{"id":657,"date":"2021-12-16T04:39:29","date_gmt":"2021-12-16T04:39:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/?p=124"},"modified":"2026-02-06T19:03:07","modified_gmt":"2026-02-06T08:03:07","slug":"how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridge In Six Easy Steps"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#Clean_Your_Pool_Filter_Cartridge\" >Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridge<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#When_should_I_clean_my_pool_filter_cartridge\" >When should I clean my pool filter cartridge?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#After_a_partygathering\" >After a party\/gathering<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#After_algae_treatment\" >After algae treatment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#After_excess_operation_pressure\" >After excess operation pressure<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#How_to_clean_your_filter\" >How to clean your filter<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#What_to_NOT_to_do_while_cleaning_your_cartridge\" >What to NOT to do while cleaning your cartridge<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-pool-filter-cartridge-in-six-easy-steps\/#How_do_I_know_when_it_is_time_to_replace_the_filter_element\" >How do I know when it is time to replace the filter element?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Clean_Your_Pool_Filter_Cartridge\"><\/span>Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridge<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>With a little bit of elbow grease, you could prolong the lifespan of your pool filter cartridge using this guide. Without minimal maintenance, your pool cartridge will develop a blockage in the element and strain your pump, reducing its lifespan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But don\u2019t worry, looking after your cartridge filter element is easy if you follow this step-by-step guide.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_I_clean_my_pool_filter_cartridge\"><\/span>When should I clean my pool filter cartridge?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like a car, you can get away with not maintaining your filter for a while, but eventually, it will catch up with you. One day, you might find your filter has stopped working and your water has gone filthy, forcing you to buy a replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> Therefore, we recommend cleaning your filter element every two weeks or a fortnight. If you want to throw caution to the wind when it comes to maintenance, then make sure you at least take action after the following scenarios:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"After_a_partygathering\"><\/span>After a party\/gathering<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When friends or family visit to enjoy your pool, your cartridge will be working overtime to keep conditions clean and safe. However, this also means excessive debris will be trapped, building up and affecting future use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"After_algae_treatment\"><\/span>After algae treatment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As a pool owner, you will likely have to treat algae build up at least once in your lifetime. Typically, you will need a chemical like<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/product\/515\/Zodiac-Pool-Algaecide-1L\"> Zodiac Pool Algaecide<\/a> to brush the algae away. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people don\u2019t realise that the algae debris is being sucked into the pool filtration system and clogging up your element. For this reason, it is vital that you clean your cartridge as your final algae treatment job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"After_excess_operation_pressure\"><\/span>After excess operation pressure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Have a look at your filter canister housing and take note of the PSI. Now consult your filter owners manual for the regular operation pressure. If the PSI is 8 PSI above the normal operating pressure, you will need to clean your cartridge. Why? Because the filter element is blocked and increasing the water pressure in your set-up. Instead of manually checking for build-up constantly, this little trick will save you time and energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_clean_your_filter\"><\/span>How to clean your filter<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Turn off your pump.<\/strong>\u00a0For safety reasons, if you are using an automated system, turn off your pool at the mains power. If the pump suddenly turns on while your fingers are inside the filter component, you could get hurt.\u00a0<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Remove the filter element.\u00a0<\/strong>This is located inside the filter housing \u2013 check the product manual for specific guidelines.\u00a0<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clean the debris.\u00a0<\/strong>Don\u2019t rush this step \u2013 thoroughly rinse the filter inside and out between the pleats with a garden hose. Products like the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/product\/1231\/Water-Wand-Swimming-Pool-And-Spa-Cartridge-Filter-Cleaner-Generic\">Water Wand<\/a>(see below)\u00a0save time by cleaning between the crevasses of eight pleats at a time.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Blow-dry the element.\u00a0<\/strong>Once the element is dry, use compressed air to remove small dirt particles.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Degrease.