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Is Your Hayward Cartridge Filter Not Filtering Properly? Here’s What to Check

A sparkling, crystal-clear pool is every pool owner’s goal—but when your Hayward cartridge filter stops working properly, that dream quickly fades into murky water. If you’ve noticed cloudy pool water, poor circulation, or unusual pressure readings, your filtration system may be compromised.

Hayward is known for its high-quality pool equipment, and cartridge filters are a popular choice due to their efficiency, ease of maintenance, and eco-friendliness. However, like all equipment, they require regular care and occasional troubleshooting.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons your Hayward cartridge filter might not be filtering properly—and what steps to take before calling in a professional.

Understanding How Hayward Cartridge Filters Work

Before diagnosing problems, it’s important to understand how your Hayward cartridge filter functions.

A cartridge filter works by pushing pool water through a pleated polyester filter element that traps dirt, debris, and microscopic contaminants. The clean water is then returned to the pool. Over time, the filter can become clogged, damaged, or inefficient—leading to issues in water clarity and flow.

Clogging

Pressure issues

Improper installation

Poor water chemistry

Wear and tear on internal parts

1. Check for Clogged or Dirty Filter Cartridges

Symptoms:

Cloudy water

Decreased water flow

High pressure on the gauge

The most common issue is a dirty or clogged filter cartridge. If debris builds up in the pleats of the cartridge, water cannot pass through effectively, reducing filtration performance.

Solution:

Remove the cartridge from the housing.

Rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose, using a nozzle to get into the pleats.

For deep cleaning, soak the cartridge overnight in a filter cleaner or diluted muriatic acid solution (as per manufacturer instructions).

Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling.

 Pro Tip: Clean the cartridge every 4–6 weeks during heavy use. Every year or as needed, depending on wear and performance, replace it.

Keep your pool sparkling with the help of reliable Hayward cartridge pool filters.

2. Inspect the Pressure Gauge

Symptoms:

Unusually high or low PSI readings

Filter runs too frequently

Water not circulating properly

Your Hayward filter is equipped with a pressure gauge that indicates the system’s performance. A high-pressure reading usually means the filter is dirty or blocked. A low-pressure reading may indicate a problem with the pump, air leaks, or water flow.

Solution:

Clean or replace the filter cartridge.

Look for obstructions in the plumbing lines, pump basket, or skimmer.

Inspect for air leaks in the suction line, especially around pump lid o-rings or fittings.

 Maintenance Tip: Note the pressure reading after installing a clean cartridge. This becomes your “baseline.” Add 8–10 PSI to this number as your indicator for the next cleaning.

3. Examine for Damaged or Worn Cartridges

Symptoms:

Debris bypassing the filter

Uneven water clarity

Filter looks intact but still underperforms

If your cartridge is clean but still not filtering properly, it may be damaged internally. Tears, collapsed pleats, or a broken core allow debris to pass through into the pool.

Solution:

Carefully examine the cartridge element for cracks, holes, or flattened pleats.

Check the end caps and inner core for structural damage.

Replace the cartridge if any signs of wear are present.

Note: Even high-end cartridges lose efficiency after extended use, typically after 12–24 months depending on pool usage and maintenance.

4. Assess Water Chemistry Balance

Symptoms:

Algae growth despite filtration

Cloudy or green water

Filter clogs faster than usual

Unbalanced pool chemistry can overwhelm your filter system. High levels of calcium, metals, or algae spores can clog the cartridge prematurely or even cause scaling.

Solution:

Test your water for:

pH (7.4–7.6)

Chlorine (1–3 ppm)

Total alkalinity (80–120 ppm)

Calcium hardness (200–400 ppm)

Shock the pool if necessary to eliminate contaminants.

Backwash or clean the filter after shocking or heavy chemical treatment.

 Best Practice: Always maintain balanced chemistry to reduce strain on your filtration system.

5. Check for Improper Filter Installation

Symptoms:

Leaking filter housing

Cartridge doesn’t sit securely

Pressure fluctuations

If the cartridge isn’t seated properly, water can bypass the filter entirely or cause uneven pressure. Likewise, a misaligned or cross-threaded lid can result in leaks and reduced performance.

