Hose off your cartridge filter every 2–3 weeks during pool season.

Yes — but the real answer is “when the pressure gauge tells you to.” If your filter pressure climbs 8–10 PSI above the clean starting pressure, it’s time to rinse. For most people that ends up being every two to three weeks in summer, less often in spring and fall.

Cleaning is simple: shut off the pump, open the filter housing, pull the cartridge out, and hose it down. Work from the inside out so the spray pushes debris away from the pleats. You don’t need a pressure washer — a garden hose with a nozzle works fine. Let it dry completely before putting it back.

Every month or two you should also soak the cartridge in a pool filter cleaner to strip out oils and scale that a hose rinse won’t touch. Follow the label, rinse well, then reinstall.

Don’t wait until the filter is visibly clogged or the pump struggles. And don’t put it in the dishwasher — I’ve seen people try that. It ruins the cartridge and annoys the dishwasher.

A clean filter keeps your water clear and your pump from working harder than it has to. That’s the whole game.