What is a cartridge pool filter?
A cartridge filter is exactly what it sounds like, it’s a filter in the form of a cartridge. This is a very popular choice for many pool owners as cartridge filters are very convenient when it comes to replacement and maintenance.
Pool cartridge filters can filter down all the way to 10 microns in size which makes the water of your pool much clearer than compared with a pool sand filter. This also means that you will have to clean your cartridge filter more often than pool sand filters simply because they catch MORE dirt and debris than sand filters.
How often do you clean pool filter cartridges?
There’s no real “fixed” schedule to clean pool filter cartridges as it will all depend on your actual pool usage, but as a rule of thumb, we suggest that you clean your pool filter cartridges at the very least once a month. Aside from monthly cleaning, we also suggest to clean your pool filter cartridges after certain events like:
After a heavy rain storm
After a pool party or heavy usage
After an algae bloom
If your pool cartridge filter shows higher than normal pressure readings
How to Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridge?
Cleaning your pool filter cartridge is pretty straightforward. First step is to turn off your pump (unplug it to be sure) After that, simply vent your cartridge filter first to relieve the pressure inside the canister, remove the collar so you can take off the cover and pull the filter cartridge out. To avoid messy splashes, you can also unplug the drain plug located at the bottom of your cartridge filter unit to drain out all of the water first.
When to change pool filter cartridges?
Again, this will depend on the usage of your pool, but a safe answer to this question would be to replace your filter cartridges every one to two years. Here are some signs to look out for that are excellent indicators that it’s time to change out your pool’s filter cartridges.
When your filter cartridge is showing signs of damage.
The filter’s pressure gauge is showing high PSI readings even after cleaning.
The pleats look damaged or flat.
The cartridges are crushed.
Filter elements looking frayed and tattered.
