Pool Filter Cartridge Cleaning - Finally Figured it Out!

[@nickpshelley6115]

I love people like you. Curious and inventive. Maybe even extreme at times. That's how we got to the moon.

[@Rhondwen]

I know lots of people are saying to just do it more often and I know that would be easier(and my plan for the future). But this was the video that worked for me to get *really dirty* filters back to looking good. Thanks for doing a video for those of us who aren't dealing with the ideal conditions I saw in so many other videos.

[@christ6370]

Pin this to the top please. WARNING: Always Degrease/TSP filters before acid soak. The acid will make the oils/lotions sticky and absorb into the filters possibly permanently. Recommend starting acid dilution is 20:1, really only need to soak till no more bubbles are coming up. After soak add baking soda slowly to neutralize acid mix. Acid will whitewash/etch concrete. Should use separate trash can for initial quick rinse. A great nozzle I use is the pulsating Melnor Mpact. Please thumbs up 👍 this comment to keep it at the top.

[@FilipinoPride10]

Thank you

[@stevenpriefer5039]

How do you decrease them

[@tyroneshoelace4872]

I am wondering if the time, the cost of chemicals (who knows how you dispose of the chemical water) is better than buying g new filters.

[@chrisbaier6252]

Not sure if you mentioned, but don’t let the filters dry out before cleaning. (Like if you have 2 sets and swap out a clean set, don’t let the old set dry before cleaning.)

[@fredswanson9079]

I've been a pool man in south Florida for 25 years and we clean filters once a month no exceptions if you do this your pool runs more efficiently and they never get that bad. And they last twice as long

[@T_B_C_L]

Wow, this is crazy. I've been cleaning these filters for 20 years and have never done anything so elaborate. I use a 1500 psi pressure washer and in about an hour or so my filters look as good as yours. I agree you don't want to use a high power pressure washer and you definitely need to use a 45°fan nozzle but that's about the only caution you need. No chemicals no huge water waste just clean filters. It's really easy to tell how clean your filters are when you have 0 pressure on your Guage after cleaning and pressurizing the system.

[@mattg6975]

You're actually supposed to soak the filters in muriatic acid mixed with water minimum 1 part acid to 5 parts water every so often to extend the life of the filters and let them breathe for better performance. Carbon buildup and other things like no phosphorous treatments or algae can clog the tiny pores between the fibers of the pleats. Yes it is technically a waste of water.

[@joshspeed7794]

@@mattg6975 overkill. Just hose them off. Ten years of owning a pool and I change my filters once every 2-3 years and have never soaked them or had any problems. All of that extra effort, chemicals to dispose of, and quite frankly risk is so silly. Next...

[@brianbickham3374]

Pressure washer can damage the pleats on the filters

[@rickj6048]

After 15 yrs with a DE filter I switched to cartridge for 15 yrs, now I'm back to a new 48 sq.ft Hayward DE. It filters better and a simple backwash and rinse with the 6 way valve every 2 or 3 months is easy. I hated cleaning the cartridges and having to replace them often because they eventually get clogged up and the pressure is high again in only a few days. Tip for those that want to stay with cartridges: Pay a little extra for Haywards instead of Pleatco and other off brands. There is a big difference.

[@donpollock533]

I stand the filters on an umbrella post for stability. It works great! 4:57

[@jodisimpson1132]

@donpollock533 this sounds interesting. Is there a way you could tell/show me more about how this is done? Maybe a video link or photos?

[@5toed-lizard.]

It doesn’t take long if you clean the filters more often. I bought a nozzle just for cleaning filters it has I believe six little sprayers that fit in between that pleads of the filter does a very good job. Does not use much water and does not take long. I’ve been a pool alarm for 15 years now and watching your video I would empty my pool and fill up with dirt if I had to go through that much trouble.

[@krg038]

I rinse mine well then a white vinegar bath for 2 days in a large dollar store pitcher( holds 2 filters) Same results. I rotate mine before they get bad. Maintain my pool but still need clean filters in the summer more often. Been using the same set of filters for years.

[@TexasNightRider]

I really appreciated this video. I've had a DE filter for 20 years and considered switching to cartridge. Think I'm going to stay with DE. Thanks again.

[@kirkwilson5905]

Good choice. Hayward makes DE filters with cartridge size/shape DE filter grids. You can actually use either. We use the paper filters for new pool start up, then install the DE filter grids and load the media. More expensive up front as you need a backwash line piped to an approved drain. Plus the filter valve. But in the long run easier and better filtration. Occasionally you still need to pull the grids and clean then just like this video.

[@grzewnicki]

Pentair clean and clear: cartridge filter that is designed to work with DE. Filters down to 5 micron, I'll never go back to just cartridge, my pool stays sparkling clean, whereas with just plain cartridge I would see sediment on bottom weekly. Also, vacuuming up algae, it does not go through the DE. In the past vacuuming algae w/just cartridge, you would see a slight green tint coming out the return into the pool.

[@TexasNightRider]

@@grzewnicki Thank you.

