How Often to Clean a Pool Filter Cartridge?

How Often to Clean a Pool Filter Cartridge?

How to Clean A Pool Filter Cartridge?

Maintaining a clean and clear swimming pool is essential for ensuring that it remains hygienic and safe for swimming. One of the key components in achieving this goal is the pool cartridge filter. This filter is responsible for removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the water to keep it clear and clean. However, to keep your pool in top condition, you need to know how often to clean the pool cartridge filter.

The frequency of cleaning your pool cartridge filter depends on several factors, including the size of your pool, the type of filter you have, and the amount of usage the pool gets. A general rule of thumb is to clean the pool cartridge filter every three to four months. However, this timeline can vary depending on the specific conditions and usage patterns of your pool.

When the swimming pool filter element is filtering, there will be dirt attached to the filter element. We can take out the filter element regularly for cleaning. If there are filter impurities in the filter element, then we can use a high-pressure water gun and toothpaste for scrubbing.

It is recommended that we reserve two or more pool filter cartridges so as not to affect normal use and replace the filter elements after rinsing with clean water to prolong their service life. Generally speaking, the recyclable rate of the filter element is about 4-5 months, but it still depends on the impact of local water quality.

If your pool is heavily used, it is recommended to clean the cartridge filter every two to three months. This increased frequency is necessary because the filter will become clogged with dirt and debris more quickly due to the higher volume of water flowing through it. On the other hand, if your pool is only used occasionally, cleaning the filter every six months should be sufficient.

The type of pool cartridge filter you have can also impact the frequency of cleaning. Sand filters are typically cleaned every three to five years, while D.E. (diatomaceous earth) filters should be cleaned every one to three years. Cartridge filters, on the other hand, need to be cleaned more frequently, typically every three to four months.

The weather can also affect how often your pool cartridge filter needs to be cleaned. During the summer months, when the pool is used more frequently and the weather is warmer, the filter will need to be cleaned more frequently. In addition, heavy rainfall can also impact the frequency of cleaning. Rainwater can contain dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can clog the filter, making it necessary to clean the filter more often.

Cleaning your pool cartridge filter is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. 

clean filter cartridge

Step 1

Start by turning off all nozzles in the hot tub or pool.

Step 2

Carefully remove the filter cartridge from the filter housing, not allowing any debris to return to the main chamber of the hot tub or pool.

Step 3

Move the filter closer to/away from the drain. Use a filter cleaner or brush and push the bristles into the pleats of the filter. Move the bristles up and down while pressing the trigger to wash away all unwanted deposits. This will filter most of the sediment out of the water.

Step 4

The filter should then be soaked in the cleaning solution overnight, deep cleaning by submerging the filter in the solution and soaking overnight.

Step 5

After removing from the solution, rinse thoroughly with a garden hose to complete the process, then allow the filter to dry before using.

A thoroughly cleaned filter provides more efficient filtration than a filter that is not thoroughly cleaned.

Once you have rinsed off the filter, you can inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the filter is damaged or worn, it should be replaced. If it is in good condition, simply reinsert it into the filter system and turn the pump back on.

In conclusion, the frequency of cleaning your pool cartridge filter will depend on several factors, including the size of your pool, the type of filter you have, and the amount of usage the pool gets. A general rule of thumb is to clean the filter every three to four months, but this timeline can vary depending on specific conditions.