5 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Backyard Pool
A backyard swimming pool is more than just a place to cool off; it’s the centerpiece of outdoor entertainment, relaxation,
Owning a pool comes with many responsibilities, and one of the most crucial tasks is maintaining your pool filter cartridge. A clean pool filter cartridge is essential for keeping the water crystal clear, free from debris, and safe for swimmers. Properly cleaning pool filter cartridges ensures that your filter system works efficiently, extending the life of your filter and saving you money on replacements. In this blog, we will walk you through the process of cleaning a pool filter cartridge, the tools you’ll need, and some maintenance tips.
Before we dive into cleaning, it’s helpful to understand what a pool filter cartridge does. A pool filter cartridge is part of your pool’s filtration system, which removes dirt, debris, and impurities from the water. Unlike sand or diatomaceous earth (DE) filters, cartridge filters use pleated fabric (typically polyester) to trap particles as water flows through.
Over time, the cartridge becomes clogged with debris, reducing its efficiency. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and helps maintain clean, safe pool water.
The frequency of cleaning your pool filter cartridge depends on factors such as pool usage, environmental conditions, and the size of your filter. In general:
1. Light pool usage: Clean the filter every 4-6 months.
2. Heavy pool usage: Clean the filter every 1-3 months.
3. After a storm or algae bloom: You may need to clean the filter immediately after these events due to increased debris and contamination.
Some modern pool filters come with pressure gauges that indicate when it’s time to clean the filter. If the pressure rises by 8-10 PSI (pounds per square inch) from the normal operating pressure, it’s time to clean the filter.
Before you start, gather the necessary tools:
1. Garden hose: Preferably with a nozzle for increased pressure.
2. Soft brush or toothbrush: To scrub off stubborn debris.
3. Filter cleaner solution: Available at pool supply stores, this solution helps break down oils and contaminants that simple rinsing can’t remove.
4. Bucket or tub: For soaking the filter in cleaning solution.
5. Rubber gloves: To protect your hands from chemicals.
Now that you’ve got your tools ready, let’s go through the cleaning process.
Before you begin any maintenance on your pool filter, turn off the pool pump to prevent any water from circulating while you’re working. This is a crucial safety measure to avoid injury or damage to the filtration system.
Most pool filter systems have an air relief valve on top. Open the valve to relieve any pressure inside the filter housing. This prevents water or air from spraying out when you open the filter.
Next, you’ll need to remove the filter cartridge from the filter housing. To do this:
1. Unscrew the filter housing lid or open the clamps holding the lid in place.
2. Lift the cartridge out carefully and set it aside. Some filter cartridges may be heavy, so handle with care.
Before you start cleaning, inspect the filter cartridge for any signs of wear or damage. Look for:
1. Cracks or tears in the pleats.
2. Broken or missing bands that hold the pleats together.
3. Discoloration or excessive buildup that doesn’t wash off.
If the cartridge is damaged, it’s best to replace it instead of cleaning. Continuing to use a damaged filter will result in poor filtration and potential damage to your pool pump.
The first step in cleaning is to thoroughly rinse the cartridge with a garden hose. Use a nozzle with a strong spray to remove dirt, debris, and other particles lodged in the pleats. Start at the top and work your way down, paying extra attention to the folds where debris tends to accumulate.
Make sure to rinse between each pleat, as this is where most dirt gets trapped. Avoid using a pressure washer, as it can damage the delicate fabric of the cartridge.
For deeper cleaning, especially if the filter is clogged with oils or minerals, you’ll need to soak it in a specialized filter cleaner solution. Here’s how to do it:
1. Prepare the cleaning solution: Follow the instructions on the bottle to dilute the filter cleaner with water in a bucket or tub.
2. Soak the cartridge: Submerge the cartridge in the cleaning solution and let it soak for 8-12 hours, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
3. Rinse thoroughly: After soaking, rinse the cartridge thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining solution. Make sure no residue is left on the filter, as it can harm your pool’s water chemistry.
If you’re dealing with a heavy oil buildup, consider using a degreaser to break down oils and lotions from sunscreen that may have accumulated on the filter.
If you notice stubborn debris stuck in the pleats after rinsing, use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently scrub it away. Be careful not to damage the pleats, as they are essential to the filter’s effectiveness.
Although it’s not necessary, allowing the filter cartridge to air dry completely before reinstallation can help remove any remaining moisture or chemicals. This step is particularly useful if you plan to alternate between two filter cartridges.
Once the cartridge is clean and dry, you’re ready to reinstall it into the filter housing:
1. Place the cartridge back in the filter and ensure it’s seated correctly.
2. Close the filter housing by replacing the lid or securing the clamps.
3. Close the air relief valve to prevent air from entering the system.
Finally, turn the pool pump back on and watch for any signs of leaks around the filter housing. Open the air relief valve slightly to release any trapped air in the system, then close it once water starts to flow steadily.
Allow the pump to run for a few minutes and check the pressure gauge to ensure the pressure is within the normal range.
To keep your pool filter cartridge in optimal condition and ensure the best pool filtration, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Avoid over-cleaning: Over-cleaning can reduce the lifespan of your filter cartridge. Clean only when necessary, typically when the pressure gauge indicates a rise in PSI.
2. Rotate cartridges: If possible, have two filter cartridges and rotate them. This allows one to dry out completely while the other is in use, extending the life of both.
3. Use a skimmer sock: To prevent large debris from entering the filter, use a skimmer sock in your pool’s skimmer basket. This pre-filters the water and reduces the load on your filter cartridge.
4. Replace as needed: A typical pool filter cartridge lasts 2-3 years with proper care. However, if you notice cracks, tears, or reduced filtration performance, it’s time to replace the filter.
Maintaining a clean pool filter cartridge is key to keeping your pool water clear and healthy. By following this guide on how to clean a pool filter cartridge, you can ensure your pool’s filtration system operates efficiently, prolong the life of your filter, and enjoy pristine swimming water all season long.
Remember, consistent pool maintenance goes a long way in preserving the longevity of your equipment and ensuring your pool stays inviting and safe for everyone to enjoy.
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