Are you hesitant to take a dip in your pool, unsure if the water is clean enough? Well, missing out on enjoyable pool time due to murky water is the real pet peeve for any pool owner. Since it’s one of the genuine concerns, we thought to answer it today: how often should you clean a pool filter cartridge?
You must clean your pool filter cartridges 3 to 4 times annually. However, with minimal pool usage, the cleaning frequency can be reduced to twice every year. It’s always recommended to keep an eye on your filter’s operation and the surroundings. If you aren’t sure, contact a professional pool maintenance service for personalized advice.
When you keep your filters clean, the skimmer, pump, and filter all work in harmony to keep the water clean, saving you time and money in the long run. Read on to find out about how to maintain your filters for optimal performance and peace of mind.
How Often To Clean a Pool Filter Cartridge? Expert Recommendations
You can clean your pool filter cartridge every 6 months if you’ve ensured ideal conditions for them to operate efficiently. This includes well-maintained pool water, balanced chemicals, and no traces of algal bloom. However, if any of these conditions are not met, it’s essential to adjust your cleaning schedule accordingly and clean the cartridges more frequently.
How To Clean Pool Filter Cartridges? Follow These Steps
Here is the step-by-step cleaning process for regular and deep cleaning of cartridge filters:
1. Turn off the Pump: Before starting any maintenance, turn off the pool pump to ensure safety and prevent damage to the system.
2. Release Pressure: Open the air relief valve on top of the filter to release any built-up pressure inside.
3. Remove the Cartridge: Unlock the filter tank’s clamp or lid and carefully remove the cartridge from the housing. Pay attention to how it’s positioned so you can easily reinstall it later.
4. Inspect the Cartridge: Examine the cartridge for any damage, wear, or signs of deterioration. This includes tears, fraying, or calcification buildup.
5. Rinse the Cartridge: Use a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle to thoroughly rinse off any loose debris and dirt. Start from the top and work your way down, ensuring you clean between each pleat thoroughly.
6. Deep Cleaning (if necessary): If the cartridge is heavily soiled or has stubborn stains, you may need to deep clean it using a specialized filter cleaner solution. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for the correct dilution and soaking time.
7. Rinse Again: After deep cleaning (if applicable), rinse the cartridge once more with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
8. Inspect O-rings and Seals: Check the O-rings and seals on the filter housing for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary to prevent leaks.
9. Reassemble and Reinstall: Once the cartridge is clean and dry, reassemble the filter housing, making sure everything is properly aligned and sealed. Tighten the clamp or lid securely to prevent leaks.
10. Restart the Pump: Turn the pool pump back on and check for proper water flow and pressure. Monitor the system for any unusual noises or leaks.
Maintaining cartridges isn’t a one-time deal. You must keep a record of when you cleaned the cartridge and any observations you made during the process. This will help you establish a regular maintenance schedule and identify any potential issues early on.
How Do I Know When To Clean My Cartridge Filter?
When you notice a drastic change in water quality, such as reduced flow, slower return jets, and cloudy appearance, note that it’s time to clean and rinse your cartridges before using the pool again. Additionally, a significant increase in pressure compared to the normal operating range indicates that the cartridges are becoming clogged and need cleaning.
While you must clean your cartridge filter twice a year, these signs will give hints about the efficiency of your cartridges so you can take prompt action.
Professional Cleaning Services
An expert pool technician helps you decide and maintain the cleaning schedule for your filter cartridge. With their expertise and knowledge, they can assess your pool’s unique needs and recommend the most effective maintenance routine. That’s why you need to speak with a professional as he can timely identify and address potential problems.
Considering an annual inspection by a professional ensures that your filtration system is operating at its peak performance. This approach also helps prevent costly repairs down the line.
Final Words
Cartridge filters are the most efficient and cost-effective option for residential pools. By adhering to a regular cleaning schedule, you won’t have to worry about a replacement for the next 3-4 years. So, stay proactive and follow these guidelines to keep your pool filter cartridges in top condition all year round.
FAQs
Why Does My Pool Filter Get Dirty So Quickly?
Your pool filter may be getting dirty quickly for several reasons, but the most common culprit is algae growth. As algae grow and die underwater, they release debris that can clog the filter, reducing its effectiveness and causing it to become dirty more rapidly. Make sure you promptly treat any outbreak to prevent damage to your filter.
How Long Does Pool Filter Cartridge Last?
The standard lifespan of a pool filter cartridge is typically 2-3 years. However, with regular maintenance, these components have been observed to last for 4-5 years in optimal condition.