Why Rotate Filter Cartridges?

The cartridge in you pool filter should be cleaned every time the pressure gauge reaches 8 – 10 pounds above normal operating pressure.  For cleaning tips see “How Do I Clean My Pool or Spa Cartridge Filter?”

It is a good idea to have an extra back up cartridge on hand at all times. When you clean your pool cartridge or spa filter you will want to soak it to really get the grease, grime and oils off the filter media.  Sometimes this may mean soaking the cartridge for several hours or even overnight for better results.  You may not want to have your pool shut down or not be able to use your spa during this time.  With a back up cartridge you can place the dry back up cartridge in the filter while cleaning the one you just removed from the pool or spa filter.

Allowing the cartridge filter to dry out completely allows for even better cleaning.  This allows all living microorganisms to die off as they can’t live within a dry cartridge.  Once the filter element is dry you can take a soft bristle brush and brush off the loose dirt that did not come off while you were cleaning it with the hose or cleaning solution.  You may also take an air compressor and carefully blow off dirt that has stuck deep inside the pleats.  Since you have placed your extra backup cartridge in the filter you have time to treat this one properly and get it ready for the next use.  This will also prolong the life of your cartridge.

Following are some reasons to rotate your filter cartridges:

·         You are having a party and realize you need to clean your pool filter, you don’t have time but need your pool in prime operating condition…quick – go get your back up cartridge and put it in the pool or spa filter, and you can clean your dirty one later.

·         Your kid’s birthday swim party is in two days, you have to get the pool cleaned up, the filter is dirty – you take it out to clean it and remember that you really should have replaced this weeks ago it won’t last another cleaning, now what….Grab the backup cartridge, throw the old cartridge away, after the party get on line and go to http://www.poolcartridgedeals.com/index.aspx and buy a new backup cartridge that will be shipped to your door in just a few days. 

·         You go to clean your cartridge, boy is it a mess!  You remember that the last cartridge you cleaned was dried and put in the garage, go get the backup cartridge, rotate it in use this cycle and now you can take your time cleaning the dirty cartridge properly and allow it to dry properly.