[@lukephung]

My filter has the same 4 cartridges. Pentair quad 100 DE. And they do require DE powder (10 lbs suggested for 100 sq in surface area). Are you saying I don't need DE for this type of filter/cartridge?

[@kirkwilson5905]

@@lukephung There are both types of cartridges available. DE and Non-DE. Make sure what you have/need. The video is regarding the Non-DE type.

[@g-wolf9445]

I think this a great cleaning process if you have two sets of filter cartridges. At least, for those of us in the South, this creates less down time for the pool. Unfortunately I have too much wildlife in my area to leave the cleaning solutions out overnight so I would have to do the different cleaning phases over a couple of days. Thank you for sharing.

[@FryChicken]

I use a very similar process. For the acid, neutralize it with baking soda (buy a big bag at sam's or a pool supply place) before dumping it out . Baking soda turns the HCl into saltwater. Just add it until it stops fizzing. I use a pressure washer and then a regular garden hose sprayer attachment. The pressure washer gets the initial surface gunk. The TSP PF is new to me, I'll give that a try.

[@hughbrackett343]

What I've found that works best so far is a ball valve shutoff, which lives on the end of my hose anyway. I crack it open and adjust it for the most forceful steam. It's at least twice as fast as a jet nozzle. I also have one of those car wash sprays that I'm planning to give a try.

[@stanbarnes7786]

Thanks for taking the time for the video and I can tell you're very serious about this, sounds like it's been beating you up a bit. I have the Pentair 200 sqft Cartridge Filter and it's at least five years old, here since I bought the house. Once every few weeks I remove the filter and use a garden hose with a regular multi position spray nozzle set on a spray/fan not jet setting, takes about 20ish minutes taking my time. My filter, depending on the weather, storms etc, could get totally disgusting and still look like new when finished, no exaggeration. I'm not sure how long you're waiting to clean those filters, but if you're replacing them because you can't get them clean enough, maybe you should step up the cleaning a bit. No chemicals, clean it while it's wet, put it back together, purge the air and you're done. Like one other person mentioned, if I had to go through everything you're going through, I'd either hire a pool company or fill it in with dirt and be done with it...

[@birdsnest7883]

I have 4 filters and it would take me two hrs to do this way. I use a comb which connects at the end of the hose which I highly recommend.

[@kammhron]

Nice job, they look new. I really don't know why anyone would buy a cartridge filter, except for the initial cost savings. The labor & water usage is huge.

[@Izaik]

You’re essentially draining water from your pool every time you backwash a sand or DE filter. Plus with DE, you have to recharge the grids with about 80% of the filter’s DE capacity after each backwash. Sand wears out over time and a sand change will cost you about $1/lb. A typical residential sand filter holds 300-450 lbs of sand. Oh, and when a sand change is performed, there’s always a risk of the laterals breaking. This is especially true if pea gravel was not put down first before the sand. So you’re gonna need new laterals plus labor. Oh, looks like you have a leak at the bulkhead and one at the dome cap too. Lots of calcium buildup. I think I see a crack forming in the fiberglass shell. Shall I continue? 😂

[@justinhoskins9653]

No idea mate cartridge filters mostly get cleaned once a month takes 15 minutes wayyyt better the sand

[@Streetbob07]

I couldn't wait to get rid of my sand filter , cartridge is way better and your not backwashing water and chems out of pool .

[@jonkirkwood469]

I clean mine once each year, when I close the pool, rather they need it or not. Going on 14 years for the current set. dP across the filter varies maybe a pound or two.

[@HaydonRyan]

For cleaning I have also thought about using a 4x broad diameter pvc pipe to be the soaking containers for these cartridges, but not sure if PVC pipe comes in 8" diametere. (filters are 7"), and not sure if PVC would be acid / TSP safe.

[@oliverscutt]

I use a conventional garden hose sprayer set to a fan shape and work vertically to get the debris out upending the filter part way through. I then soak in concrete degreaser (alkali, not acid) then rinse off. I get similar results.

[@IndialanticRob]

Exactly

[@RegularJoes]

I've been using a very similar spray nozzle for cleaning my filters for about 8 years. Only differences with mine is the wand part is longer and where I think mine works better is the spray pattern is more of a fan rather than yours is a skinny stream

[@pauljay2305]

I saw another guys channel on here where does the muriatic acid bath process but after he’s done he pour out the solution into his pool and says the uses acid will also help the pool too. He doesn’t pour in the sediment of course- what did you do with your bath solution when done?

[@g4l430]

Like others, I have a lot of thoughts on how to improve on this but let's face it, we all have different conditions to contend with. So I'll limit it my suggestion to one thing. For the first step of 1 (say 1a) use a standard garden hose sprayer and go around once with a wider spray to get 70% out then do another pass with your attachment (step 1b). This will save at least 25% time and it is much more gentle on filter. That is, first pass rinses away dirt while second pass forces out embedded dirt.

