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Home-pool filters
Maintain cartridge filters
Cartridge filters are the easiest types of filters to service. All
you need to do is remove the cartridge components, soak them, hose
them, and put them back in the proper place. But the only choices
for cartridge filters are cleaning or replacing. They cannot be
cleaned by backwashing like the D.E. or sand filters. For this
reason you need to adequately maintain your cleaning routine with
the cartridge filters.
You will know when it is time to service your cartridge when the
pressure rises to 8 to 10 psi above the baseline. Check with your
instruction manual for a detailed maintenance routine. Your
cartridges typically will be soaked overnight for a proper cleaning,
so the system should be left off during that time. Although if you
are familiar with all of the technical aspects of your filter, you
may replace the elements at each cleaning and rotate them from the
filter tank to the back for soaking. When it is time to restart the
circulation system remember to release the air pressure.
First of all, take off the lid. While the pump is off and the
pressure-release valve is open, loosen or unscrew the clamp and
remove the tank ring clamp. You may need to use some leverage on the
lip of the lid before cautiously removing it. Do not force the lid
out.
Next you need to remove the cartridges, either one at a time or all
at once. Unscrew the wing nuts and lift the cartridges out. If you
think that the manifold is leaking you need to take out the entire
assembly to look at it. To do so, review the instruction manual from
the manufacturer.
Put the cartridges in a special soaking solution consisting of water
and trisodium phosphate (TSP). To fix this solution combine about
three cups of TSP into a 32-gallon drum or a water tight plastic
trash barrel. After soaking the components for one to three days,
rinse them off with a high-pressure hose.
Examine the cartridges to see if there is any damage such as tears
or holes that would impede the filtration process. After the
cartridges are clean, they should appear white or light gray in
color. Then put the cartridges back in their assembly correctly.
They should fit securely on the manifold fittings. Then reapply the
wing nut or fastening device. You may find that it is easier to put
together the unit outside the tank. Check your directions from the
manufacturer to be sure the manifold is hooked up to the internal
fittings properly.
The O-ring and ring clamp parts should be inspected for wear and
tear. If you notice any weakening at all, the part should be
immediately replaced. If the parts are in good working order, merely
clean the ring clamp and lip of the lid. Then replace the lip by
using manual pressure to firmly set it in place. You may lean on the
lid, but do not bend it as you press down on it. Then replace the
clamp ring in the proper position and tighten the assembly according
to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Remember to make sure the air-release valve is open before you start
the pump. You will know it is open when you see a stream of water
come out.
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