Solution:

Turn off the system and open the housing.

Ensure the cartridge is centered and properly aligned.

Lubricate the O-rings with a silicone-based lubricant.

Tighten the lid evenly, using manufacturer guidelines for torque or hand pressure.

 Install Tip: Always refer to your Hayward manual when reassembling the filter to avoid damaging threads or seals.

6. Inspect the Pool Pump and Plumbing System

Symptoms:

Low water flow despite clean filter

Pump not priming

Filter pressure won’t stabilize

Your cartridge filter relies on your pool pump to deliver consistent water flow. If your pump is undersized, malfunctioning, or struggling with suction issues, the filter won’t work effectively—even if it’s clean.

Solution:

Check the pump basket and impeller for blockages.

Ensure proper pump sizing relative to the filter (GPM vs. filter flow rate).

Look for leaks or air bubbles in the return lines.

Replace or service the pump if needed.

Reminder: Undersized pumps and oversized filters can cause inefficiency and unfiltered water.

7. Consider Environmental Factors

Symptoms:

Filter clogs quickly after cleaning

Excess debris in the pool

Algae and organics overwhelming the system

Sometimes, the issue isn’t the filter—it’s the environment around your pool. Falling leaves, heavy bather loads, nearby construction, or high pollen levels can fill your filter faster than normal.

Solution:

Use a pool cover when the pool is not in use.

Skim and vacuum the pool regularly.

Clean the cartridge more frequently during high-debris periods.

Trim nearby vegetation or trees contributing organic matter.

 Eco Tip: A pool-friendly landscape and regular surface maintenance greatly extend filter life.

When to Replace Your Hayward Cartridge Filter

Even with proper care, no filter lasts forever. If your Hayward cartridge filter continues to underperform after all the steps above, it might be time for a full replacement—especially if:

You’ve used the same cartridge for 2+ years

You notice deep creases, collapsed pleats, or structural damage

Your water clarity doesn’t improve even after thorough cleaning

 Recommended Replacement Frequency: Every 1 to 2 years, depending on usage, water chemistry, and maintenance habits.

Keep Your Pool Clear with Proactive Filter Care

A Hayward cartridge filter is a powerful tool in maintaining pool hygiene, but it’s only as good as the care it receives. By proactively checking for clogs, pressure changes, wear and tear, and pump-related issues, you can avoid murky water and enjoy a crystal-clear pool all season long.

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The Most Common Pentair Filter Leaks and How to Repair Them

Maintaining a crystal-clear swimming pool demands efficient equipment, and at the heart of any clean pool lies a reliable filtration system. Pentair, a leading brand in pool equipment, is known for its high-quality filters, including cartridge, sand, and DE (diatomaceous earth) models. However, even top-tier systems are not immune to wear and tear. One of the most common issues pool owners face is filter leakage.

A leaking Pentair filter not only reduces filtration efficiency but can also lead to water waste, higher utility bills, and potential damage to surrounding pool equipment. Fortunately, with the correct information and equipment, the majority of leaks can be found and fixed. This article will guide you through the most common Pentair filter leaks, their causes, and step-by-step instructions on how to fix them.

Understanding Pentair Pool Filters: An Overview

It's critical to comprehend the fundamental parts of Pentair filters before beginning any repairs:

Tank Body: The main shell of the filter, housing the internal media.

Multiport or Push-Pull Valve: Controls flow for filtering, backwashing, and rinsing.

O-Rings and Gaskets: Ensure a watertight seal at connections and fittings.

Clamp Assembly: Secures the filter body and lid together (for models such as FNS Plus and Clean & Clear).

Drain Plug: Allows draining of water for maintenance.

Common Leak Points and How to Repair Them

1. Tank Clamp or Band Leaks

Cause:

Loose or misaligned clamp bands are a frequent source of leaks, especially after cleaning or reassembly. If the tank halves aren't properly aligned, water will escape through the seam.

