when to clean cartridge pool filter

The Importance of Knowing When to Clean Your Cartridge Pool Filter

Swimming pools are an excellent way to beat the heat and enjoy some fun in the sun during summer. Whether you have a private or public swimming pool, it’s important to maintain its cleanliness and ensure that the water is safe for swimmers. One crucial aspect of pool maintenance is ensuring that the pool filter is regularly cleaned. In this article, we will discuss why it’s necessary to know when to clean your cartridge pool filter in detail.

What is a cartridge pool filter?

A cartridge pool filter is a type of pool filter that uses a pleated cartridge to trap debris and impurities from the pool water. The cartridge filter is one of three common types of pool filters, along with sand filters and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters.

Why is it important to clean your cartridge pool filter?

Over time, the cartridge pool filter can get clogged with debris, preventing it from performing its function effectively. A clogged pool filter can make the pool water cloudy, reduce water flow, and create more strain on the pool pump, which can eventually lead to a pump failure.

A dirty pool filter can also cause poor water circulation, which can result in algae and bacterial growth. The unclean pool water can cause a variety of health problems such as skin and eye irritation, respiratory issues, and other illnesses.

When to clean your cartridge pool filter?

There is no fixed timetable that dictates exactly when to clean your cartridge pool filter. The frequency of cleaning will depend on several factors, such as the size of the pool, how often the pool is used, and the amount of debris in the pool. In general, pool professionals recommend that a pool owner clean their cartridge pool filter every 6 to 12 months.

However, it’s essential to pay attention to the following indicators that tell you when it’s time to clean your cartridge pool filter:

1. Reduced water flow: A decrease in water flow in your pool can indicate that your cartridge pool filter has become clogged with debris. If you notice a decrease in water flow, it’s best to examine and clean the pool filter.

2. Dirty pool water: If you notice that your pool water has become cloudy or discolored, it is an indication that the pool filter is not functioning correctly. In such a case, you need to clean your cartridge pool filter immediately.

3. Pressure gauge reading: Your pool filter system may have a pressure gauge that shows the pressure inside the filter. If the gauge shows a reading of 8-10 psi or more than the normal range, it’s time to clean your cartridge pool filter.

4. Usage: If you use your pool frequently or have a large number of people using it, you will need to clean your cartridge pool filter more frequently.

5. Climate: If you live in an area with a lot of trees, flowers, and other plants, you may find more debris in your pool, which means you should clean your filter more often.

How to clean your cartridge pool filter?

Cleaning your cartridge pool filter is relatively simple and straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Turn off the pump: Before cleaning the cartridge filter, switch off the pump and disconnect the power supply.

2. Open the filter: Open the filter housing, unscrew the band clamp, and remove the filter cartridge from the housing.

3. Rinse the cartridge: Use a garden hose to rinse the cartridge from top to bottom, making sure that all debris is removed from the pleats. If you have a pressure washer, you can use it instead of a garden hose.

4. Soak the cartridge: Soak the cartridge in a filter cleaner solution for at least 24 hours to break down grease and oils.

5. Rinse the cartridge: Rinse the cartridge again to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

6. Reinstall the filter: Replace the filter cartridge in the housing, and make sure that the O-ring is correctly seated in its groove.

7. Recirculate the water: Turn on the pump and circulate the water for a few minutes before starting the filtration process.

Conclusion

Cleaning your cartridge pool filter is an essential task that should not be overlooked. Regular cleaning ensures that your pool water remains clean and safe to swim in. Now that you know why and when you should clean your cartridge pool filter and how to clean it, make sure to include this task in your pool maintenance routine.