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Filter cleaning guide

How to clean Hayward cartridge filters

Hayward cartridge filters, from compact single-element tanks to large multi-element systems, all depend on the same maintenance truth: the filter only works as well as the pleats are clean.

Here is how to deep-clean a Hayward cartridge element properly with a garden hose, and how the HALO360 makes it a faster, more thorough job.

Step by step

Cleaning a Hayward cartridge, step by step

  1. Step 1

    Shut down and open the tank

    Turn the pump off, release pressure at the air relief valve, and open the filter tank. Lift the cartridge (or cartridge cluster) out and set it where runoff can drain away from the pool.

  2. Step 2

    Connect the HALO360 to a garden hose

    The HALO360 runs on standard garden hose pressure, 40 to 110 psi, with a 5/8 or 3/4 inch hose up to 50 feet. Open the integrated ball valve and check the pressure gauge.

  3. Step 3

    Work the pleats top to bottom

    The focused 25-degree fan spray from the six custom-engineered nozzles drives water to the base of the pleats, lifting out packed dirt, oils, and debris without damaging the media. Rotate the cartridge and work each band until the water runs clear.

  4. Step 4

    Inspect before reinstalling

    Check the end caps, the band, and the pleat fabric for cracks, tears, or flattened pleats. A cartridge that is damaged or has years of service should be replaced rather than cleaned.

Fit

Does the HALO360 work on Hayward cartridges?

Yes. Hayward cartridge filters use standard pleated elements, and the HALO360 cleans standard pleated cartridges on regular garden hose pressure. The focused fan spray gets to the bottom of the pleats, which matters on tall Hayward elements where hand rinsing tends to clean the top third well and the bottom two thirds poorly.

Large multi-element Hayward tanks are where pros feel the difference most: the HALO360 cleans each cartridge deeper and faster and saves up to 150 gallons of water per filter versus cleaning by hand.

Pro tips

From the field

  • Number multi-element cartridges and their positions before pulling them so reassembly is fast and seats correctly.
  • Clean the tank o-ring and lube it lightly at every cartridge clean; most Hayward tank leaks are o-ring neglect, not tank failure.
  • Watch the pressure gauge after restart: a clean baseline that keeps creeping up fast suggests the media is worn out.

Questions

Hayward cartridge FAQ

How do I know when a Hayward cartridge filter needs cleaning?
Check the filter pressure gauge: roughly 8 to 10 psi above the clean baseline means it is time. Reduced returns at the pool wall and shorter skimmer draw are the visible symptoms.
Should I soak a Hayward cartridge in chemicals every clean?
Not every clean. A thorough mechanical clean handles routine dirt. A degreaser or filter-cleaner soak helps periodically when oils and scale build up; always rinse thoroughly afterward.

More guides: Pentair, Jandy, Pleatco, Unicel, Pentair Clean & Clear

Ready when you are

Cut this job in half

The HALO360 deep-cleans Hayward cartridges on standard garden hose pressure. Order direct from the maker for $599.

Get HALO360