How to Clean Cartridge Filters on Your Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide
Keeping your pool's cartridge filter clean is essential for maintaining water clarity and ensuring efficient filtration. Cartridge filters can accumulate debris over time, affecting their performance and the overall cleanliness of your pool. Here's a straightforward guide on how to clean your cartridge filter and keep it in top shape.
Why Regular Cleaning is Important
Cartridge filters trap debris and particles from your pool water, but they can only hold so much before becoming clogged. When the filter is full, it can cause reduced water flow, increased pressure, and decreased efficiency. Regular cleaning ensures that your filter performs optimally and extends its lifespan.
How to Know When It’s Time to Clean
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Pressure Gauge: Check your filter's pressure gauge. If the PSI (pounds per square inch) is 10 or more above your clean filter pressure, it’s time for a cleaning.
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Water Flow: Place your hand in front of the pool returns. If you notice a significant decrease in water flow, this could indicate a clogged filter.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Turn Off the Pool Pump: Ensure your pool pump is completely turned off before beginning any maintenance work. This is crucial for safety and to avoid damage to the system.
2. Close Valves: Shut all valves leading from the pool to the pump to prevent any water from flowing into the filter system during cleaning.
3. Remove Air from the System: Locate the air-relief valve, usually found on top of the filter. Slowly open this valve to release any trapped air in the system.
4. Disassemble the Filter: Remove the clamp or assembly that holds the filter together. If you're unsure how to do this, consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.
5. Remove the Filter Top: Carefully take off the top of the filter to access the cartridges inside.
6. Remove and Inspect Cartridges: Gently take out the cartridges and inspect them for any damage such as cracks, tears, or loose pleats. If you find any issues, it may be time to replace them.
7. Clean the Cartridges: Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to clean the cartridges. Spray at an angle to get between the pleats, but avoid using a pressure washer as it can damage the cartridges. For heavily soiled filters, use a chemical filter cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. If the debris is caked on, soak the cartridges overnight in a mixture of filter cleaner and water. Use a five-gallon bucket or a clean plastic trash can to ensure the cartridges are fully submerged.
8. Check and Maintain the O-Ring: Inspect the O-ring on the filter tank. If it’s in good condition, apply a light coating of Magic Lube to keep it lubricated. If it’s worn, cracked, or deformed, replace it with a new one.
9. Rinse and Reassemble: Thoroughly rinse the cartridges to remove any remaining cleaner. Replace the cartridges into the filter, ensuring they are properly aligned and secured. Put the filter top back on and tighten the clamp or assembly. You may need to use a rubber mallet to ensure a proper seal.
10. Reopen the Air-Relief Valve: Make sure the air-relief valve is still open. Turn the system back on and keep the valve open until you see a steady stream of water, then close the valve.
11. Check System Pressure: After cleaning and reassembling, check the system pressure. If the PSI is not within the normal range, there might be an issue with how the filter was reassembled or another problem with the system. Troubleshoot as necessary to correct any issues.
Final Tips
- Regular Maintenance: Clean your filter regularly, ideally every 4-6 weeks, depending on your pool’s usage and debris levels.
- Professional Help: If you encounter any issues or are unsure about the cleaning process, don’t hesitate to contact a pool professional for assistance.
Properly maintaining your cartridge filter will not only keep your pool water crystal clear but also ensure that your pool system runs efficiently, saving you time and money in the long run.
You can also watch the video below for more information!