[@Gourockian1]

I use a cheap multi-jet nozzle on the garden hose and set it to 'Flat' for cleaning my 100 sq ft cartridge filter. If I neglect the pool for a couple of weeks, it is sometimes as bad as the 'before' condition shown in the video but it only takes me about 10 -15 minutes to get it looking like the 'after' condition. Admittedly, my filter is not quite as tall but that time includes a second pass with the filter turned upside down then sometimes a third quick pass to clear any remaining debris. The secret is to use the nozzle about 6-inches approx. from the cartridge, using an up and down sweep. There's no way that you can EVENLY clean a whole filter using the narrow power jet and that is very obvious by the streaky finish after the 30-minute marathon session. I've never found any need to do any further filter cleaning so my pool is back up and running in about 20 minutes. Sorry to be a bit negative but I think you are wasting a lot of time and money (water, acid and TCP) when in less than 30 minutes you could achieve the same result.

[@e92miami]

Those filters look like they haven't been cleaned in months. I clean mine with a regular garden hose nozzle in the jet setting every 14 days and it's like new after. Never a need for all those products.

[@JosefwitdaCoatOn]

Every 2 weeks! 🤣 you gotta be bored

[@Cardboard0G]

@@JosefwitdaCoatOncartridge filters are so easy to clean and since they can’t be backwashed, the more frequent the better especially if you have oak trees or dirty rainwater runoff like one of my customers. Her carts need monthly cleaning or the pool looks filthy

[@HaydonRyan]

Mine were dirtier then these after all the pollen dropped and 3 months of build up. I didn’t use any chemicals and got the flow back to exactly what it was before. But then everyone has different pools, in different places. But I also didn’t try and get them absolutely pristine. Mostly clean is good enough, esp when replacements aren’t too expensive.

[@JC05239]

Agree with E92. I clean mine with a pressure comb brush attached to the hose every 2 to 4 weeks and literally takes me only 5 minutes to do and pool is always super clean along with the filters.

[@HaydonRyan]

@@JC05239 I feel like there is a time vs money argument here - new filters are ~$162 in tax delivered for my pool filter. Pool services charge $200+ to do a filter clean. It takes me 2.5 hours to do a clean from green to clear. It's cheaper to just swap the filters for new ones (not that I do that). But it does make me think - swap for a spare set then clean over the next 4 weeks or so, one filter per week so the grass gets more water....

[@slater1182]

I use an old toothbrush to help open up the pleats. Brush also helps to loosen the debris for the hose water.

[@justintime4466]

The pool filter flosser attachment is a helpful tool to clean the cartridge. The nozzle he used packs more punch but I also worry about the damage to an aging filter

[@randymacsgarage]

Awesome thats cool man I appreciate the effort that you put into this im a been there done that old guy had a pool for 40 years and your information is SPOT on buddy ! And oh the old acid can be diluted down more and used on your lawn to help break down certain materials its really harmless great stuff thanks

[@AmericanConstellation]

Soak it with Simple Green first. It will clean and degrease the filter. You get oil on the filter from people getting in the pool with sun tan oils on.

[@starhopper457]

I've wondered about gently powerwashing with Simple Green - using a 10-25' nozzle so the pressure is reduced.

[@kevinkeys3578]

Place the filters in a small feeder trough to soak! (i.e., horizontally! - not vertically) Far less water, acid, TSP! Just my observation

[@danielthommen8243]

Where did you dump the acid bath water?

[@josemoreno3334]

A made a wand from some plumbing parts i bought a Lowes. When i hooked it to my water hose. I was able to clean all four filters quickly in 45 minutes. I sprayed a cartridge cleaner on all four filters first. Then cleaned them off. Did not need acid and they came out clean and the looked almost new. The filters are about three years old😀

[@JunkAccount-ig8st]

Just following step 1 by thoroughly spraying in between all the pleates of my filter made a huge difference in my pump's pressure. Thank you!!!

[@RandySweazy]

You're not supposed to use direct streams of water. You should use a fan setting.. That kind of pressure will damage the pleats and imbed dirt in the fabric

[@pierreverdoni]

Exactly ...Plus the wand is spraying only 1/2 inch at a time .......no wonder it takes 30 mins each

[@microsfan]

Have you tried just starting with the acid bath, and then rinsing pleat by pleat?

[@MrBlotsalot]

..."quite a few hours" he says towards the end in a huge understatement. I have been using a pressure washer for about 20 years on my filter cartridges with no negative effects. The filter medium is really robust. Use a flat fan nozzle, align the flat spray pattern with the pleats and spray from about 10 inches away from top to bottom. About 1 hour for 4 filters. About every 3 months. Spend the extra hours playing with your kids... your wife... your dog...sheesh

[@mikelyon2249]

Have you thought about doing the acid bath before the first rinse and then just do the one rinse after the acid bath?

