Should You Clean or Replace Your Pool Filter Cartridges

You may know that your swimming pool’s filter helps keep it clean. But did you know that you need to clean and, on occasion, replace your filter cartridges?

As dirt, oil, and minerals build up, there may come a time when cleaning no longer works.

In this article, we look at how you know if you should clean or replace them.

How to Know When to Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridges

Take a look at the filter pressure gauge. It’s time to clean your filter cartridges when it increases by eight pounds per square inch (PSI) or more. You also want to clean them at least every six months. This assumes you have the right size filter, you haven’t had high bather loads, and you haven’t had water issues like algae.

If you notice a change in the water quality, check your pool filter. In addition, it’s a good idea to check it monthly during the summer swimming season. Look for any damage and clean if necessary.

Cleaning Your Pool Filter Cartridge

If you’re ready to clean your pool filters, here’s how to do it! Watch as David Townley cleans his one-month old filters and they go from dirty to sparkling!

To clean your filter cartridge, spray it with water and remove any large dirt and debris. Then, you want to soak it in a pool filter cartridge solution (pick yours up at Townley!) to remove oils and minerals and rinse it with water. A solution is a must, as water alone won’t do it.

If you have a sand filter, you need to backwash it. Check out this video for more info.

Here are a few tips:

Let your cartridge dry completely before putting it back in the filter tank.
Have extra filter cartridges on hand when you’re ready to clean. This way, you and your family can continue to swim while you’re cleaning the cartridges you just took out.
If you don’t want to clean them yourself, we can do it for you!

How to Know When to Replace Your Pool Filter Cartridges

As a basic rule, most pool owners replace their cartridges every three to five years. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore them for three years.

The most important thing you can do is to monitor how well your filter is performing. Your timeframe may vary depending on the type of demand on your filter. If you have questions, we are always here to answer them!

Here are a few things to keep an eye on:

How often do you clean your filter cartridges? If you notice a shortening of the time frame between cleanings and when your PSI rises above eight, it’s time to replace your cartridge. Consider the half-life as well.
What’s your water quality like? Does your pool stay cloudy regardless of your water balance? Do you need to run your filter longer or use more sanitizer than usual? This may mean your filter isn’t working efficiently. First, clean the cartridge. If that doesn’t remedy any issues, consider a new cartridge.
Is the filter damaged? You should inspect it each time you clean it. Look for rips and tears. If you see these or cracks at the end, replace the filter.