How To Clean Your Pool Filter Cartridge

With proper maintenance, Excel Filter cartridges can last even longer! We recommend routinely cleaning your filter cartridges every 3-6 months or when your filter housing pressure gauge increases 8-10 PSI above the clean filter’s starting pressure.

---

Here are step-by-step instructions for cleaning your Excel Filters:

• Important! Turn off your pool pump. Never work on your pool equipment while it is running.
• If equipped in your pool’s plumbing system, close inlet and outlet isolation valves to prevent gravity flow into the filter vessel. Many pump and filtration systems are built above pool level and may not require this step.
• Slowly open the air relief valve to remove air from the filter housing. This will remove pressure from the system, removing the risk of injury or damage to the filter.
• Pool filter housings and their assembly vary by make and model. Remove any clamps or holdings to release the top cover of the housing. Once open, remove the top plate of the filter manifold if servicing a multi-filter housing. Consult your filter housing owner’s manual for any questions.
• Remove the filter cartridge(s) and set them aside. Inspect cartridges for any visible cracks in the plastic, tears in the pleats or any signs of significant wear or damage. *Even small tears can affect performance. If your filter has been in service for a considerable amount of time and is showing signs of damage, it may be time to replace it.
• Clean the filter cartridge using a garden hose. A spray nozzle for increased cleaning pressure is preferable. Spray at an angle to get between each of the pleats, while motioning from top to bottom. Hose the inside of the cartridge(s) as well. *We recommend purchasing a spare filter(s) so your filtration system can continue to run during cleaning. Alternating the sets of filter cartridges during the cleaning process will keep your system optimally running.
• Flip the cartridge(s) over and repeat, rinsing from top to bottom.
• Once clean, return filter cartridges to the filter housing and secure them.
• Set the top of your filter back in place and secure the assembly. Make sure the unit is sealed properly.
• Open any isolation valves (if closed in step 2) so that the filter housing is placed back into service with the pool plumbing. Check for leaks.
• Turn on the pump and open the filter’s air relief valve to release any excess air in the system. When water sprays out of the valve at a steady rate, there is no more air in the system. Check the filter pressure to make sure it’s falling within the proper range for your filter when it’s clean. *If your system stays at the same pressure as before cleaning, it may be time to replace your filter(s). Over time, the pressure drop experienced after cleaning will become less and less, indicating that it is time to replace your filter.

• 😎

  Relax, and enjoy your sparkling clean pool!

---

Some Helpful Tips:

• If the cartridge is very dirty you may want to soak it overnight in filter cleaner. Cleaner can be purchased at your local pool supply store. Soak in a large plastic bucket or trashcan.
• Never use a power washer to clean your cartridge(s). This will cause significant damage. A garden hose is sufficient.