Do you notice your pool water looking a little cloudy lately? Nothing ruins a sunny afternoon faster than a dip in murky, uninviting water. Your pool’s cartridge filter is the unsung hero that keeps your swimming space sparkling clear, but it only works if it stays clean. When debris clogs the pleats, your pump has to work twice as hard, and your water quality takes a major hit.
Many pool owners feel overwhelmed by the process of cleaning their filters. You might wonder if you need expensive chemicals, special tools, or a professional service to get the job done right. It is easy to worry about damaging the delicate fabric or scrubbing away the filter’s efficiency. The good news is that you do not need to be a pool expert to maintain a pristine system. Proper cleaning is actually much simpler than most people think, and it saves you a fortune in repair costs over time.
In this guide, we will walk you through the most effective ways to clean your cartridge filter step-by-step. You will learn how to spot the signs of a clogged filter, the best tools to use, and how to extend the life of your equipment. By the time you finish reading, you will have the confidence to tackle this chore like a pro. Let’s dive into the simple steps you need to get your pool back to crystal-clear perfection.
Top Way To Clean A Pool Cartridge Filter Recommendations
- DESIGNED AND BUILT FOR LONG LIFE AND USE: The Aqua Comb body is made of UV protected ABS plastic and the comb and barrel valve are UV protected nylon
- FULLY CLEAN YOUR POOL FILTER: Only device that fully cleans a deep pleated cartridge filter used by pool services and homeowners
- REMOVE PARTICLES FROM POOL FILTER: Removes debris and dust from desert storms and marcite repairs. The Aqua Comb also has a 304 S.S. 30 mesh screen hose seal to avoid clogs
- HIGH WATER PRESSURE: Water pressure operating range is 35 lbs/sq.in. to 55 lbs/sq.in. Water spray is 2 times more powerful and shoots spray 30’ ( length of pool)
- WORKS WITH SALT & CHLORINE: Works great on both salt and chlorine based water filter systems
- Perfect Match: Compatible with Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420/160301/178584 pool filter. Replace Pentair R173576, Pleatco PCC105/PCC105-PAK4, Waterway Crystal Water 425, Unicel C-7471/C-7471-4, Filbur FC-1977, Pure N Clean PC-1977/PC-1977P/PC-6470 and more. Filter Dimensions: Length: 26"; Outside Diameter: 7"; Top & Bottom Openings: 3"
- NSF/ANSI 50 Certified: Tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI 50 for the use of safe materials. The trilobal pleated design captures 3x more debris than regular fabric, efficiently trapping leaves, hair, sand, and oils for cleaner water
- Easy Maintenance: Trilobal structure repels large particles from entering the inside of CCP420 filter, ensuring they are spread out and preventing stains from building up in any one area. This design allows for easy and thorough rinsing
- Extremely Enduring: CCP420 pool filter cartridge features spunbond polyester and a strong inner core, making it capable of withstanding high-pressure water flow and enduring enough to be a worthwhile investment for your pool
- Economical Pool Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and reusing the filter cartridge is a simple way to minimize water usage. We recommend cleaning the cartridge monthly to maximize its effectiveness and ensure a clean swimming experience
- Perfect Match: Compatible with Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 320/160340/178580 pool filter. Replacement for Pleatco PCC80/PCC80-PAK4, Pentair R173573, Unicel C-7470, Filbur FC-1976/FC-6465 and more. All manufacturers' names and part numbers are used for compatibility information only
- NSF/ANSI 50 Certified: Tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI 50 for the use of safe materials. The trilobal pleated design captures 3x more debris than regular fabric, efficiently trapping leaves, hair, sand, and oils for cleaner water
- Dimension: With an outer diameter of 7'', inner diameter of 3'' and a height of 20-1/16'', CCP320 pool filter cartridge can be easily installed in your filter without worrying about leaks or compatibility issues
- Extremely Enduring: CCP320 pool filter cartridge features spunbond polyester and a strong inner core, making it capable of withstanding high-pressure water flow and enduring enough to be a worthwhile investment for your pool
- Economical Pool Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and reusing the filter cartridge is a simple way to minimize water usage. We recommend cleaning the cartridge monthly to maximize its effectiveness and ensure a clean swimming experience
- SAVE TIME: Pool cleaning can be a real chore! Aquatix Pro Premium Cartridge Cleaner removes debris and dirt effortlessly for a clean flow of water.
