How to Clean a Cartridge Pool Filter

A clean swimming pool filter is an important key to having a clean and sparkling pool all year round. Neglecting the pool filter will result in constant struggles with algae and will eventually cause many other costly problems. Following are the basics of cleaning a cartridge swimming pool filter.

Turn off the pool equipment - turn off the main circuit breaker for the swimming pool equipment or the circuit breaker at the pool equipment if needed, but make sure the pool equipment does not start up while the filter is disassembled.

Relieve the Pressure - open up the pressure relief valve on the top of the filter to release any built up pressure from the system.

Drain the Water - unscrew and remove the drain plug from the filter housing in order to completely drain the filter of water. The drain plug is typically found somewhere on the bottom of the filter.

Open the Filter Housing - once all of the water is drained and pressure released from the filter, carefully open up the filter housing by removing the filter band that fits around the outside of the filter.

Remove the Cartridges - carefully remove the dirty filter cartridges from the filter housing. For most filters this includes removing the top manifold that holds the filters together and in place.

Thoroughly Clean the Cartridge Element(s) - using a standard spray nozzle on the hose on the jet setting, thoroughly spray the cartridge elements down until as much of the dirt and debris as possible is removed and the water runs clear. For the best results, work from the top down and spray of the filter cartridges at a 45 degree angle. Never use a pressure washer because extremely high pressure may damage the cartridge elements.

Clean Filter Housing - spray down the filter housing in order to remove any dirt or debris from the inside of the filter. Make sure the o-ring is clean in order to get a good and tight seal when the filter is reassembled.

Re-insert the Clean Filter Cartridge Elements - carefully re-install the clean filter cartridges in an opposite manner that they were removed. Remember to reinstall the top manifold.

Close and Secure the Filter. - remember to reinstall the drain plug.

Restart the Pool Equipment - when restarting the pool equipment, leave the pressure relief valve open until all the air has been purged from the filter. Run the filter for 5 to 10 minutes inspecting for leaks and tighten as necessary.

Note the Filter Pressure - once the filter is up and running again, make a note of the pressure on the pressure gauge. When the pressure rises 10psi, it is time to clean the cartridge filter again.

Establishing and sticking to a routine cleaning schedule for cartridge pool filters is half the battle when it comes to having a clean and sparkling swimming pool.

Remember, for best results when cleaning a cartridge swimming pool filter, read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If the instructions have been lost or misplaced, contact the manufacturer for replacement instructions. Often times the manufacturers provide easy access to downloading the instructions from their web site.

 

 

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