Cartridge Pool Filters: Cleaning, Pressure, Lifespan & Common Problems

Cartridge pool filters are one of the most popular filtration systems for residential pools because they provide excellent water clarity, low maintenance, and no backwashing. However, most pool problems related to cartridge filters come from dirty elements, high pressure, poor circulation, or worn-out cartridges. This guide answers the most common cartridge filter questions homeowners ask when their pool isn’t working properly.

Quick Cartridge Filter Diagnostics Checklist

You may have a cartridge filter problem if you notice:

• High filter pressure

• Weak return flow

• Cloudy water

• Pump losing prime

• Filter leaking

• Algae returning even with good chemicals

How Often Should I Clean My Cartridge Pool Filter?

Most cartridge pool filters should be cleaned:

• Every 4–6 weeks during swim season

• Immediately if pressure rises 8–12 PSI above clean pressure

• After heavy storms, algae treatments, or dust events

Dirty cartridges restrict flow, overwork your pump, and reduce water clarity.

Why Is My Cartridge Filter Pressure So High?

High filter pressure usually means:

• Dirty or clogged cartridges

• Excess debris or algae in the pool

• Pump running at high speed

• Oils and sunscreen buildup inside the cartridge

• Calcium scale inside the filter

High pressure strains your pump and can cause equipment failure if ignored.

Can I Run My Pool With a Dirty Cartridge Filter?

Technically yes — but it’s a bad idea. Running a pool with a dirty cartridge filter can:

• Burn out your pump

• Cause cloudy water

• Trap algae and bacteria

• Trigger heater and automation faults

• Shorten cartridge lifespan

A dirty filter is one of the top causes of recurring pool problems.

How Long Do Cartridge Pool Filters Last?

On average:

• Residential cartridge lifespan: 2–4 years

• Heavy-use pools: 1.5–2 years

• Light-use pools: Up to 5 years

They fail faster if:

• Not cleaned regularly

• Exposed to high calcium

• Used during algae outbreaks without being cleaned

Why Is My Pool Still Dirty After Cleaning the Cartridge Filter?

If your pool stays cloudy after cleaning, the cause is usually:

• Cartridge is worn out

• Oils still trapped inside pleats

• Algae embedded deep in filter material

• Improper pump runtime

• Chemistry is still unbalanced

Sometimes cartridges look clean but no longer filter properly.

Step-By-Step: How to Properly Clean a Cartridge Filter

1. Turn off pump at breaker

2. Release air from filter

3. Open filter tank

4. Remove cartridges

5. Rinse with high-pressure water between pleats

6. Soak in filter cleaner (if oily)

7. Rinse thoroughly

8. Reinstall and restart system

9. Record new clean PSI

Top Causes of Cartridge Filter Failure

• Running pump with dirty cartridges

• High calcium levels

• Poor water chemistry

• Extended algae treatment without cleaning

• Sun damage from improper storage

• Improper installation

When Should You Replace a Cartridge Instead of Cleaning It?

You should replace your cartridge if:

• Pleats are flattened

• End caps are cracked

• Bands are broken

• Material is thin or fraying

• Pressure rises again within 24 hours of cleaning

Cleaning cannot restore worn-out filter fabric.

Cartridge Filter vs Sand Filter (Quick Comparison)

Cartridge filters:

• ✅ Better water clarity

• ✅ No backwashing or water waste

• ✅ Lower daily maintenance

• ❌ Require manual cleaning

• ❌ Cartridge replacement cost every few years

When to Call a Professional for Cartridge Filter Problems

Call a pool professional if:

• Pressure stays high after cleaning

• Pump loses prime

• Your cartridge needs replacement but system won’t restart

• Filter housing leaks

• Pool won’t stay clean even after proper cleaning

Professional Cartridge Filter Service in Peoria, AZ

If you’re in Peoria or the West Valley, Triton Pools provides full cartridge filter service including:

• Deep filter cleanings

• Cartridge replacement

• Pressure diagnostics

• Equipment inspections

• Full circulation system optimization

Schedule your cartridge filter service with Triton Pools today.

FAQ: Cartridge Pool Filters

How often should I clean my cartridge filter?
Every 4–6 weeks or when pressure rises 8–12 PSI.

Can cartridge filters remove algae?
Yes, after algae is killed, the cartridge filters out dead algae.

Why does my filter pressure spike after algae treatment?
Dead algae clogs the cartridge quickly.

Do cartridge filters use electricity?
No — only the pump uses electricity.

Can cartridge filters be chemically cleaned?
Yes. Degreaser and scale remover are often required for deep cleaning.