- EFFORTLESS: The heavy duty Pool Filter Cleaner gets the job done faster, have your filter cleaned and running in seconds!
- BUILT TO LAST: Buy once and never look back! Deluxe Spa Cartridge Cleaner ensures no damage to your filters.
- COMPATIBLE: Designed to be compatible with most standard pool filters (filter not included).
- OUR PROMISE: We go the extra mile to ensure you are fully satisfied with your purchase. With the Aquatix Pro satisfaction promise you get one year warranty on all our products. If you are not satisfied we will refund you the full price, no questions asked!
- Perfect Match: Compatible with Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 520/160332/178585 pool filter. Replacement for Pentair R173578, Unicel C-7472/C-7472RA, Filbur FC-1978/FC-6475, Pure N Clean PC-1978/PC-6475, etc. All manufacturers' names and part numbers are used for compatibility reference
- NSF/ANSI 50 Certified: Tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI 50 for the use of safe materials. The trilobal pleated design captures 3x more debris than regular fabric, efficiently trapping leaves, hair, sand, and oils for cleaner water
- Dimension: With an outer diameter of 7'', inner diameter of 3-1/16'' and a height of 32'', CCP520 pool filter cartridge can be easily installed in your filter without worrying about leaks or compatibility issues
- Extremely Enduring: CCP520 pool filter cartridge features spunbond polyester and a strong inner core, making it capable of withstanding high-pressure water flow and enduring enough to be a worthwhile investment for your pool
- Economical Pool Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and reusing the filter cartridge is a simple way to minimize water usage. We recommend cleaning the cartridge monthly to maximize its effectiveness and ensure a clean swimming experience
- Pack of 4 Premium Quality Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges that are compatible with all above-ground pools and pumps that use type A or C filters, as well as type III filters. Filter cartridges replace Intex 59900E and 29000E filter cartridges
- The filters are made with premium quality polyethylene terephthalate fibers for advanced superior cleaning, as they provide crystal clear water filtration. Filters contain a durable hard plastic iner core that is collapse-resistant
- For use in pool pumps that range from 530 gallons per hour to 2,000 gallons per hour. For best performance, replace the filter every two weeks. Filters are washable easy to replace and clean filter cartridges with long service lives
- Filters are compatible with several brands of cartridge filter pumps. Intex models: 28603EG (603), 28637EG (637R), 28635EG (635T), 604/G, 636T/G, 638R/G. Bestway models: 58384(E), 58387, 58388E, 58389, 58390(E). Summer Waves models: RX1000, RX1500, RP800, RP1000, RP1500, RP2000, SFS1000, SFS1500, SFS2000, CP2000-C.
- Filter dimensions: 8" high x 4.25" diameter with a nearly 2" diameter center hole
- EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS: Introducing Tillbrook Pool Filter Cleaner—the best choice for removing dirt, grease, hard water buildup, oils, sunscreen, and residue in pool filters. It’s essential to clean pool filters at least every 3-4 months to ensure proper functioning of your pool equipment and to maintain clean water.
- 6 MONTH SUPPLY: Our concentrated formula is easy to use and provides remarkable value with 2-4 cleanings per bottle depending on filter size and grime level.
- SCIENTIFICALLY ENGINEERED: Our advanced cleaning solution is carefully crafted with powerful, all-natural ingredients that removes dirt, grease, and other unwanted buildup, ensuring longevity and optimal performance without damaging your equipment or contaminating your swimming pool water.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Our pool filter cleaner can be used with cartridge, sand, and DE filters, as well as spa filters.