[@s.m.1249]

So ., what is the problem with dirty filter? What symptoms we see that requires cleaning the filter. Or is just for fun? Thanks

[@michaelj3655]

Use a tip that has a fan shape spray pattern. I’ve been doing this for years and it works out great

[@DallasIPAttorney]

I've read a lot of comments here saying people clean their filter cartridges every week or two weeks. Maybe I'm not understanding because I have a regular pool with a Pentair filter that has 4 cartridges about 3 ft long each. To get to them you have to disassemble the filter by draining the water in it, using a wrench to take off the metal band, and then lift the top half of the filter off. Are these people saying they do this EVERY WEEK? That sounds insane, so maybe there are other types of filters where the cartridges just pop out? Also, when I put in the pool in 2009, the company told me that the pressure gauge at the top of the filter has a "Clean" mark that tells you when you need to clean or replace the cartridges. You can also see the water feature/fountain not spraying as high. Based on this gauge, my filter goes about one to two years before it gets to "Clean" (with "crystal clear water the whole time, as people like to say), and the cartridges look like this guy's did, with the algae on them and all. I saw one comment where the person couldn't believe algae could be on them while I'm wondering how they could NOT have algae. But again maybe I'm misunderstanding the type of filter or cartridges some people are talking about. I'm not criticizing, I'm just wondering what I'm missing with not needing to clean my cartridges but every year or two.

[@SheilaSpencer1]

I clean mine every 1-2 months.

[@PainlessTrader-h1u]

some people confuse a back wash with a cleaning.... usually DE and Sand Filters, you back wash them more frequently. With DE, you back wash till the water runs clear, and then recharge through the skimmer basket with fresh DE. Sand filter you back wash until it runs clear. DE and Sand filters you pretty much never need to open unless something goes wrong. Filter sand lasts a LONG time, 3 to 5 years and is literally dirt cheap. DE you add every time you back wash, and is fairly cheap... Cartride filters you should be cleaning on a regular basis when the pressure differential justifies it, and you replace them when they are damaged or so clogged time between cleaning starts to become irritating.

[@d2mini]

Wow that's a lot of work! I just clean mine every few weeks with a standard hose nozzle set to "full". Filter comes out gray and goes back in just as white as yours. Takes about 5 minutes for one filter. I don't want to make assumptions, but just from what I see in your vid it seems you are going far too long between cleanings.

[@tf5131]

Is there a special tool to lift the lid on a pentair 200sqft cartridge pool filter? I always have difficulty lifting it off due to rubber ring

[@sirifail4499]

Make sure, after opening the air valve at the top, that all the water has drained back and there is no more vacuum. Bang it a couple times near the band with you palm and it should come off pretty easy.

[@gladenacole1524]

WHATS A QUICK FIX FOR A HAIRLINE CRACK ON Diverter Valves. Ijust got the blaster

[@markb4448]

I have 2 sets of filters so a set ready to go already perfectly clean, I clean them when I take them out with the hydrant nozzle takes 10 minutes literally then let them dry and blow them out with a air hose and I'm done. my filters look brand new and don't spend hardly any time on them. Nothing else is needed.

[@MoultonHawk]

Dude, where did you get this idea of chemical baths from, Heisenberg? This is how you get rid of a body not clean your pool filters, so many harsh chemicals baths no wonder it worked. I’m surprised the filters didn’t disintegrate.

[@jonkirkwood469]

Nah. The filter media is spun polyester. If you could stand the stink, you could soak them in 12 molar hydrochloric acid. The acid dissolves the calcium carbonate deposited in the filter from the pool surface (plaster) as it ages. If you have a vinyl or fiberglass pool, you don't need the acid soak. If your filter dP is acceptable, you don't need it either.

[@robertbarta4912]

I use a regular garden hose and aqua comb pool cartridge filter cleaning tool. Cleaning after only 10psi increase in backpressure and my filters never look this bad either :D

[@sting1111]

I would like to see inside the pleats. You can make any cartridge white on the outside and it could still be toast.

[@toddwerther188]

Good lord, how often are you cleaning them? Those filters looks like they were in use for over six months. If you rinse them before they get that bad no need for step 2. You should also spray downward about a 15-20 degree angle. Since we've no idea how often you change them out, my recommendation would be to cut the time in half.

[@gcraig0001]

I'm surprised you didn't consider back-flushing (from the inside out) versus just driving more of the contaminants into the inside of the filter. Start by brushing off as much of the outer surface gunk as possible instead of driving it into the filter media with the needle spray, then use a low pressure needle spray parallel to the folds to remove the stuff in the folds instead of forcing it into the filter. Then use your soaking technique, followed by spraying from the inside of the filter out. What I'm describing is how I clean reusable air filters, where you don't want particles to migrate to the inner surface of the filter.

[@hughbrackett343]

These cartridges have a plastic pipe with holes running up the center. You can't get at the inside of the filter media to clean it effectively.

