How Often Does a Pool Filter Need to be Changed?

Regardless of the type of pool, effectively working filters are essential to keep it in top condition and safe for a dip.

A pool’s filter system is the key to sparkling water. A proper filtration system makes a pool’s cleaning and maintenance process easier by ensuring proper water circulation and avoiding unwanted dirt, grime, and debris build-up. Regardless of the type of pool, effectively working filters are essential to keep it in top condition and safe for a dip.

Most residential pools use cartridge filters, a pleated cylindrical cartridge made of polyester, as their pool filtration system for easy maintenance and high efficiency. However, pool filter cartridges are not built to last forever and will need replacement. Homeowners may need help determining when their pool filter is due for replacement.

Here is a simple guide explaining how often a pool filter needs replacement.

Pool filter cartridge lifespan

Pool filter cartridges can last 1-2 years, or 2000 working hours on average, before needing replacement, and some may last as many as three years. As a rule of thumb, bigger cartridges have a longer lifespan and can filter out more debris before requiring cleaning. Therefore, pool owners should choose the biggest filter cartridge available for their system.

Not replacing the filter cartridge on time will eventually make the pool hazardous for swimming. The answer to the question of how often to change the pool filter depends on many factors.

Factors affecting the lifespan of a filter cartridge

There are a few factors that can cause a filter cartridge to demand replacement sooner than expected, including:

• Cleaning frequency

• Water quality

• Pool size and use

• Cartridge’s dirt-holding capacity

• Filter cartridge type and quality

• Chemicals used to treat water

Sunscreen, hair care products, tanning oils, deodorants, and other chemicals affect a filter and lowers its service life.

Signs a pool cartridge filter needs replacement

Generally speaking, there is no set time to change the pool filter. Pool owners can look for the following warning signs to determine the right time to swap out the cartridge filters:

• It requires frequent cleaning

• Cracked end caps

• Flattened pleats

• Torn, frayed, or ripped fabric

• High PSI, even after cleaning the filter

• The pool appears dirtier than usual

• The cartridge looks crushed

• The cartridge is well beyond its use-by-date

How to extend the pool filter cartridge lifespan

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to extend pool filter life. These few maintenance tips will go a long way in helping the filter cartridge last longer:

• Keep the skimmers clean

• Clean the filter frequently depending on the pool usage

• Soak the cartridge in a filter-cleaning solution to remove any build-up

• Inspect the filter regularly

• Run the filter efficiently

• Use water clarifiers

Replace the filter cartridge as soon it shows signs of wear to protect the pool system from damage and keep the pool water crystal clear. Always buy the correct filter, and choose a high-quality replacement filter to prevent damage to the other parts of the filter assembly.

Contact a local pool service for more information on pool filter cartridges and other pool care and maintenance tips.