Symptoms:

Water trickling or spraying from the center seam

Visible water stains or rust near the clamp

Repair Steps:

Turn off the pump and relieve system pressure by opening the air relief valve.

Inspect the clamp band for cracks or damage.

Loosen and remove the clamp, then carefully realign the tank halves.

Examine and grease the O-ring located within the tank seam. Replace it if it's stretched, cracked, or flattened.

Re-seat the clamp evenly and tighten according to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.

Restart the system and check for leaks.

Pro Tip: Always apply a silicone-based lubricant to O-rings for a better seal and easier maintenance.

For optimal performance, make sure you have high-quality Pentair filter parts that keep your pool water clean and free of debris.

2. Cracked Filter Tank

Cause:

Over-tightening of clamps, freezing temperatures, or age-related degradation can cause the fiberglass or polymer tank to crack.

Symptoms:

Persistent leaking from a specific spot on the body

Hairline cracks visible on the tank shell

Water pooling around the filter base

Repair Steps:

Shut down the system and relieve pressure.

Identify the crack. If it’s minor, you may attempt a temporary epoxy seal.

For permanent repair, replace the filter tank or entire filter unit, as most manufacturers do not recommend structural repair due to safety concerns.

Note: Cracked tanks should be treated seriously. High pressure in pool systems can make this a safety hazard.

3. Leaking Drain Plug

Cause:

The drain plug or drain cap can become brittle or cracked, or the O-ring may degrade over time.

Symptoms:

Steady dripping from the bottom of the filter

Water loss even when the system is off

Repair Steps:

Close the air relief valve and turn off the pump.

Unscrew the drain plug and inspect the O-ring.

Replace the O-ring or the entire plug if damaged.

After lubricating the replacement O-ring, firmly replace the plug.

4. O-Ring or Gasket Failures

Cause:

O-rings and gaskets can become worn, brittle, or flattened due to age, chemical exposure, or improper installation.

Common Leak Locations:

Pump-to-filter union

Multiport valve connections

Air relief valve

Repair Steps:

Isolate the leaking joint and disassemble the affected part.

After removing the old O-ring, thoroughly clean the groove.

Install a new O-ring and apply pool-safe lubricant.

Reassemble and test for leaks.

Reminder: Never use petroleum jelly; it degrades rubber and can cause leaks to worsen.

5. Leaking Multiport or Backwash Valve

Cause:

Internal spider gasket failure or valve housing cracks can lead to leaks when water bypasses the correct channels.

Symptoms:

Water leaking out of the waste line during normal filtration

Drips around the valve handle or housing

Repair Steps:

Turn off the pump and move the valve handle to the “Closed” position.

Disassemble the valve top by removing screws or bolts.

Inspect the spider gasket for warping or separation.

Replace the gasket with an exact model-specific replacement.

Reassemble and lubricate internal components.

Test the valve in various positions for leaks.

6. Air Relief Valve Leaks

Cause:

The air relief valve, located at the top of the filter, may crack or its sealing O-ring may fail.

Symptoms:

Water spraying or bubbling from the top

Difficulty building pressure in the system

Repair Steps:

Remove the valve by twisting it counterclockwise.

Inspect the threads and O-ring.

Replace the valve or O-ring as needed.

Apply Teflon tape if thread damage is suspected.

Reinstall and tighten gently.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Leak-Free Operation

While knowing how to fix a leak is essential, preventing them in the first place is even better. Here are key maintenance tips to keep your Pentair filter in optimal condition:

Regularly Inspect O-Rings and Seals

Check O-rings during every filter cleaning and replace them annually, even if no problems are visible.

Don’t Over-Tighten

Excessive tightening of filter clamps or unions can damage threads and crack plastic fittings.

Protect From Freezing

Drain and winterize your filter system in cold climates to prevent freeze damage.

Maintain Balanced Water Chemistry

Unbalanced pH and chlorine levels can deteriorate seals and internal components.

Keep a Spare Parts Kit

Keep a kit handy with common Pentair replacement parts such as O-rings, drain plugs, and lubricant.

