When you are trying to determine what type of pool filter cartridge to buy or how to clean your existing one, here are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, there are three types of pool filter cartridges to consider.
- Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.)
- Sand (middle filter)
- Cartridge (Last Filter)
Overall, swimming pool filter cartridges need to be sized correctly regardless of type or brand. You can never go wrong with this as the overriding determination for pool filter replacement cartridges. If any doubt persists always go with a slightly larger filter.
The problem with inheriting an existing pool and making it look nice is evaluating the swimming pool cartridge filter. Early on when pools were installed, especially in the 1970′s and 1980′s size was not considered important. Add to this the age of the pool cartridge filter and you’ve barely got a pool that can be maintained properly.
Brand, color style, size and name easily sway our decisions about pool replacement filters. Manufacturing technology is very good these days as the competition for pool filters is intense. The key to your selection again should be to purchase the appropriate size filter. This is important because you want to inhibit bacterial growth with as much antimicrobial protection possible. This helps eliminate odors, rust stains and stress on the filter’s ability to do the job it was installed to perform.
Water treatment is important to the overall maintenance scheme as well and should be adhered to rigorously.
Measuring a cartridge is straightforward. Remember size matters most so this is a vital first step. When you measure your filter cartridge replacement it needs to be measured from the outside diameter. End cap to end cap will ensure you get the right measurements. Threaded bottoms and handles need not be included in this measurement. You’re after the functioning part of the filter regardless of the installation convenience attributes the manufacturer has decided to use.
Next, determine what the end cap configuration looks like. This will help you narrow the selection process when you actually go in to replace the swimming pool cartridge filter. Identify the cap accurately by looking for such features as threaded handles or open ended sides. For the open side, measure the inner diameter of the hole. Counting the pleats will also help identify the correct replacement cartridge. Once these few steps are accomplished you’re ready to replace your cartridge with the right size, configuration and style.
Next we want to look at maintenance. Cleaning your pool cartridge filters regularly is as important as replacing it and knowing when it needs replacing. A cartridge needs to be replaced when the pressure gauge on the filter reaches about 8 p.s.i. above pressure. The pressure rating is recorded on the new cartridge so you have a reference point. Another way to ascertain when the cartridge needs replacing is observance of a decrease in the pressure. When the stream jets are clogged this decrease is noticeable and you’ll know it is time to replace the cartridge or just give it another cleaning.
Use a garden hose to dislodge any debris found after you have removed the cartridge from the filter canister. No high pressure streams are needed and should not be used as this could damage exposed components. Cartridge cleaning solutions are readily available and should be used to soak the cartridge so that any other residue such as oils and foreign organics are removed. Household bleach can be used to soak the cartridge overnight if tough stains are still present.
After you’re pleased with the stain removal process, rinse the pool filter cartridge with clean water and reinsert into the filter tank. Restart your filtration system after securing the tank lid and other components per manufactures specifications.
Always follow the manufactures guidelines to maintain warranties and have your filtration system operating properly. These quick guidelines should help you decide the correct size pool filter cartridge you need for maximum efficiency and carefree maintenance.