Absolute Blue Services

Cartridge Filter Service

4 elements $145 or 8 elements $185

Request Information about or Request Service

Cartridge filter is a filtration system that uses a fine mesh of paper or synthetic material to remove suspended contaminants from pool water. This material is essentially the same material used in a lot of air cleaners for cars.

By design these type of filters are the most water conservative and filters out smaller particles than the other type of filters. Cartridge filters need no maintenance outside of regular cleaning as compared to sand or de filters

Does my cartridge filter need to be cleaned?

Yes! As the cartridge captures contaminants it holds them in the filaments. Since cartridge filters can not be back washed the only solution is to clean those cartridges thoroughly.

Well, how often does it need to be cleaned?

That answer depends on a lot of factors but rule of thumb is whenever the filter pressure gauge increases by 5 psi. On an average 4 element filter with normal use and not excessive landscape foliage cleaning is required about 2 times a year.

And if I don't do this regularly or let it go for a while?

Failing to clean cartridges regularly will end up costing a lot of money in the long run, both in replacing elements and higher energy costs. As the elements collect more "stuff" the fibers get full and water can not get through. This means the pump has to work harder to get the water through the filaments. Results could be needing to replace cartridges or even shortening the life of your pump motor.

OK, so what's involved in cleaning the cartridges?

Your technician will perform the following tasks to ensure your filter will perform its peak and keep your water safe from contaminants:

1. take apart the filter body and remove all of the filaments (1 to 8 depending on model).
2. Rinse of each cartridge both inside and out. This is done by spraying them at an angle and working down each sleeve until complete.
3. Inspecting cartridges for torn filaments, compressed gaskets, or bent seals.
4. Removing drain plug (if equipped) and cleaning bottom half of filter body.
5. Lubricating all "O" rings and reassembling complete filter.
6. Inspecting all spots for any leaks and verifying filter pressure is with in range.

I heard its better to soak filters, do you do this?

Some of our clients opt in for this and what happens is they purchase a second set of cartridges and a large trash can. They fill the trash can with cleaning solution and water (per product label) and soak the filters. When the technician arrives they will remove the soaking cartridges, rinse them off and put them in the filter. They will then clean off the dirty elements and leave them a side for next time. This happens for each and every clean. For an extra fee we will store clients second elements and handle soaking of them ourselves.