Cartridge filters are used across industry for filtration duties, removing dirt, sediment, fine particles and other harmful contaminants. They are also widely used in swimming pools, where their main job is to filter out contaminants from the pool water.
There are many reasons why cartridge filters for water filtration are a good choice for a pool. Here are the advantages of a cartridge filter and what you can expect when you use one.
Advantages of cartridge filters
- Water savings: no backwashing is needed, which saves a considerable volume of water each year.
- Low maintenance: the cartridge can be cleaned once or twice a year, or as needed.
- Easy installation: the plumbing is simpler because no backwash line is needed.
- Fine filtration: where filters are typically considered to retain particles down to about 30 microns, cartridge filters can retain particles down to 5–10 microns.
Why cartridge filters matter
Cartridge filters are at the heart of many water filtration systems, removing substances and impurities to deliver clean, fresh water.
Cartridges need replacing to maintain consistent filtration and keep removing contaminants from the water. Delaying replacement leads to blockages and poor system performance. Regular replacement keeps the water clear by removing particles and contaminants.
Good water circulation depends on regular maintenance, which also extends cartridge life. Neglecting clogged cartridges restricts flow and allows contaminants through the filter. Dirty pool water upsets the chemical balance and affects bathers.
Cartridge filters help keep a pool healthy by removing debris, dirt and oils. Regular manual cleaning is essential, as the filters do not clean themselves.
A common choice for pools
There are three main types of pool filter: sand filters, diatomaceous earth filters and cartridge filters. All three are good options, but many pool owners choose cartridge filters because they clean the pool well.
Cartridge filters remove small particles and other harmful substances and are easy to use and maintain, although they need careful handling and regular cleaning.
They retain dirt particles of 10–15 microns, and because they can operate at lower pump pressures, they can reduce energy costs. In saltwater pools, a cartridge filter does not waste salt through backwashing, which makes it a good option for pools with a saltwater system.
When should a cartridge be replaced?
Leaving a cartridge in service too long can cause serious problems: excessive dirt and contaminants build up inside the filter, causing blockages and leaks. Swimmers may then experience problems such as rashes, skin irritation or stomach upsets.
To avoid this, look out for the signs that a cartridge needs replacing.
Cracked end caps
End caps are made of very tough material, but aggressive water chemistry can make them brittle. If the end caps start to crack, replace the cartridge immediately; continuing to use it can affect the pool and damage the equipment.
Flattened pleats
When the pleats are clogged with dirt they deform and flatten, restricting water flow and reducing the filter’s cleaning capacity.
Crushed cartridge
The most common cause of a crushed cartridge is the collapse of the inner core, the support behind the pleats that prevents the cartridge from collapsing.
Other causes include a cracked inner core, a poor-quality cartridge or an undersized cartridge. If you see any of these problems, it is time to replace the cartridge.
Conclusion
These are the main reasons why cartridge filters are such a popular choice. When buying equipment for your home or business, consider your own needs; if a cartridge filter is the right solution, it is well worth considering for your pool.
See our filtration consumables or contact KEIKEN on +34 910 577 254 for a quotation.
