Is it ok to remove my cartridge bands?

[richierich]

I was trying to hose off the cartridge filter this weekend and found it difficult to 'open' the pleats and get in between each pleat with the bands wrapped around it. Would the fine folks of TFP recommend removing them or should I keep them on for better 'structure' of the filter cartridge?

Thanks

 

[triptyx]

You want that structural support. Generally when people here with older cartridges have the bands break or come off, they replace them with zip ties.

That said, I agree - it's a real PITA to get the crud out of those pleats!

 

[pooldv]

I don't think the band's are needed. My theory (100% made up with no facts ) is that the water is going from the outside in so the structural support needed is provided by the tube in the middle. Also, given that I've seen lots of folks run their cartridge filters with no bands. When it is time for new cartridges get some Pleatcos. They are a lot better than my original Pentair cartridges. Last longer, easier to clean, cheaper. All around better. And the bands are still on them.

Oh, and I use a filter flosser, available from Inyo or Sunplay, to clean my cartridges. Also the brass screw nozzles that shoot one jet stream of water are good for the really dirty times.

 

[triptyx]

Thanks pooldv!