is the first and most important step for safety reason – to prevent the pump from turning on while you’re working on the filter. If you’re not sure how to prevent the pump from turning on it’s best to turn off the breaker to the pool pump.
Open the Filter Housing
Next open the filter housing by releasing the pressure. This can be done by opening the air relief valve on top of the filter housing. If your filter system has a pressure relief valve or a drain plug use it to release the pressure. Follow your filter manual’s instructions to open the O-ring clamp or unscrew the top of the filter housing depending on the model.
For quad-type filters you will need to remove the clamp held by a Spring Barrel Nut to access the cartridges. Before reassembling lubricate the housing O-ring with a silicone-based lubricant to prevent leaks and to secure the filter lid properly.
Rinse the Filter Cartridges
Use a garden hose with moderate pressure to rinse the filter cartridges starting from the top and work your way down. This will allow the dirt to flow down and out of the pleats. Don’t use a high pressure cleaner as it may damage the pleats.
Deep Clean with TSP Solution
For deeper cleaning soak the filter cartridges in a TSP (trisodium phosphate) solution. The recommended ratio is 1 cup of TSP to 5 gallons of water. Soaking the cartridges in this solution will remove oils and stubborn debris.
Muriatic Acid Wash
If your cartridges still have stubborn stains a muriatic acid wash can be very effective. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix 1:20 muriatic acid and water.
- Soak the filter cartridges in this solution for about an hour.
- Always follow safety precautions, wear gloves and ensure good ventilation.
After soaking rinse the filter cartridges thoroughly with fresh water before reinstallation.
Final Rinse and Reinstallation
After deep cleaning give the filter cartridges a final rinse with a garden hose with a hose attachment to remove any remaining cleaning agents. Apply moderate pressure to avoid damaging the cartridge material.
To put the filter cartridges back in your pool filter follow these steps:
- Put the clean and rinsed filter cartridges back in the filter housing making sure they are properly seated.
- Close the filter housing tightly.
- Turn on the pool pump to run normal.
How to Maintain Your Pool Filter Cartridge
Regular maintenance of your pool filter cartridge is key to clear pool water and extend the life of the filter. Generally you should clean the filter cartridge every 6 months. But if your pool has more debris like algae growth or frequent storms you may need to clean it more often.
Cleaning your filter cartridge every 2-3 weeks can also be beneficial in maintaining optimal filtration. Regular cleaning will prevent clogging, ensure good water circulation and reduce the load on the pool pump. Also opening the drain valve at the bottom of the cartridge housing periodically to flush out debris will extend the cleaning interval.
When to Replace Your Pool Filter Cartridge
Depending on usage and maintenance pool filter cartridges usually need to be replaced every 1 to 3 years. High PSI reading on the filter gauge means it’s time to replace. Reduced water flow and circulation also means the filter is not working properly.
Visible damage like cracks or tears on the cartridge means it’s time to replace. If cleaning the filter cartridge doesn’t improve filtration it’s probably time for a new one. Regular inspection will help you determine the right time to replace to keep your pool in top shape.
Benefits of Cleaning Your Pool Filter Cartridge Regularly
Cleaning your pool filter cartridge often will give you:
- Clear water
- Algae growth prevention
- Stable water chemistry
- Less load on the pool pump
- Longer pool equipment life
A clean filter with its filter elements will give you crystal clear water and make the pool more appealing. Using high quality filters will also boost your pool filter system.
Cleaning your filter will give you:
- Algae growth prevention by trapping algae spores
- Disease prevention by preventing bacteria and other microorganisms buildup
- Longer life of your pool equipment by reducing the load on the pool pump
Maintaining your pool filter will extend the life of its parts and save you time, money and energy in the long run. Regular cleaning will also mean fewer pool chemicals and less cleaning time.
Conclusion
In summary, cleaning your pool filter cartridge regularly is key to clear water, good filtration and long life of your pool equipment. By knowing the signs that your filter needs cleaning, how cartridge filters work and the steps to clean it properly you can have a clean and enjoyable pool to swim.
So go get your tools and get ready to have a sparkling pool. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning will not only boost your pool’s performance but also give you peace of mind. Happy swimming!
FAQs
How often should I clean my pool filter cartridge?
Clean your pool filter cartridge every 6 months or when the pressure gauge shows 8-10 PSI above normal operating pressure. In high debris conditions you may need to clean it more often.
What tools do I need to clean my pool filter cartridge?
You’ll need a garden hose with a moderate to high pressure attachment, a soft brush or sponge, pool filter cleaner or diluted muriatic acid, gloves and safety goggles to clean your pool filter cartridge. Always make sure you have the tools before you start cleaning.
When to replace my pool filter cartridge?
Replace your pool filter cartridge every 1 to 3 years or when you see high PSI reading, reduced water flow, visible damage or when cleaning doesn’t improve filtration. This will maintain optimal pool water quality and filtration.
Why should I clean my pool filter cartridge regularly?
You should clean your pool filter cartridge regularly to have clear water, prevent algae growth, maintain water chemistry, reduce load on the pool pump and extend the life of pool equipment. This will keep your pool in top shape without extra expense.
Can I use a high pressure cleaner to rinse my pool filter cartridge?
No, using a high pressure cleaner will damage the delicate pleats of the filter cartridge. Use a garden hose with moderate pressure to rinse the pool filter cartridge.