Filter cartridge replacement? vs cleaning.

[wpturner05]

When do I know it is time to replace my filter cartridges? I had no trouble with my water chemistry this year, my pressure gauge never increased. I did my typical mid season cleaning and I am cleaning now. By cleaning, I mean I use the hose at a 45 degree angle on the inside and out until the water comes clean.

Current condition of the filters: DEFINITELY discolored, there is debris within the pleats that is really difficult/near impossible to get out. No tears in the pleats, the bands are mostly intact.

 

[JoyfulNoise]

Get a tool like the Filter Flosser. They help to get into the pleats. Also, you might try cleaning the filter elements with a soak in a large basin of water and either trisodium phosphate (TSP) or regular cascade powdered dishwasher detergent. You’ll need to soak them for a few hours, preferably overnight.

Cartridge Filter Use and Care - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Texas Splash]

My cart is about 9 years old. It is certainly discolored and looks similar to yours. There are a few glue spots separated from the bands around the pleats, but as long as it's holding together it's doing its job.

 

[dynamictiger]

The cartridge fails when it collapses. The pressure can build up and push it in effectively buckling the cartridge usually this happens about 3/4 the way up, but does not have to be in any particular position.

 

[wireform]

As long as there weren't any non recommended potions used and it's dirty because that's its job then a good water hose and or soak as @JoyfulNoise above.

 

[Oceansol]

I changed my filters yesterday (jandy cl460) and i hav a completely new pool. Mine were original 16 years old, and looked fine, but obviously weren't. Pool cleaner barely crept around, didn't climb sides, algae blooms, poor solar heating... bought a new set of filters ($160) and its like a new pool!

I will change filters at most every 3 to 5 yrars going forward. You should too

 

[newbie919]

My cart is about 9 years old. It is certainly discolored and looks similar to yours. There are a few glue spots separated from the bands around the pleats, but as long as it's holding together it's doing its job.

Splash did a deep dig into pleats of cartridge. Not much else except for what looks like sunscreen pollen crud. This look normal. First cleaning in 3 months.

 

[Texas Splash]

First cleaning in 3 months.

Seems a bit excessive for only 3 months. May wish to consider TSP soaking as Matt noted above in post 2.