A leaking Pentair pool filter doesn't have to spell disaster. By identifying the most common sources of leaks—such as faulty O-rings, misaligned clamps, or worn drain plugs—you can often resolve the issue quickly and affordably. Regular maintenance and careful reassembly after cleaning go a long way in preventing future problems.

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Lochinvar & A.O. Smith 100208754 Gasket Kit for Pool Heaters

The Lochinvar & A.O. Smith 100208754 Pool Heater Gasket Kit is a crucial maintenance component designed to ensure the optimal performance of pool heating systems. This gasket kit is specifically compatible with Lochinvar and A.O. Smith pool heaters, providing a reliable solution for sealing heater assemblies, it is both lightweight and essential for maintaining the integrity of the heating system. The primary function of the 100208754 gasket kit is to create a secure seal between various components of the pool heater, such as the heat exchanger and the heater body. This prevents leaks and ensures that the heater operates efficiently by maintaining proper pressure and preventing the escape of water or heat. Proper sealing with the gasket kit enhances the overall performance of the pool heater, helping to prevent potential issues such as water leaks, heat loss, and reduced efficiency.

Improve your pool system with the Lochinvar & A.O. Smith Flow Gasket Kit for Pool Heaters for reliable performance and efficiency.

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Lochinvar & A.O. Smith 100208655 Flow Switch for Pool Heaters

The Lochinvar & A.O. Smith 100208655 Pool Heater Flow Switch is a critical component designed to ensure the efficient operation of pool heating systems. This flow switch is specifically engineered for use in pool heaters, where it plays a vital role in monitoring and regulating water flow. the switch is compact yet robust, built to withstand the demands of both residential and commercial pool heating applications. The primary function of the 100208655 flow switch is to detect the presence and flow rate of water within the heating system. When water flow is detected, the switch allows the pool heater to operate, ensuring that the heating elements are only activated when there is adequate water flow. This prevents potential damage to the heater and ensures efficient operation.

Improve your pool system with the Lochinvar & A.O. Smith Flow Switch for Pool Heaters for reliable performance and efficiency.

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Lochinvar & A.O. Smith 100170648 Heater Sensor for Pools & Spas

The Lochinvar & A.O. Smith 100170648 Sensor Pool Heater is a specialized component designed for accurate temperature monitoring in pool heating systems. This sensor is used in both residential and commercial pool heating applications, ensuring that water temperatures are precisely regulated for optimal comfort and efficiency. With a, this sensor is compact yet highly effective. The primary function of the 100170648 sensor is to measure the temperature of the water and provide real-time feedback to the pool heater system. This allows the heating system to make necessary adjustments, ensuring that the pool water reaches and maintains the desired temperature efficiently. By using this sensor, pool owners can benefit from improved temperature control, which contributes to a more consistent and enjoyable swimming experience.

Improve your pool system with the Lochinvar & A.O. Smith Heater Sensor for Pools & Spas for reliable performance and efficiency.

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Pool Plumbing Parts Valves Parts for Swimming Pools

swimming pool Valves and plumbing are crucial elements of your pool’s circulation system, ensuring that water flows smoothly through the filter, heater, and other components to keep your pool clean and at the right temperature. Properly installed and maintained plumbing helps prevent leaks and ensures that your pool equipment functions efficiently. Pool valves, in particular, are vital for directing water flow and allowing you to control different aspects of your pool’s system. Whether you’re diverting water to the spa, adjusting the flow to the heater, or managing filtration, having reliable valves in place is essential for smooth operation. There are several types of pool valves, each serving a specific purpose. Three-way valves allow you to direct water to multiple locations, such as the heater, pool, or spa. Ball valves offer a simple on/off operation, while check valves prevent water from flowing backward, protecting your equipment from damage.

