Can a Cartridge Filter Vacuum to Waste?

[jenandthegang]

Not sure if this is the best board to post on, or the algae board since my need to vacuum to waste likely comes from a problem I was having with algae....that said,

I was told that cartridge filters can't vacuum to waste, but I don't know if that's true. Coming off of my pump is a spigot that allows water to freely drain when I need it to, such as when my water level is too high. I also have a valve before the filter that can be turned to prevent the water from going into the filter.

Does this setup sound like I could vacuum to waste, and if so, since I have a 2 speed filter, is it safe to use the high setting or just the low setting?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Bama Rambler]

A spigot is very small and will restrict the water flow a lot. You can do it that way but it's really gonna affect the suction of the vacuum. You can take the cartridge out of the filter and open the drain and vacuum that way.

 

[DebbieO]

i have vac'd to waste by pulling the cart out pulling my return hose off.

 

[jenandthegang]

Great. Thanks for the suggestions!

 

[bobodaclown]

Yes it can, mostly. I've installed a valve on the 1.5 inch plug on the bottom of my cartridge filter. Works well when I need to drain it down, but have never needed to vac to waste. It's always been clear. Thanks to the info found on this site.
Here's how I did it: adding-a-to-waste-drain-to-plumbing-solved-t35088.html?hilit=drain%20valve

 

[CPSScott]

Or you can install a 3 way valve after the pump and before the filter. When you want to vacuum to waste turn the valve so it diverts the water away from the filter. I would draw something, but I'm no artist.