We've had an Intex (sp?) above-ground pool for a few months; ignored it recently for a couple of weeks and now fighting the algae -- which led me to this site. Thought our friend was nuts when she said to start hitting it hard with Chlorox, but seems she was right! I realize now though, that I'm flying blind in terms of actual Cl levels, but pool seems headed in the right direction. Will be ordering a good test kit shortly!
Anyway, the pump and filter on this are fairly simplistic and the "backwash" recommendations I've seen would involve lots of unclamping/switching/clamping of hoses. After replacing the paper filter once I've been taking it out and rinsing the gunk out of the pleats with the kitchen sink sprayer. Flow, such as it is, seems fairly normal afterwards.
Is this ok to continue, and how long can I get away with reusing the same element? Is it better to keep reusing the "wet" cartridge, or switch back and forth while letting one dry?
Hopefully will be getting an in-ground pool next spring so I'm glad I found this site and learning a non-voodoo approach to maintenance!
Anyway, the pump and filter on this are fairly simplistic and the "backwash" recommendations I've seen would involve lots of unclamping/switching/clamping of hoses. After replacing the paper filter once I've been taking it out and rinsing the gunk out of the pleats with the kitchen sink sprayer. Flow, such as it is, seems fairly normal afterwards.
Is this ok to continue, and how long can I get away with reusing the same element? Is it better to keep reusing the "wet" cartridge, or switch back and forth while letting one dry?
Hopefully will be getting an in-ground pool next spring so I'm glad I found this site and learning a non-voodoo approach to maintenance!