[@kameljoe21]

@@hughbrackett343 That is why you need to build a fitting to pump massive amounts of water in to them. The reverse flow does work. While you may not be able to get filter from the inside. Water still can get there. you just need to find a way to reverse the flow in to them. Using a cleaning agent that strips the oils from the filters and pump in a bunch of it. If you have a large enough tub you can recircleat the same water. Twinke style stock tank will allow you to lay them horizontal. Using a pool pump and some fittings and a way to press it tight would be able to get it to recirculate. You can buy pool filters for around 150 to 300 dollars to which you can use to filter the tub so that way you do not reinject debris inside the filter. Add a bunch of dawn to the tub and then allow it to filter for half hour or so then begin the flushing process. They should come out quite clean. Oils is one of the reason filters get dirty to and that oil sticks around. Dawn will strip oils away.

[@grey1wa]

@@kameljoe21 I prevent the Oils in the First place toss a "magic eraser" into the Skim basket.. I know not perfect but it has extended the time by filters run between cleanings

[@kameljoe21]

@@grey1wa that is quite interesting.

[@callandriello]

I just take them to a self carwash and they come out looking like new only a couple bucks no dangerous chemicals only ten minutes. and i dont have to dump all that water and acid (which you neglected to say)

[@BigTravisBon]

For your trashcan bath add a valve at the bottom so you don’t have to tip it over

[@txmmoore]

Some suggestions; why spend $13 on a wand? I went to $1 store and bought a package of water balloons. There "filler" nozzle they provide has a great stream of water. There is also a "jet sweep" nozzle available at Home Depot / Lowes that works. I use a smaller trash can and fill the water 1/2 way and use about 1/2 gallon of acid. I then plunge the filter in and out of the solution several times and then reverse the filter and do again. I then use a larger trash can full of water and put filters in this to rinse. Filter come out brand new for 1/2 the work and expense.

[@drdrew3]

I have one of those wands and it’s awesome. It’s about 16 inches long and the additional reach makes it much more effective than a short nozzle adapter. The extra long lever adjusts the spray force effortlessly and can shut water completely off. It even comes with a second screw on tip for a powerful fan versus a tight stream. Great for pool deck cleaning in addition to filter care. Got a second one for cleaning cars and driveway. Highly recommended and good gift idea

[@krasowsky1]

God, just use a regular adjustable spray nozzle, i usually just put it on the "jet" setting and move left to right, top to bottom. Had my cartridge filter for 5 years, only replaced the cartridges once, never had an issue just rinsing them with regular water and a regular spray nozzle.

[@scotthanford9619]

exactly. this guy is wasting his time with that sprayer he bought. just makes the process even more tedious.

[@mikescarano2903]

So do you like the shower you get with it? LOL I get the same results with a garden hose sprayer on fine stream. Thanks for the new technology

[@nathanielswan909]

That is a good process. I see many ideas. One "Dexter Step" was to totally dry the filter before placing them back into the pool. No idea why drying them off is really needed. Any comment of this?

[@House44-fixitdude]

I’m not sure that it makes any difference whether the filters are dried out or not.

[@joeshmuckatelli4447]

Interesting. Thought I was going to learn something new. I've been cleaning my 4 huge filters for years with a garden hose set on jet. Same process but no special tools. Somehow, I figured it out along with a million other pool owners (who do exactly that) by thinking about it for 30 seconds. Save the money. Clean as needed with what you have in your yard.

[@IndialanticRob]

Man thanks for showing us. Many won’t wash this way buy yours worked

[@ryancunningham8367]

Wow, beautiful filters! I'm in my 3rd season of pool ownership, also inherited with house and also uses cartidge filters. I recently tried an overnight soak of clothes washing powder detergent based off someone on KZbin recommending it for cleaning their spa filters. They looked better and the PSI level on my gauge did come down a bit. I tried two different kinds. With the last kind, now my pool has bubbles when we swim! We could probably wash our clothes in it, ha! It also has a different "feel" that's hard to describe, but the same as last season. I don't know if the detergent will naturally go away or not. Any advice on that would be helpful. Also, I'm curious about your PSI readings before and after on the gauges. I bought four brand new filters this season (and a new gauge) and the reading was 13 PSI, so I set that as the starting point. Now, after cleaning the filters, the initial PSI reading starts at around 16 or 17 PSI and quickly goes up to around 20.

[@House44-fixitdude]

Every system likely has a different operating PSI. The key is the amount of increase in pressure versus the nominal pressure with freshly cleaned (or new) filter cartridges. For my system, the operating pressure with clean cartridges is 20 PSI. When the pressure approaches 30 PSI, I know it’s time to clean the cartridges.

[@danaparish1644]

You must use a “PHOSPHATE FREE” Detergent.

[@josephgraham1065]

powder cascade works good.

[@ryancunningham8367]

@@josephgraham1065, good to know. What proportions do you use?

[@ianstover5474]

Here's a little tip. Always spray and rinse them with a filter cleaner/degreaser. If u dont and go straight to the acid bath it will cause the grease to clump up and clog pleats. Can also calcify the pleat rows and reduce circulation and filtration over time.

[@morrisdw155]

I bought an Aqua Comb and it saves an enormous amount of time and water. Its painful to watch the spraying in this video after using that tool. Combine that with your soak technique and you have a thing of beauty.

