In our case, the cartridge filter is in a very large fiberglass canister, bigger than a trash can. Probably about 32" in diameter, I'll guess, and about as tall as me though is is off the ground a foot perhaps.
Once the securing band around the middle is loosened, someone has to wrap their arms around the top half and pull it off over the tops of the 4 cartridges inside and carry it away to set it down in the grass. It's not terribly heavy but it is not lightweight either and getting it unstuck usually takes some effort.
Then, after cleaning, it all has to be put back. The second person keeps the O-ring from leaping out of place as the first person gingerly sets the top back into place, while avoiding lines and all these wires that were placed so badly. Somehow we both end up itchy, in spite of having long sleeves on.
But, next time we will try the hairspray beforehand.