Swapping filter element.

[ChuckTin]

Wifie started her campaign for me to swap the filter elements. Here's the setup: ( 2 pics attached).

Here's the question: What the H does it take to get this easier!

Step 1 - I turnoff/make certain pump timer won't come on.

Step 2 - bleed off vacuum by opening valve on top right of filter housing.

Step 3 ... 10(?!!) Pry bar inserted where upper housing fits into lower. Huff, puff, grunt and curse. Pry here, pry there, pry 180 right, pry 180 left. Till the bloody thing comes up!

There's got to be a better way!

I've got a good O ring (check monthly), even got a spare, also good. Well lubed up with proper grease. Maybe even over lubed and it's evenly seated, not stretched.

That tube (what is it?) In the center of the filter is in the correct position an is centered when the filter upper housing goes back on.

As you can see in pics there's not a lot of room to manuver around the piping. I'm concerned I'll break off the SWG or a valve.

Sidebar: doing this monthly courtesy of ... (deleted, never mind).

Any hints to relieve my strain?

 

[Arizonarob]

I’m not sure on your type of cartridge filter, but I know when I clean mine.
1. Disconnect power
2. Release pressure via top valve
3. Open drain plug on bottom of filter
4. Take lid off pump basket

Now, I have learned to do this early in the morning when it’s nice and cool and the sun is off the equipment. A few taps of a rubber mallet, and it opens right up.

 

[mknauss]

Only clean your filter when the pressures rises by 25% over the clean filter pressure.

 

[ChuckTin]

Tell that to wifie[emoji35]

Only clean your filter when the pressures rises by 25% over the clean filter pressure.

 

[ChuckTin]

Sounds like mine minus the rubber mallet.

I’m not sure on your type of cartridge filter, but I know when I clean mine.
1. Disconnect power
2. Release pressure via top valve
3. Open drain plug on bottom of filter
4. Take lid off pump basket

Now, I have learned to do this early in the morning when it’s nice and cool and the sun is off the equipment. A few taps of a rubber mallet, and it opens right up.

 

[mknauss]

Tell that to wifie[emoji35]

A dirty filter works better than clean one, to a point.