[@MoultonHawk]

Totally, that nozzle is painful to watch 😂

[@criffree]

It would be interesting to try it horizontally and use the pressure wash to spin it. That way you get the spray wash and centripetal force helping eliminate debris

[@mikelyon2249]

What would you spin i† on?

[@travelingmike40]

Same filter size. 2 sets for 12 years- rotate yearly only. Keep chlorine level adequate- salt water pool. Straight bleach -only chemical I use beginning of season, and if any shocking needed. Trash can soak simple green/bleach over night. Power wash - yes power wash- I drop them on a metal fence post- to allow distance. Power wash is perfectly safe and more efficient.

[@MrMyers-oi7op]

@christ6370 is correct my friends.....a proper filter element cleaning ALWAYS involves a mild degreaser/detergent before the quick soak in hydrogen chloride. I have found that Dawn Platinum or Heavy Duty Dish Soap, (not the Dawn HD purple degreaser) full strength, horizontal zig zag pattern with 1" spacing from top to bottom, let gravity pull the detergent down a bit, then get this guys wand, but with the flat spray tip. The Dawn might be a little more costly than TSP, but its better for your hands, your backyard, and your stormwater holding ponds/creeks/rivers and the like. You must rinse until ALL SUDS ARE GONE, then rinse it again, or as already mentioned, you can end up with permentantly clogged REEMAY and the entire process becomes a huge waste of time and a significant waste of money. Plain water is not enough for multi-element filter units that allow for long duration cycles between cleanings if your wife runs around with aerosol sunscreen constatly glazing the kids, or your fill water has more than 14 grains per gallon. If you oversized your multi-element cartridge filter for your pool.....which is desirable....you can also feed 0.5 lb of diatamaceous earth per 100 sq. ft. of effective filtration area your filter is rated with into a skimmer to improve filtration effeciency and grab smaller particles of contaminents, but only do this if your pool is squeaky clean, your water chemistry is balanced, and you have zero turbidity. I run about a 40-50 ppm concentration of boron in my water via ant and roach killer after the initial super chlorination by the salt system at the beginning of the season, the boric acid balances out the ph spike from the chloride changing to chlorite. Sorry......TMI......but it works so well with minimal inputs after that.....and that is what we are looking for!

[@MrMyers-oi7op]

Oh, and if you read this far......and you are in the market for a new filter unit, I have 2 new open box multi-element cartridge units (1 HSCC3030 and 1 PC&C+520), and 2 diatomaceous earth units (HPGDE6020's) available for 450 off of retail. Check them out on that bay after e and search for those units.....budgettitepoolandspallc. See you there!

[@user5.56]

are those cloth gloves..?

[@dennisd6527]

So you just pour the acid bath into the ground?

[@alanbrubaker5930]

This worked great! I would think you shouldn't have to do this every time but would work great if you had let the cleaning lapse for a few months.

[@Imwright720]

I clean my filters every week or other week, skimmer 2x a day and vacuum every week . Any debris I remove with the net. Leaving debris in your pool causes problems. A simple spray nozzle on your hose should work fine. It’s way more water volume, water volume equals speed. Your filter looks moldy like your free chlorine isn’t high enough. Mine look new after just 5 minutes. There should not be calcium build up on your filters unless your numbers are way off. My total time is less than 10 minutes.

[@gregjohnson2073]

I use the exact same system. Should be running off dirt and not alge

[@StevenPendleton]

You shouldn't have algae on your filter cartridges if your pool is being maintained properly!

[@frankdelarosa9527]

It's probably grass clippings and other small debris from trees and stuff.

[@cwstewartjr1973]

Dead algea is green

[@gregjohnson2073]

That's not grass clippings. It would have come off easier

[@willnewby5204]

Just water blast them on a fan setting, takes about half the time you have + no chemicals needed.

[@kevingray8616]

I'm not trying to be rude here, but I'm always trying to find out a better way to do this task that has to be done at least 3 times a year. To be honest with you, that looks terrible. I use an Orbit Max 8-Pattern Nozzle, part number 26700 that you can find at Lowes that puts our far more water and likely pressure in a "Jet" than your tool. I HIGHLY recommend this nozzle. Additionally, my hose bibs are Arrowhead Arrow-breaker hose bibs (because I swapped them out) that supposedly put out more water than traditional hose bibs with added vacuum breakers. I did make my own filter holder using part of a broom handle, a toilet plunger, and weighted base for a table sun umbrella. I'm on a well with my pressure set to be within 40-60 PSI, but with my cycle stop valve I'm probably running at around 55 psi. The amount of water and likely pressure compared to yours is way over and beyond.

[@sarahchristyrose5827]

There is no chance I’m doing all that… how much is a new set?

[@sarahchristyrose5827]

@FJvMHWorldwide damn… maybe pool ownership isn’t for me 🤣🤣🤣

[@daveray6335]

While it works, this guy's process is ridiculous and extremely time inefficient. I spray off my filter (one large one) with a regular garden hose nozzle three times per season and I have crystal clear water. Each cleaning takes approximately ten minutes.

