Clean pool cartridge filter is very important, it can keep your pool water clean. because keep the water clean isn’t just about tossing in some chlorine and hoping for the best. A healthy pool is a properly working filter. If your filter cartridge is clogged with gunk, perhaps you water circulation has stopped functioning. stress out your pump, and even mess up your pool chemistry. Besides, dirty filters can harbor bacteria and algae — not exactly what you want floating around while you’re swimming.
Cleaning your pool filter regularly helps everything run more smoothly. You’ll use fewer chemicals, your pool gear lasts longer, and the water just looks and feels better. It’s not just about keeping things looking good — it’s about keeping your pool safe and enjoyable to swim in.
What’s a Pool Cartridge Filter?
A pool Cartridge filters are super common in backyard pools because they’re pretty efficient and don’t require as much maintenance as other types. Basically, it’s a cylinder made of pleated fabric (usually polyester or a synthetic blend), and as water flows through it, all the debris gets trapped in those pleats.
They’re great at catching fine particles and don’t require backwashing like sand or DE filters. But they do need to be cleaned now and then, otherwise they get clogged and stop doing their job well.
What You’ll Need
Before cleaning your pool cartridge filter, make sure you have the following items ready:
- Garden hose with a spray nozzle
- A bucket
- Pool filter cleaner (optional but helpful)
- Soft brush
- Screwdriver (depends on your filter model)
Having these ready makes the job quicker and easier. The hose is a must, the cleaner helps with stubborn gunk, and the brush is good for gently scrubbing the pleats. You might not need the screwdriver every time, but it’s handy to have nearby.
Clean a Pool Cartridge Filter — Step by Step
Step 1: Turn Off the Pump
Always start here. Shut off the pump and make sure it’s not going to kick back on while you’re working. This is for your safety and to protect your equipment.
Step 2: Let Out the Air & Open the Filter
Find the air relief valve on your pool filter housing (usually on top), and open it to release pressure. Once that’s done, open up the filter housing. You might need a screwdriver depending on your setup.
Take your time here. You don’t want to force anything and break a seal or lose a screw.
Step 3: Take Out the Cartridge
Removing the cartridge is essential for deep-cleaning your pool cartridge filter. Carefully pull the filter cartridge out and take a good look at it. If it’s torn or cracked, it might be time for a new one. Otherwise, set it aside for cleaning. Try to remember how it fits in so you can pop it back the right way later.
Step 4: Rinse It Off
Grab your hose and spray down the cartridge, starting at the top and working your way down. Get in between the pleats as best you can. Don’t use a pressure washer — that’ll just ruin the fabric.
If you clean it regularly, this might be all you need to do. But if it’s been a while…
Step 5: Soak It (Optional but Worth It)
For a deeper clean, mix up a solution with filter cleaner in a bucket and soak the filter cartridge for a few hours, or overnight if it’s really grimy. This breaks down oils, sunscreen, and other gunk that rinsing alone won’t touch.
Follow the instructions on the cleaner — they’re usually pretty straightforward.
Step 6: Rinse Again & Double Check
After soaking, rinse the cartridge again to get all the cleaner off. Give it another once-over to make sure there’s no visible damage or leftover crud. A good cartridge should last anywhere from 2 to 5 years depending on how much you use your pool and how often you clean it.
Step 7: Put Everything Back Together
Dry the pool filter cartridge (if possible), then slide it back into place. Close up the housing, tighten any fittings, and make sure everything feels secure.
Leaks can be a pain, so take a moment to check everything’s lined up properly.
Step 8: Turn the Pump Back On
Close the air relief valve and restart the pump. Keep an eye (and ear) out for anything weird — leaks, strange noises, or high pressure on the gauge. A freshly cleaned filter should make the system run more smoothly and might even lower the pressure a bit.
Some Handy Maintenance Tips
Clean your pool filter cartridge every 4 to 6 weeks during swim season. More often if your pool sees heavy use.
Keep a spare cartridge so you can swap a dirty one out and clean it later. This keeps your pool running without downtime.
Keep your pool water balanced — it reduces buildup in the filter and helps everything last longer.
Common Filter Problems And What to Do
1. Low water flow from your pool cartridge filter?
Usually means your filter’s clogged. Give it a clean. If that doesn’t help, check the pump or plumbing for clogs.
2. High pressure reading?
Again, probably a dirty filter. Clean it and see if the pressure drops. If not, your cartridge might be worn out and ready for replacement.
3. Tears or cracks in the cartridge?
Yeah, that’s your sign to toss it and get a new one. A damaged filter doesn’t work right and can mess up your whole system.
Summary
Cleaning your pool’s cartridge filter isn’t exactly fun, but it’s not hard either — and it makes a huge difference. A little regular maintenance goes a long way toward keeping your pool looking awesome and feeling great to swim in.
Don’t wait until your water turns cloudy or your pump sounds like it’s struggling. Stay on top of it, and your pool will thank you. Besides, once you’ve done it a couple of times, it’s pretty quick and painless. You might even start to enjoy the routine.
