How to Clean Cartridge Filters

Hello there again fellow ePoolSupply supporters, I want to tell you how to clean your cartridge filters. There are a few ways to clean your filters and it all depends on how dirty your filters are. If you are not sure how to clean your filters or when to clean them, please keep on reading. 

There are three ways to determine when your filter cartridge should be changed. 

• The first one is your cleaning frequency. If you clean your pool enough then it should last the maximum time. The average lifespan of cartridge filters ranges from 3 to 5 years, however, you should still monitor the performance of your filter in case there is an issue along the way.
• The second one is your water quality. If your water stays cloudy or green even with the proper chemical balance, then you might have to check the filter for any rips or run it longer and see if that helps, if it doesn't then it might be time for a new filter. 
• The third one is your filter damage. Inspect it thoroughly when cleaning, if there are any rips, tears, or cracks in the rubber end caps then it is time for a new filter. 

The first thing you are going to need to do is take the filter out of the filtration system. Before you can just take out the filter, you will need to turn off the pool pump and water supply to the system. Turning these off before you remove the filter will ensure that water will drain from the filter compartment and there will be no risk of shock. Next, release the air relief valve to depressurize the filter system. Now you can open up the filter compartment and pull the filter right out. Lastly, inspect the filter for any damages. Look over the entire filter for any holes and tears. Even the smallest rip can let the water flow through without removing dirt and debris. Now you are ready to clean your filter. 

The first method is for the filters that do not need a deep cleaning and is just routine cleaning. 

1. Spray any debris from the filter with a garden hose - Be sure to get in between the pleats on the filter. 
2. Allow the filter to dry out completely - It is best to put the filter in the sun and this will help kill any algae and bacteria that is in it. 
3. Shake the filter, or brush, or use an air compressor to remove loose particles - Doing this will help remove as much organic matter that can possibly be removed. 
4. Look for additional debris that needs to be removed - Checking between each pleat and all around to make sure you got everything, is recommended so it is totally clean. 
5. Now you can put everything back together and turn it back on. 

The second method is for filters that are extremely dirty or for an annual cleaning. 

1. Buy cleaning chemicals - We sell a really good cleaner for the filters, it is called BioDex Laboratories Zeo Filter Cleaner. This cleaner will help remove oils, minerals, and scale. 
2. Combine the cleaning chemicals and water in a container - You will need a container to soak your filters so make sure you get the right sized container. Follow the instructions on the bottle containing the chemicals and mix them in the bucket. 
3. Submerge the filters in the solution - Let the filters soak for as long as the directions say on the bottle. 
4. Remove the filter and rinse it off with clean water - Use a garden hose to clean the filter off and place it in the sunlight to allow it to completely dry. 
5. Look for additional debris that needs to be removed - Checking between each pleat and all around to make sure you got everything, is recommended so it is totally clean. 
6. Now you can put everything back together and turn it back on. 

If you are still unsure how to do this, please contact your local pool professional to come out and help you with this. Please follow the instructions carefully and contact us with any questions you may have. 

Look at all the cartridge filters we sell! 

Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Cartridge Filter 520

Here is the BioDex we sell to help deep clean your filters. 

Bio-Dex Laboratories Zeo Filter Cleaner (32 Oz.)

Also check out our YouTube videos talking about the cartridge filters!