Cartridge_Filter Page1

CARTRIDGE (ELEMENT) FILTERS

Cartridge filters consist of a tank that contains 1 or more pleated elements

or cartridges where dirt and debris of 25-100

microns

in size are trapped

within the pleats. Minimal maintenance and less water loss than filters

requiring backwashing are advantages unique to the cartridge filter.

Cartridge filters do not require backwashing but the cartridge element itself

is removed and cleaned, generally every 6 months or 1 to 2 times per

season. Cartridge filters utilize the debris they collect as an aid to improve

filtration. As a result, cleaning too often does not allow the filter to work at

optimum filtration efficiency, while not cleaning often enough will shorten

the life of a cartridge element. When the pressure gauge rises 8 to 10 psi above the “normal”

or starting reading you should follow the steps below to remove and clean the cartridge

element or follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided with your filter. The cartridge

element should generally be replaced every 3 seasons (or when cleaning no longer allows

adequate flow and reduced pressure).

General Cleaning Instructions for Cartridge filters

1. Shut off pump & motor.

IMPORTANT

Release pressure in the tank by loosening the air relief bleeder valve.

Cartridge filters operate under high pressure. When any part of the circulating system (e.g. Lock ring,

pump, filter, valves, etc.) is serviced, air can enter the system and become pressurized. Pressurized air

can cause the lid to blow off which can result in severe injury, death, or property damage.

3. Remove filter top or lid.

4. Remove cartridge element and thoroughly hose element top to bottom holding the

nozzle at a 45 degree angle, and wash all the pleats with emphasis between pleats

using a high-pressure hose.

5. Soaking the cartridge element in a filter cleaner several hours or overnight will

provide a thorough cleaning.

DO NOT

use a filter cleaner or TSP (tri sodium

phosphate) if using a biguanide sanitizer such as Baquacil® or Soft Swim®. If a

biguanide program is used as a sanitizer, the filter element must be cleaned

with a biguanide filter cleaner before any cartridge cleaner is used.

If trisodium

phosphate (TSP) or any TSP type cleaner is used a gum-like substance will

form. Once this occurs, the substance cannot be removed from the media and

the filter cartridge must be replaced.

6. Rinse cartridge element and replace in tank.

IMPORTANT

Release pressure in the tank by loosening the air relief bleeder valve,

leave open until pump is on and a steady stream of water runs out.

8. Replace filter top and secure lock ring.

Cartridge elements should generally be replaced every 3 years. When cleaning the cartridge

no longer provides a decrease in pressure and increased return flow it may be time to replace

the cartridge element. Refer to the manufacturers’ owners manuals on the following page for

detailed instructions on cleaning, maintenance and winterizing of a cartridge filter.