Maximize the Life of Your Pool Filter Cartridges

Modern pool filter cartridges for the average residential swimming pool will typically last between 3 - 5 years. The life of the filter cartridges will depend on many different factors including the pool's environment, how often the pool gets used, and quality of pool care. Following are several tips on extending the life of your pool filter cartridges and maximize your swimming pool maintenance budget.

Balanced Pool Water Chemistry - keeping proper pool water chemistry is a very important step to making your filter cartridges last longer. Not only can improperly balanced pool water cause unnecessary buildup and premature wear to the cartridges, but will also result in more pool problems including persistent algae which can quickly reduce the life a the cartridges. If you don't already have a pool test kit, buy one and learn how to use it. It will be one of the best investments you ever make in your pool.

Clean the Cartridges on a Schedule - probably the number one reason cartridges don't last as long as they should is neglect. Clean your pool filter cartridges on a regular schedule and each time you clean the cartridges, note the pressure on the filter pressure gauge after cleaning. Then monitor the pressure gauge between scheduled cleanings and never let the pressure rise more than 8 - 10 psi before the next cleaning.

Avoid Cartridge Damaging Cleaning Mistakes - when you clean the filter cartridges, avoid common mistakes that can damage the cartridges. Never brush the cartridges with a stiff brush and never use a pressure washer. All that is needed to clean the cartridges is a normal garden hose with a typical spray nozzle set on the jet setting.

Alternate 2 Sets of Cartridges - one trick that will certainly extend the life of your filter cartridges is to purchase a second set of cartridges and alternate sets at each cleaning. If you take this approach, make sure you clean the dirty cartridges immediately after swapping them out with the new cartridges. Then store them in a place where they will dry out quickly and stay dry until next use.

Run Pool Equipment All Year Long - one mistake many pool owners make in milder climates is not running the pool equipment during the winter months which can result in extended algae growth on the cartridges. This can quickly clog up the cartridges and cause premature aging and wear.



Replacing your swimming pool filter cartridges is one of the largest long-term expenses you will have related to your pool. With routine care and maintenance and following these tips, you can maximize the life of your pool filter cartridges by making them last as much as 50 percent longer.

 

 

More Articles on Pool Filters