Pool Cartridge Filter - 10 Tips to Last Longer

Does that pool filter cartridge need replacing yet again? It can get aggravating, so here are a few helpful tips to assist you in making that cartridge last longer and save you money.

1. Clean the elements regularly. When the pressure on the filter gauge reaches an operating pressure of 8-10 pounds above normal operating pressure it is time to clean. The duration between cleanings will vary depending on the bather load, physical surroundings and chemical balance of the swimming pool.
2. Do NOT allow excessive build-up of debris or dirt on the cartridge.Use a soft brush to clean the cartridge, NEVER use a stiff brush to clean the filter element as this can damage the pleated material or "media". 
3. Using a water hose nozzle or an attachement such as a "Water Wand" will also aid in cleaning the cartridge.
4. Never us a power washer to clean the filter element as the high pressure could easily damage the media or even puncture a hole in the pleated material thus rendering the cartridge useless. This includes the pressure cleaners at a car wash - those are a big no no!
5. Never use household bleach or acids to clean the pool filter element. Using a harsh chemical such as bleach or acid can damage the cartridge. In addition to damaging the media, it could damage the end caps. I am okay with using a little muriatic acid as long as you mix it 20 parts muriatic acid to 1 part water. *Always pour the acid into the water, not water to acid* But be advised that this is not my first choice! Using a spray cleaner that is designed for cleaning pool filter cartridges is strongly suggested.
6. Maintain proper water chemistry in the pool water.
7. Do not allow the pressure in the pool filter to rise about 8-10 pounds over normal operating pressure. Remember point 1 - when the pressure rises it's time to clean.
8. Alternate between two sets of cartridges in the pool filter. You can remove one set of cartridges from the filter to clean and install the backup set. This allows you plenty of time to clean the pool filter cartridge and to soak it in a solution to deep clean if needed. You can store the extra set in a shed or the garage so you are always prepared.
9. Use an enzyme treatment to break down the oils that build up on the filter cartridge. A good chemical spray cleaner or soak will dissolve oils, grease and fungi prior to cleaning the cartridge.
10. Place a Skimmer Sock or Filter Saver in the skimmer of your pool, this is a fine net material that fits into your skimmer trapping very small debris that would ordinarily escape trough the small holes in the skimmer and find their way into the cartridge thus prompting you to clean the cartridge, again. When the Skimmer Sock is full simply empty, rinse and reuse - or discard and replace with a new Skimmer Sock. Buying Skimmer Socks or Fiter Savers is drastically less expensive than replacing your pool filter cartridge.

I trust this has given you ideas on prolonging the life of your pool filter cartridge and in turn saving you time and money. Happy Swimming!

Debbie Daharsh has been in the pool business since 1999 and tries to help people with their pool filter cartridges through education and sales of cartridges. at http://poolcartridgedeals.com we offer pool filter cartridges as competitive rates while educating the consumer on our Resources Page. Please visit the website for all your pool filter needs including but not limited to cartridges, DE grids, tank o-rings, water wands, filter savers, etc.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debbie_S_Daharsh