\u00a0<\/strong>This step is the premium \u201ccar wash\u201d option and is not necessary unless you want optimal performance from your pool filter. If you choose to use a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/product\/1604\/Spa-Poppits-Spa-Pipe-Degreaser-500ml\">degreaser\u00a0<\/a>every time you clean your cartridge, you will guarantee your filters effectiveness and lifespan. Soaking the cartridge in an approved cleaning solution will remove body fats, sunscreen, and other oils.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reassemble<\/strong>. Now that your filter components are nice and shiny, it\u2019s time to return them inside the filter tank. This may require reassembling any attachments you previously dismantled. Firmly set the top portion of the filter tank back into place and tightly close the clamping mechanism. Turn the air release valve back to the closed position and turn on the pump to ensure the normal functioning of your pool filtration system.<strong> Bonus points \u2013<\/strong> apply a silicon-based lubricant around the clamping mechanism to extend its life.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/product\/1231\/Water-Wand-Swimming-Pool-And-Spa-Cartridge-Filter-Cleaner-Generic\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/01-1.jpg\" alt=\"Water Wand \u2013 Swimming Pool And Spa Cartridge Filter Cleaner\" class=\"wp-image-128\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_NOT_to_do_while_cleaning_your_cartridge\"><\/span>What to NOT to do while cleaning your cartridge<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don<\/strong><strong>\u2019<\/strong><strong>t use a stiff brush.<\/strong><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>Cleaning pleats with a hard material may permanently damage them. Use a soft-bristle or a purpose-made brush designed to gently remove debris found in the material folds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don<\/strong><strong>\u2019<\/strong><strong>t use a power washer.<\/strong><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>Filter cartridges are often made of paper or a fine material and are therefore sensitive. The intensity of a power washer can quickly erode the mesh material down, reducing its effectiveness.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don\u2019t expect a white mesh.&nbsp;<\/strong>The most important sign of a clean filter is the absence of debris or excessive build-up that can block the filter system. Some discolouration is natural and it is unlikely you will achieve that factory white colour without&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/category\/cartridge-filter-elements\">buying a brand new filter cartridge.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_know_when_it_is_time_to_replace_the_filter_element\"><\/span>How do I know when it is time to replace the filter element?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As we mentioned previously, filter elements are made from thin materials to catch fine debris. Therefore, they cannot last forever. The shelf life for a standard filter in a pool or spa is between 6 &#8211; 8 months. For this reason, we recommend&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/category\/cartridge-filter-elements\">replacing your filter element<\/a>&nbsp;at least once a year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A good sign that your filter cartridge element is ready for replacement is when your operating pressure does not drop after cleaning the filter (see six easy steps above). This is because your filter has become too obscured to be effective, even when cleaned.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you heed the warning, you will begin to find excessive debris and cloudy or dirty pool water. Not very nice, especially if guests are visiting. The longer you go without replacing your filter element, the more contaminated water will be allowed to pass through your filtration system. So don\u2019t keep your filter cartridges forever.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bonus points <\/strong><strong>\u2013 <\/strong>you have already opened up your filter assembly for a clean, why not do a visual inspection on the whole unit while you\u2019re at it? Even small tears can be disastrous for water filtration efficiency. So, check for cracks in the plastic housing, tears in the pleats, or other signs of damage. Contact your manufacturers documentation for warranty information and a support phone number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-horizontal is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-499968f5 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-luminous-vivid-orange-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/category\/cartridge-filter-elements\"><strong>SHOP OUR CARTRIDGE FILTER ELEMENTS<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridge With a little bit of elbow grease, you could prolong the lifespan of your pool filter cartridge using this guide. Without minimal maintenance, your pool cartridge will develop a blockage in the element and strain your pump, reducing its lifespan. But don\u2019t worry, looking after your cartridge filter element is [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":589,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[17],"class_list":["post-657","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-how-to","tag-cartridge-filter-elements"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/657","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=657"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/657\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":674,"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/657\/revisions\/674"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/589"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=657"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=657"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bestpoolsupplies.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=657"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}