[@TexasNightRider]

@@sarahchristyrose5827 Smart 🙂

[@mikebruce6037]

EXACTLY !!! Time is money. I'll buy a new set 2 times a year. Its just part of owning a pool.

[@stevebrown263]

$160/set and rising. Not frivolous for most people.

[@DesmoSD]

You mentioned that you don't dump the acid bath near plants but where did pour it out? Did you dilute it and pour it down the sidewalk or just poured it out? I need to clean mine and I just use a pressure washer hose. It doesn't get it as clean as yours but might have to try the TSP PF.

[@House44-fixitdude]

Muriatic acid must be diluted in water before disposing of it in any manner. I can’t find a universal standard on dilution and have seen recommendations of 10:1 all the way to 64:1. In my case, I use a 45 gallon trash can so I’m at about 40:1. I have a bare gravel area with no plants where I pour it out and then I hose it down more to further dilute it. The best thing would to be to check your city codes regarding acceptable dilution and disposal.

[@DesmoSD]

@@House44-fixitdude Thank you. I have used muriatic acid to clean the salt cell and added baking soda to dilute it even though it's a small amount.

[@ddsmitty1]

@@DesmoSDthe baking soda you’re using isn’t diluting the acid, but it’s neutralizing the acid, and that’s better than diluting it. Just add baking soda until there are no more bubbles.

[@crackers819903]

@@DesmoSD the acid you use to clean the salt cell can just be dumped into the pool to lower your ph...that's what i do with mine.

[@HW-kp2tm]

Use the TSP before the acid. TSP will remove oils and grease. A 10:1solution of muriatic acid will then remove the scale. If used first, the acid will set oil and grease, making cleaning more difficult.

[@House44-fixitdude]

Thanks for the comment but I have actually had different results. I’ve tried both ways and had a significantly better result with the acid bath first, per the video. That’s why I titled it “finally figured it out” because the sequence was one of the many things I changed over the years for the best result.

[@djspty]

Thank you

[@BigTravisBon]

Man I literally just cleaned mine the other day and took forever and I literally was just thinking before your video if my car wand would work

[@jonkirkwood469]

"TSP" used to be an acronym for trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4), which when dissolved in water, creates an alkaline (pH >7) solution. Trisodium phosphate is an efficient degreaser, solubilizing organic compounds (sunblock, lotion, skin and hair cells). I'd use it first, especially before an acid soak. Your pool filters contain plenty of skin and hair cells, among other biologic contaminants (Think: kids, rude adults). Muriatic acid is just another name for Hydrochloric Acid (HCl).

[@TeamMadcrew]

just spray hose it weekly to prevent sediment from accumulating. i never let my filters get that soiled... you can just keep an eye on your filter pressure gauge to let you know how dirty it gets.

[@MichaelRei99]

Wow ! Talk about overkill. So you’re not filtering for over 2 days while you are cleaning your filters?

[@johni1138]

Thank you I will try the TSP step

[@arod7404]

Add baking soda to neutralize acid before dumping

[@lorifarmer9692]

How often do you deep clean them? Abd how often do you find you need to replace them now?

[@House44-fixitdude]

I deep clean them every time. Before I started doing that, I had to clean them far too often, now I can go many months between cleaning. I usually replace them after a couple years, when the horizontal bands start to become brittle or break.

[@J_S0711]

You clean them twice a year.

[@andrewvinen7401]

You mentioned about the amount of water you are using. To reduce the amount of water as you are turning the filters over anyway just fill the bin to just above the halfway line on the filter then you'd easily be reducing the amount of water being used by a third! 👍

[@elizabethmiller3384]

I clean my cartridge filter with a garden hose every week or two. I’ve never seen anything like yours. It doesn’t have to be that hard, pop it out each week before you shock the pool and hose it off. It only takes a few minutes. Then if an algae bloom is starting you catch it right away. Been doing it this way for seven seasons. It’s easier on the pump, filter and you to make it a part of regular maintenance. No 2:07 cleaners or chemicals needed

[@sup8857]

That's tight work.

[@robinandnate338]

If you used a clarifier cause I was told to r my cartridge filters ruined or fallow these steps

[@House44-fixitdude]

I’m not aware of an issue with a clarifier damaging filter cartridges. I believe the cartridges could still be cleaned.

[@robinandnate338]

@@House44-fixitdude yes we were told by pool place it puts a film over the cartridges. we can't get r pool clear it is cloudy we just put a brand-new cartridge in and shocked it woke up yesterday and still cloudy. we have never had this issue before. Not sure what to do at this point

[@jesusvalenzuela5601]

I just use a pressure washer and it cleans them pretty good..

[@johndale8614]

I've been using a Hayward missle system cartridge for 20 years. The filters are not meant to last longer than two years and then you replace. Re-cleaning will not fix the problem once it's passed the lifecycle. Just buy a new one every two years, and problem will never return as long as you clean it during the season periodically, and obviously maintain your water with chlorine, salt, etc..

