Can I Use Simple Green to Clean My Pool Cartridge Filter?

The next step in ensuring clean, fresh water is keeping your pool clean and the filtration system on point. If you own a pool, you might have wondered whether using household cleaning products like Simple Green to clean your pool cartridge filters is safe. So you own a robot pool cleaner like the Beatbot AquaSense Beatbot AquaSense 2 Pro and wonder if adding Simple Green to your pool robot filter cleaning helps. In this blog, we will answer that and explain how you can effectively care for your filter and pool cleaner.

What Is Simple Green, and Is It Safe to Use on Pool Filters?

Simple Green cleaner is widely used for its non-toxic formula and adaptability for multiple uses. It is commonly used for cleaning kitchen surfaces and greasy machinery. However, caution should most definitely prevail when cleaning a pool filter cartridge. Simple Green has a list of ingredients that might be too strong for pool filters and the sensitive fabrics that make up the majority of pool filter cartridges.

And though Simple Green is pretty safe in most cleaning situations, it’s not always the best option for pool filters. Since pool cartridge filters are typically made of pleated fabric material, they may deteriorate and become blocked if they come into contact with strong cleaners, such as Simple Green. However, for optimum results, it is advisable to use a cleaner specifically designed for pool filters (pool filter cleaning solutions or specialized acid-based cleaners); they are gentle yet effective and will eliminate oils, dirt, and debris without ruining the filter.

Alternatives to Simple Green for Cleaning Pool Filters

Here are better, safer options for Simple Green that work:

Pool Filter Cleaners for Commercial Use: These chemicals are used to clean cleanters. They tend to be enzyme-based and effective without damaging the filter’s fabric.

Acid Wash: An acidic pool solution can help eliminate calcium and mineral buildup in heavily soiled filters.

Soaking Solutions: Any mild pool filter soaking solution can be made up and used to soak filter elements for several hours or overnight.

DIY Vinegar Solution: A vinegar and water mixture can be used for general cleaning, though it’s less effective on tough debris.

What Is the Impact of a Robotic Pool Cleaner on Filter Maintenance?

While keeping your pool filter clean is paramount, you don’t want it to be overworked due to too much debris. This is where a robotic pool cleaner, such as the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, comes in handy. It helps you pick up larger dirt and debris from your pool, significantly reducing the load on your filtration system. This will mean that your filter needs to work less often and that you will have to clean it less often, too.

Finally, utilizing a pool vacuum robot or swimming pool robot cleaner will relieve some of the stress on your filter, allowing it to stay in good shape longer. This model possesses advanced navigation technology and can zip around the pool floor, cleaning along the way, even in tight corners. This helps keep your water cleaner and reduces the debris that filters through to your filtration system.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Filter?

How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Filter? Depending on Use: 1 to 3 Months The more often your robot pool cleaner works, the less likely you’ll have to clean the filter. If you notice less water flow or see that your pool isn’t as clean as it usually is, it might be time to clean the filter.

Also, check the filter after using your pool vacuum for algae or after a large amount of organic debris has entered the pool. Pool cleaners such as the Maytronics pool cleaner or a wall-climbing pool cleaner can kick up algae or fine dirt particles that can possibly build up in your filter. A regular clean-up of your filter will leave your pool sparkling and the water transparent.

Conclusion

Simple Green might be perfect for many household cleaning jobs, but it’s not the way to clean a pool cartridge filter. Use specialized pool filter cleaning products to ensure that you’re treating your filter correctly and keeping it cleaner for longer. Regularly using your robot pool cleaner (the Beatbot AquaSense 2 Pro, for example)  reduces the burden on your filter, which helps keep it running longer.

An effective pool filter and cleaning robot can make a world of difference in the overall cleanliness and efficiency of your pool in the long run. Sticking to a solid cleaning schedule for both will allow you to enjoy your pool year-round.