I've got it all wrong

[DThompson55]

If you've followed me you know I've just had terrible pool problems for a few years. I think I've found the underlying issue. I've been using a Sta-Rite PLM100 cartridge filter, which I didn't realize until this morning has a max 30GPM flow rating, with a 70GPM pump for three years. So chances are that PLM100 is ruined, agreed? So which way to go? Buy a whole new matched pump and filter from a reputable dealer? That seems like the most expensive. Or find a filter that can handle a 70GPM flow and somehow cobble it onto the existing sta-rite base and do some repiping? That seems like the most work. Or replace the PLM100 cartridge and get a smaller matching motor/pump? Also it never dawned on me to hire a professional installer? Maybe that would be a good investment?

 

[mknauss]

Are the filters damaged when you remove them to clean them?

I doubt your pump puts out 70 gpm in real life.

 

[DThompson55]

I don't know.

 

[mknauss]

I don't know.

Do you remove the cartridges to clean them?

 

[DThompson55]

Yes. We remove the cartridge, spray it down with a hose, and then put it back in the unit. We do that daily. I just looked carefully and I don't see any holes or rips or tears. So maybe there's no damage or maybe there is and I just cannot see it. I don't know.

 

[mknauss]

Daily? Yikes. I clean my cartridges once a year.

If the pleats are not deformed or there are tears in the pleats or degradation of the end caps, the filters are likely fine. You would see a difference in filter pressure when clean if they become damaged.

You need to clean the filter when your filter pressure rises by 25% over clean pressure.