- STRESS-FREE MAINTENANCE: No one wants dirty water or a broken pool pump – keep a clean and well-functioning pool by deep cleaning your pool filter every three months, and consider light, spray cleanings during heavy pool use or between guests.
- ✔ CONVENIENT MAINTENANCE – A must have cartridge to the INTEX Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump, this filter cartridge is made with easy-to-clean Dacron paper for the ultimate filtration
- ✔ FILTER PUMP COMPATIBILITY – For best use and results, the filter cartridge A by INTEX is compatible for filter pump models in of the following: 28603EG, 28637EG and 28635EG
- ✔ ROUTINE USAGE – For maximum efficiency and results for your above ground pool, the recommendation is to replace cartridges every two weeks for a clean and happy pool
- ✔ HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY – It's all in the bubbles; patented HydroAeration Technology by INTEX when using our filtration systems improves overall water circulation, clarity, and freshness in thousands of above ground pools
- ✔ SAFETY, QUALITY and VALUE – Intex designs, builds, and tests all its products to the highest standards with safety the first order of business; our affordable and innovative products are built to last
The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Pool Cartridge Filter
Keeping your pool water crystal clear depends on your filter. A cartridge filter acts as the heart of your pool system. Over time, it traps dirt, oils, and debris. If you do not clean it, your pump works too hard and your water turns cloudy. Follow this guide to keep your pool sparkling all season long.
Key Features to Look For
When you choose a replacement cartridge, look for high-quality pleats. More pleats mean more surface area. A good filter will have a strong center core that does not collapse under high water pressure. Check if the end caps are made of durable, molded plastic. These parts prevent water from leaking around the filter.
Important Materials
The best filters use high-quality spun-bound polyester. This material is tough and resists tearing. It also holds onto dirt better than cheap paper filters. Some premium filters include antimicrobial protection. This feature stops mold and bacteria from growing inside the pleats. Always avoid cheap, thin paper filters, as they break down quickly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things change how well your filter works. A filter will last longer if you keep your pool chemicals balanced. High calcium levels can clog the fabric quickly. Heavy rain or wind also forces the filter to work harder. Proper cleaning is the biggest factor for quality. If you spray the filter too hard with a pressure washer, you will rip the fabric. This ruins the filter instantly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Cleaning your filter should be a simple task. A well-designed cartridge is easy to remove from the housing. You should rinse the pleats with a garden hose using a spray nozzle. If the filter is very oily, use a special pool filter cleaner spray. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly. Most homeowners find that cleaning the filter once a month keeps the pool running smoothly. If you have a large family or lots of trees nearby, you may need to clean it every two weeks.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my pool filter?
A: You should clean it when the pressure gauge on your pump rises 8-10 PSI above the starting level.
Q: Can I use a pressure washer on my filter?
A: It is not recommended. A pressure washer can tear the fabric and destroy the filter pleats.
Q: When is it time to buy a new cartridge?
A: Replace your cartridge every 12 to 24 months, or if the fabric looks grey and frayed even after cleaning.
Q: Should I use soap to clean the filter?
A: No. Regular soap can cause your pool water to foam. Only use cleaners made specifically for pool filters.
Q: What is the best way to rinse the pleats?
A: Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle. Angle the water at 45 degrees to push dirt out from between the pleats.
Q: Does a clean filter save me money?
A: Yes. A clean filter allows water to flow easily. This reduces the strain on your pump and lowers your electricity bill.
Q: Can I soak the filter in a cleaning solution?
A: Yes. Soaking the filter in a filter cleaner solution helps remove stubborn body oils and sunscreen buildup.
Q: Why is my water still cloudy after cleaning?
A: If the water stays cloudy, your filter might be too old, or your pool water chemistry might be off balance.
Q: Do I need to turn off the pump before removing the filter?
A: Always turn off the pump and release the air pressure before you open the filter housing.
Q: Can I wash my filter in a dishwasher?
A: Never put your pool filter in a dishwasher. The heat and harsh chemicals will damage the cartridge material.