Pool Filter Guide

When Should a Cartridge Filter Element be cleaned?

For swimming pools, clean the cartridge when filter canister pressure reaches 8 PSI above the initial system or new cartridge starting pressure. For spas, establish a routine cartridge cleaning schedule based on the amount of spa usage.

What is the Procedure to Clean My Cartridge Filter?

1. Remove the cartridge from the filter housing following the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Use a garden hose with a straight flow nozzle to wash down the filter element. Work from the top down, holding the nozzle at a 45 degree angel and wash all the pleats with emphasis between the pleats.
3. Rinse until all dirt and debris are gone.
4. For all spa cartridges and elements used in swimming pools where perspiration, suntan lotions, and other oils are present, soak the element for at least one hour (overnight is most effective) in (1) a commerical filter cleaner; or (2) one cup trisodium phosphate (TSP) to five gallons water; or (3) one cup dishwater detergent to five gallons of water.
5. Rinse the cartridge again to remove oils and cleaning solution.
6. If the filter has a coating of algae, calcium carbonate (residue from calcium hypochlorite), iron, or other minerals, soak the cartridge in a solution of one part muriatic acid to twenty parts water until all bubbling stops. WARNING: Failure to remove all oils and cleaning solution before acid soaking will result in a permanent restriction of water flow and cause premature cartridge failure.
7. Rinse the cartridge filter clean and reassemble housing.