Many people don’t know this, but cartridge filter systems actually do a pretty good job of removing particles from water — when installed correctly and the actual filter cartridges themselves get cleaned at the right times.

So NATURALLY that makes one wonder, “Hmmm…. When should I clean my cartridge filter?” So glad you asked because we happen to have a pretty good answer to that question!

It is time to clean the filters when you notice a decrease in the pressure from your jets, or when the pressure in your filter tank increases by 8 psi from when the filter was newly installed.

Sounds pretty obvious, right? Yeah… It does. But now HOW should you clean the cartridge filters now that you know WHEN to clean them?

In order to clean the filter, first remove it from its canister and use a garden hose to dislodge any debris between the pleats. Soak the filter in commercially prepared filter cleaner, or spray with the same to remove organic material and oils.

To remove stains soak overnight in a solution of one quart bleach and 5 gallons water. Thoroughly rinse the cartridge with fresh water and reinstall it into the canister. Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions for installing the filter.

DO NOT use a high-pressure car wash wand, a stiff brush or acid wash to clean the filter cartridges as these methods can damage the filter media.

Yep. Now you know when and how to clean your cartridge filters… but what happens if you accidentally rip the media or the dog gets hold of the thing and uses it as a chew toy?

Sorry to say this, but you need to get a new cartridge filter. Take a look at these replacement cartridge filters and find one to fit your system.

In an effort to prevent either of those tragedies, pool and spas come equipped with inline filtration systems designed to remove unwanted items from the water. Several different types of systems are commonly used:

• Sand — Often found on aboveground pools and on commercial pools. Water passes through a body of sand and as it does so, larger particles get filtered out.
• Diatomaceous Earth — Often found on inground pools of all sizes. Cloth covered fins or ‘fingers’ coated in a silt-like, white, material which looks very much like finely ground chalk filter out unwanted solids.
• Cartridge — Often found in spas and on very small aboveground pools. Porous paper sheets filter out unwanted solids.

Cartridge Filters

Sand Filters

DE Filters

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