So, you think your pool is fine because it looks blue. Congratulations, you are one step away from a cloudy, smelly mess. Your filter cartridge is probably screaming for help, and every leaf, bug, and sunscreen layer is having a party in there.
Mistake 1: Assuming Clear Water Means Clean Water
If you judge water health only by looks, you are setting yourself up for disappointment.
- Cloudy water starts long before you notice it.
- Dirty cartridges choke your filter and slow water circulation.
- Algae will sneak in while you’re busy congratulating yourself.
A pool that looks fine can still fail every test strip. Check your cartridge at least once a week.
Mistake 2: Waiting Until There’s A Problem
You cannot wait for the water to go green before cleaning. By then, bacteria and debris have already taken over.
- Remove your cartridge every 2–4 weeks.
- Spray it thoroughly with a garden hose.
- For stubborn gunk, soak it overnight in a filter cleaner solution.
This routine is cheaper than a new cartridge or a surprise visit from the pool guy.
Mistake 3: Blaming Chemicals Instead Of Yourself
Dumping more chlorine into dirty water does not fix a clogged cartridge.
- Chemicals need proper circulation to work.
- Trapped debris reduces chlorine effectiveness.
- You are wasting money if you skip the basics.
Always clean the cartridge before reaching for shock or algaecide. The water cannot heal itself if the filter is choked.
Mistake 4: Ignoring The Small Warning Signs
Your pool will warn you before it turns into a swamp.
- Weak return jets
- Rising pressure gauge readings
- A pump that sounds like it’s sighing
If any of these happen, your cartridge is overdue for cleaning. Ignoring the signs only leads to bigger bills.
Your Action Plan: Stop Ignoring The Filter
If you want your pool to behave, give the cartridge attention. Here is a simple routine:
- Inspect the cartridge weekly.
- Spray and rinse every 2–4 weeks.
- Deep clean every 2–3 months.
- Replace annually or when worn.
Do this, and your water stays inviting. Ignore it, and your pool will turn on you faster than you can say, “Why is the water green?”
