How to Care for a Paper Pool Filter

Paper pool filters are used to filter particles out of the pool water. Paper filters require little maintenance, but the maintenance they do require has to occur on a regular basis. To get the most life out of your paper filter, it will have to be cleaned two or three times a month. Other things that can extend the life of a paper filter are to cut down on the use of tanning oils in the pool, and to clear the filter of leaves and other debris several times a week.

Things You'll Need

  • Muriatic acid
  • Degreasing filter cleaner
  • Hose with pressure nozzle
  • Rubber gloves
  • Safety goggles
  • Screwdriver
  • Wrench
  • Large bucket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check to see if the filter should be cleaned. A psi (pounds per square inch) reading of 8 points higher than the normal rating means that the filter should be cleaned.

    • 2

      Remove the filter from the filter housing by unscrewing the top. The top may be held in place with a screw, or it may be held in place with a screw top. If the screw top is used, a wrench can loosen the screw. If a screw holds the filter in place, unscrew with a screwdriver. Pull the filter out of the filter housing.

    • 3

      Blast the surface of each filter pleat with the spray nozzle on the hose. Start at the top of the filter and work your way down to the bottom. Continue to spray until all pleats rinse clean with clear water.

    • 4

      Place the filter in a bucket large enough to completely submerge the filter when cleaned. Pour enough liquid filter cleaner inside the bucket to cover the filter. Allow to sit overnight.

    • 5

      Take the filter out of the bucket and rinse with water.

    • 6

      Test the filter to see if it needs additional cleaning. Mix a solution of 20 parts water to 1 part muriatic acid. Place a small amount of this solution on the filter. If the filter bubbles, it should be soaked in the acid solution.

    • 7

      Place the filter inside the bucket once more. Pour enough acid solution inside the bucket to cover the filter. Leave the cartridge inside the acid solution until the filter stops bubbling.

    • 8

      Rinse the filter once more with water. Replace the filter inside the filter housing and screw on the housing top.

    • 9

      Keep larger particles such as sand away from the filter. Sand should not be used with paper cartridges, because it can block and damage the filter.