Change can be a good thing; and when it comes to your pool filter, change is a VERY good thing. The job of a pool filter is to catch dirt, bacteria and other not so savory stuff. When it is running optimally, your pool filter can help keep your pool running smoothly and cleanly. 

Here are the things that you definitely don’t want to happen:

• When water flow through your pool filter cartridge is impeded, your pump will run harder. Too much pressure can even cause back-ups and crack pipes, either of which can be an expensive fix.
• The normal wear and tear of the porous fabric in your pool filter cartridge could result in more debris in your pool and could even lead to a broken pool pump.
• Pool filter end caps are the plastic caps that keep your pool filter cartridge locked in place. When they become brittle, they can break apart and create loose positioning. Worse yet, broken pieces of end caps can flow through the pump and damage your pool’s filtration system.
• The inner core of your pool filter cartridge can also collapse on itself if it has surpassed its life expectancy. That’s never a good thing.

A good rule of thumb for the longevity of pool cartridge filters is about one to two years. Lean closer to one year if your pool gets very frequent use or if it is exposed to a bunch of pollen and other tree droppings or chemicals like sunscreen, hair products and deodorant.

To extend the life of your filter, you can frequently wash it out. It’s also a good thing to periodically change the sand in your pool filter cartridge. Over time, that sand can break down and become saturated with debris and other pretty yucky stuff. 

The moral of this story is keeping up with your pool filter maintenance can mean the difference between crystal clear pool water and some highly questionable sludge. Ok, that may be a little harsh, but you get the idea.