When it comes to efficient pool maintenance, selecting the right cartridge filter replacement can have a profound impact on service schedules, inventory management, and operational costs. Cartridge filters, like those offered by Pleatco and discussed by Scott Gleason and Kevin Stewart of Pentair Pool on the Pool Magazine podcast, offer pool service professionals a way to streamline their operations.
This article aims to explore the specific time-saving benefits, how standardized cartridges simplify inventory management, the reduction in operational costs, and the advantages of replacing sand filters with cartridge systems. We will also identify the ideal pool types for cartridge filters and how Pleatco’s innovative replacements improve maintenance efficiency.
Time-Saving Benefits for Maintenance Schedules
One of the biggest challenges pool professionals face is balancing busy schedules, especially during peak seasons. Scott Gleason emphasized how the right filter cartridge can extend the time between cleaning cycles. Pleatco’s advanced cartridges feature point bonded filtration fabric and PurePleat technology, which distribute dirt evenly and reduce flow resistance over time. This means fewer service calls to clean clogged filters and quicker service when cleaning is required.
“Less frequent and quicker service events translate into fewer unscheduled visits, making it easier for pool pros to manage their time efficiently,” Gleason explained. This enhanced efficiency allows technicians to serve more clients without compromising quality.
Simplifying Inventory Management with Standardized Cartridges
Kevin Stewart highlighted how Pleatco’s cartridge design supports multiple pool brands, eliminating the need for pool pros to stock various filter types. “By standardizing cartridges, service pros save both time and money. You won’t need to maintain a large inventory of different brands, which makes things much simpler,” Stewart said.
Pleatco’s ultra-line cartridges are particularly noteworthy because they combine multiple filter functions into a single, versatile product, fitting a wide variety of pool systems. This consolidation minimizes inventory while ensuring professionals are prepared for various service scenarios.
Operational Cost Savings with the Right Filter Cartridges
Using high-quality cartridges not only saves time but also reduces operational costs. Gleason explained that opting for cheaper, lower-quality filters often leads to more frequent cleanings and service visits. “While some pool owners may focus on the initial cost, higher-quality cartridges offer long-term savings by extending cleaning intervals and ensuring optimal filtration,” Gleason noted.
Pleatco’s cartridges also help conserve water. Cartridge systems eliminate the need for backwashing, a process required with sand filters that wastes chlorinated water. Stewart pointed out, “Skipping backwashing avoids chemical loss and aligns with water conservation efforts, especially in regions with water restrictions.”
Advantages of Replacing Sand Filters with Cartridge Filtration
Cartridge filters offer several advantages over traditional sand filters. Stewart noted that “cartridge filtration delivers better water clarity by capturing particles nearly twice as small as sand filters.” Additionally, cartridge systems provide greater square footage for water filtration, reducing the frequency of cleanings.
Sand filters require frequent backwashing, which can occur weekly, while cartridge filters may only need cleaning every few months. The absence of backwashing in cartridge systems not only saves water but also simplifies maintenance, reducing downtime for pool owners.
Best Pool Types for Cartridge Filters
According to Gleason, cartridge filters are ideal for several specific pool settings:
- Residential pools with space constraints where large sand filters would be impractical.
- Saltwater pools that benefit from the fine filtration capabilities of cartridges.
- Pools in areas with water restrictions, where conserving water is critical.
- Low-usage pools that don’t require constant backwashing, making them ideal for cartridge filtration.
These filters are particularly well-suited for pools where water clarity is paramount, and maintenance needs to be minimal.
Key Features to Look for in Cartridge Filters for Extended Cleaning Cycles
| Feature | Benefit | Impact on Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Point Bonded Fabric | Greater dirt capture and stability | Fewer cleanings needed, extending service cycles |
| Open Flow Core Design | Reduces resistance and operating pressure | Improves water flow and filtration efficiency |
| PurePleat Technology | Prevents pleat bunching and ensures even loading | Quicker and easier cartridge rinsing |
| Universal Fit | Compatible with multiple brands | Simplifies inventory and reduces replacement time |
| Durability | Resists wear and tear | Longer cartridge life, reducing replacement frequency |
How Pleatco Cartridges Help Pool Professionals Accommodate a Busy Maintenance Schedule
With maintenance schedules becoming more demanding, especially during peak pool season, using Pleatco filters ensures service professionals can meet tight timelines. “Making an extra trip to a pool for filter cleaning can feel tedious, especially during busy times,” Gleason noted. “Pleatco’s ultra-line cartridges allow for fast and easy cleaning, which means less time spent on each service call.”
This is achieved by the combination of Pleatco’s key features—point bonded fabric, open flow core, and PurePleat technology. Together, these innovations reduce the frequency of filter cleanings and make rinsing faster when needed.
“Service techs can expect cartridge cleaning to be as simple as removing, rinsing, and replacing,” Gleason added. This streamlined process helps professionals move through their service routes more efficiently, accommodating a larger number of clients.
As an industry leader in the pool and spa space, Pentair Pool is driven to help people safely and sustainably enjoy water. Their solutions include industry-leading pumps, automation, lighting, heating, and filtration technology that help customers enjoy a smarter and more sustainable pool. Pleatco compliments Pentair’s innovative product solutions with quality and cutting-edge pool and spa filtration technology. For more information, visit www. pentair. com/pleatco.
Ready to take a deeper dive?
Listen to our entire discussion about Pleatco cartridge filter replacements with Scott Gleason and Kevin Stewart on the Pool Magazine podcast.
