Cartridge Filter Cleaning Tools - Aqua Comb vs. Filter Flosser vs. High Pressure Nozzle

Mar 28, 2024
7
Katy Texas
I've seen some older threads on this, but wanted to get some new comments and input on these tools.

We've had our pool for a year now and I am about to perform the first clean before we jump in this season. I initially started seeing things like the Cyclone Pool Filter Cleaner and the Cart Clean Pro, which is basically just a stand to place your filter on. They spin while you spray them and I guess it flings the crud out too. Definitely not paying that price when I can just use a broom handle, but then that led me to what attachment would be best? What's everyone's thoughts on these?

- High pressure nozzle - seems like a safe bet, but basically the same idea as using a regular garden hose?
- Aqua Comb looks pretty good except it looks like it's all ABS plastic. I like the idea of the combs getting in between the pleats, but it would be tedious work trying to get in between every single pleat.
- Filter Flosser made of aluminum so that's good. Not sure it can really get in between the pleats very well though.

Also, what is the safest thing to be soaking the filters in or spraying onto them before hosing them down? Would like to prolong the life of these filters as much as I can. I'm wondering how much buildup from oils and sunscreen would even in between the pleats. We don't have a spa/heater, so we are only swimming between May to September or so. The skimmer baskets have socks built into them to catch any large debris and we have no overhanging trees. It's actually pretty open and we just have two young crepe myrtles on the other side of the fence.
 
I use the filter flosser. Seems to work well.
I see no need to soak or use any products other than water to clean the filter.
I suppose if your pool gets very heavy sunscreen and/or hair products in it then some kind of cleaner may be warranted. TSP is the best to remove oily residue.
 
I use and like the Aqua Comb. It gets several pleats simultaneously, so it's not as tedious as you might imagine.

I've never seen the need to soak my cartridges in anything. I do ask my guests to allow sunscreen to absorb for 15 minutes before jumping in.
 
I use the filter flosser. Seems to work well.
I see no need to soak or use any products other than water to clean the filter.
I suppose if your pool gets very heavy sunscreen and/or hair products in it then some kind of cleaner may be warranted. TSP is the best to remove oily residue.
Does it seem to get all the gunk in between the pleats out pretty well?

I use and like the Aqua Comb. It gets several pleats simultaneously, so it's not as tedious as you might imagine.

I've never seen the need to soak my cartridges in anything. I do ask my guests to allow sunscreen to absorb for 15 minutes before jumping in.
How long has it lasted you? I'm a bit worried about it being plastic. What's your strategy when using the Aqua comb? Do you make sure you get in between every single pleat?
 
My pool builder actually installed skimmer baskets that have a mesh netting built in already.
Post a pic or two of your skimmer basket.
What brand/model number is your skimmer.

I'm with Marty @mknauss - Filter Flosser works great. Combine with hairnets in the skimmer basket and I get very little actul debris in the cartridge filter. Lots of dirt, but very little debris.
 
Post a pic or two of your skimmer basket.
What brand/model number is your skimmer.

I'm with Marty @mknauss - Filter Flosser works great. Combine with hairnets in the skimmer basket and I get very little actul debris in the cartridge filter. Lots of dirt, but very little debris.
According to our contract, they installed these:

 

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