[@tommystormwittig]

Nice video thanks for the information. I just did a big step 1 cleaning at the start of the season, I will try these 2 extra steps.

[@House44-fixitdude]

Thanks for the nice feedback. I hope the video can help you out going forward.

[@ToddRafkin-yw6hp]

i think if you sprayed at a 45 angle then you wont be forcing the debris deeper i would soak first then spray with a orange citrus degreaser it is a strong acid and your pool shouldnt be that concentrated so the filters arent really used to it and according to manfctrs when the pleats get fuzzy then its time for new ones hope i didnt sound like an a hole just trying to help as well thank you Todd .Todds pool and spa service since 1989

[@BigTravisBon]

Also before you go to put them back into the pool canister let them dry so the fins go back to normal

[@edcygan]

I use my water with the acid to clean my filters all summer long! You do not have to put in clean and acid every time just use 2 garbage cans for the 2 different processes and save some cash using the same water and cleaner and acid over and over again and use a hose end attachment with a wider fan spray instead of a pin point to save some water and time.

[@BrianDBacon]

Thanks man. Very helpful

[@hardcore74]

Maybe you should look into getting a sand filter. Much easier to take care.

[@MichaelNadel]

TSP is an irritant to skin and eyes... Not sure I'd want that residue on my filters. There are other filter cleaners that might be less irritating...

[@davideastham]

The most simple way I found to clean my filter is to just use my hose nozzle. It has multiple spray patters. To quickly clean, I put it on 'shower' and then change to 'jet' to clean out the bugs and leaves. As others have said, do not let your filter dry after you take it out. Clean it immediately. Also, if your filter has a lot of algae, you can soak it in a mild solution of bleach water for a few minutes before reinstalling it. Just make sure to rinse it. Never have I purchased a 'special attachment' just for cleaning my filters. I clean my filters (2) at least every other day and it only takes me about a minute each. Two at the most. Also, where are you dumping all that acid water and tsp? in the yard? Down the sewer drain? Just curious.

[@Shasta69]

Forget all this nonsense. Just take your filter cartridges to a self serve car wash, set the selector dial to rinse and get busy. The high pressure of the wand will make short work of the grime. Just be careful to keep the wand far enough from the cartridges to avoid damage. I've been using this method for over 25 years. It's quick and easy.

[@MoultonHawk]

Ohhhhh, that’s a hack! ❤️

[@JonathanHinkle-e7z]

Safest way to clean cartridge filters is with a regular straight shooter nozzle head for the end of the hose. Don't ever use anything with pressure. Only use your garden hose. RELEASE ALL PRESSURE IN SYSTEM. TAKE BOTTOM DRAIN PLUG OUT AND OPEN THE AIR RELIEF VALVE. THEN START THIS PROCESS. 1. Clean filters 2. Soak in 1-2 bottles of mauritic acid/WATER MIX (in a trash barrel or something big enough to hold water and filters at the same time without holes) or spray degreaser and let sit ( follow directions on bottle) VERY IMPORTANT NOTE::::: THIS STUFF WILL KILL YOUR GRASS AND ANY FOLIAGE IF YOU EMPTY OR SPRAY DEGREASER AROUND. PREFERABLY DO IT IN A AREA WITH ROCKS OR AREA THAT HAS DEAD GRASS AND FOLIAGE THAT WON'T KILL YOUR LAWN OR ANYTHING GREEN!!! 3. Hose down filters again after 24-48 hrs of soaking in acid/water mix. 4. Put filter back together clean the inside and top of filter. Also VERY IMPORTANT: THE SEATING AREA FOR FILTER GASKET AND WHERE THE TOP AND BOTTOM OF THE FILTER MEET THAT AREA HAS TO BE CLEANED AND GASKET RINSED OFF. NOTE IF YOU DON'T CLEAN THE BELLY BAND AREA AND GASKET YOUR FILTER WILL LEAK. I PROMISE YOU. JUST CLEAN IT PERFECTLY AND YOU WON'T HAVE NO LEAKS. I HOPE THIS HELPS SOMEONE SOMEDAY!!!

[@markmorgan6741]

I don't think you care much about that air conditioner or pavers or you wouldn't be putting your acid on them. Also, what do you do with the diluted acid. It will kill any plant you put it on.

[@danfenton1939]

Where did you get the wand nozzle ? Thanks

[@House44-fixitdude]

I found it on Amazon by entering “car washing wand” in the search window. There are several choices.

[@danfenton1939]

Yes, I see several but do you remember which one you got ? The Amazon reviews are very mixed on all of them

[@House44-fixitdude]

I don’t want to endorse a certain product as I’m sure any of them would work just as well, but the one I purchased is listed currently at $14.99 as “High pressure washer wand washer gun with 2 jet water hose nozzle spray..”. I have only used it a few times so I can’t really attest to the long term robustness of it.

[@miamitreasurehunter]

Very cool. Thanks for sharing.

[@House44-fixitdude]

You’re welcome, I hope the video helps

[@sabrinaperez2542]

Great knowledge 👏