You should Replace the Filter Cartridge in Your Pool

The pool filter is the heart of your swimming pool. If it is working properly, the water stays clean and crystal clear. To keep the filter operating at its optimum, you need to replace the filter.

Composition and Design

1. Material: Filter cartridges are typically made from spun polyester, woven into a pleated design. This material is chosen for its durability, efficiency in trapping particles, and resistance to pool chemicals.

2. Pleated Design: The pleats significantly increase the surface area for filtration, allowing more debris to be captured. This design also facilitates easier cleaning of the cartridge.

3. Core Structure: At the center of each cartridge is a robust core that supports the material and allows water to flow through. The core must be sturdy enough to withstand the pressure of water flow without collapsing.

How They Work

1. Filtration Process: As pool water is pumped through the filter, it passes through the pleated material of the cartridge. The filter captures and holds various contaminants like dirt, leaves, body oils, sunscreen, and bacteria.

2. Particle Size Filtration: A key aspect of a filter cartridge's efficiency is its ability to trap particles of different sizes. They are generally capable of filtering out particles as small as 10 to 15 microns. For context, a human hair is about 70 microns thick.

3. Water Flow and Pressure: The design of a filter cartridge ensures minimal resistance to water flow while maximizing contaminant removal. This balance is crucial for efficient filtration without overworking the pool pump.

Lifespan Factors

1. Pool Usage: The more a pool is used, the more contaminants the filter will need to trap, leading to a shorter lifespan.

2. Maintenance: Regular cleaning and proper maintenance can extend the life of a filter cartridge significantly.

3. Pool Environment: Pools in areas with a lot of trees, dust, or other environmental factors may require more frequent cartridge replacements.

4. Quality of Cartridge: Higher quality cartridges, though more expensive, usually last longer and perform better than cheaper alternatives.

Signs That It's Time to Replace

1. Pressure Gauge Reading: Check the pressure gauge on your filter system. A significant increase in pressure usually indicates that the cartridge is clogged and may need replacing.

2. Reduced Water Flow: If you notice a decrease in the water flow rate or weaker water jets, it's a sign that the filter is not performing efficiently.

3. Water Clarity: A visible change in water clarity or an increase in algae and bacteria levels can be a result of a worn-out filter.

4. Physical Damage: Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, fraying, or flattening of the pleats.

Regular Cleaning Routine

1. Rinsing: After every few weeks, especially during heavy usage, remove the cartridge and rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose. Direct the water stream from top to bottom, ensuring that all the pleats are cleaned. This removes loose debris and prolongs the filter's life.

2. Soaking: For a deeper clean, soak the cartridge in a specialized filter cleaning solution every few months. This helps break down oils, grease, and other stubborn contaminants that a simple rinse can't remove.

3. Non-Abrasive Cleaning Tools: Use soft brushes or cloths to clean the cartridges. Avoid using high-pressure washers or abrasive tools, as they can damage the filter material.

How to change the filter

1.Turn the pump off and untwist the pressure release valve
2.Remove ring off pump
3.Pull the top part of canister to get to filter
4.Clean filter with water hose; spray in between pleats and remove dirt and debris