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Swimming Pool Pump Parts Pool Motor Parts

parts of pool pump motors are the heart of your pool’s circulation system, working tirelessly to keep water moving through the filter, heater, and other equipment. Over time, the continuous operation can lead to wear and tear, making it crucial to have access to high-quality replacement parts. Pool motor parts are vital for the smooth operation of your pool pump. Key components like motor bearings, capacitors, seals, and shafts can wear out over time due to constant use and exposure to water and chemicals. In addition to motor parts, pool pump parts play a critical role in maintaining the overall efficiency of your pool’s circulation system. Components such as impellers, gaskets, pump lids, and O-rings are essential for the proper functioning of the pump. These parts help in creating the necessary suction to move water through the pool’s filtration and heating systems. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of pool motor and pump parts are essential for ensuring that your pool’s circulation system remains efficient and effective.

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Swimming Pool Heater Parts Pool Controls

pool heater control panel are essential components for maintaining the perfect water temperature, ensuring that your pool is always ready for a comfortable swim, regardless of the weather. Pool heaters come in various types, including gas, electric, and solar, each designed to meet different heating needs. Gas heaters are known for their rapid heating capabilities, making them ideal for pools that need to be heated quickly. Electric heaters are more energy-efficient, making them suitable for smaller pools or spas. Solar heaters use the sun's energy, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for heating your pool. The efficiency of these heaters depends on various parts working in harmony. Key swimming pool heater parts include the heat exchanger, which transfers heat to the pool water, the thermostat that controls the temperature, and the igniter, which starts the heating process in gas heaters.

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Swimming Pool Filter Parts Pool Cleaner Parts

pool safety supplies Maintaining a pristine pool requires the right combination of pool filters and cleaners, which are essential in keeping your water clear, safe, and inviting. Pool filters are the first line of defense, working tirelessly to remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from your pool water. There are several types of filters available, each designed to meet specific needs. Cartridge filters are known for their ease of use and maintenance, featuring a replaceable filter cartridge that traps fine particles. Sand filters use specially graded sand to capture impurities, offering a low-maintenance option that’s perfect for large pools. Diatomaceous earth (DE) filters provide the highest level of filtration, using a fine powder to filter out even the smallest particles, making them ideal for those who demand the utmost in water clarity. Pool filter parts include filter cartridges, sand, DE powder, o-rings, pump impellers, and pressure gauges ensure your pool filter work efficiently.

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Swimming Pool Safety Equipment & Accessories

ideas to hide pool equipment is vital for ensuring a safe environment around your pool, protecting both swimmers and bystanders from potential hazards. Among the essential safety tools are items like folding umbrellas, which provide necessary shade and help prevent heat-related issues. These umbrellas are designed with durable materials and can be easily folded away when not in use, making them both practical and essential for any poolside setting. Another important safety component is the holder lock ring assembly, which is used to secure various pool equipment, ensuring that they remain firmly in place during operation. This assembly is crucial for preventing accidental dislodgment, which can lead to equipment malfunction or injury. The holder lock ring assembly is typically made of corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring longevity and reliability even in a pool environment.

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Swimming Pool Safety Equipment & Accessories

Swimming hide pool equipment is vital for ensuring a safe environment around your pool, protecting both swimmers and bystanders from potential hazards. Among the essential safety tools are items like folding umbrellas, which provide necessary shade and help prevent heat-related issues. These umbrellas are designed with durable materials and can be easily folded away when not in use, making them both practical and essential for any poolside setting. Another important safety component is the holder lock ring assembly, which is used to secure various pool equipment, ensuring that they remain firmly in place during operation. This assembly is crucial for preventing accidental dislodgment, which can lead to equipment malfunction or injury. The holder lock ring assembly is typically made of corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring longevity and reliability even in a pool environment.

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Swimming Pool Pump Parts Pool Motor Parts in USA

Swimming pool pumps and motors are the heart of your pool’s circulation system, working tirelessly to keep water moving through the filter, heater, and other equipment. Over time, the continuous operation can lead to wear and tear, making it crucial to have access to high-quality replacement parts. Pool motor parts are vital for the smooth operation of your pool pump. Key components like motor bearings, capacitors, seals, and shafts can wear out over time due to constant use and exposure to water and chemicals. In addition to motor parts, pool pump parts play a critical role in maintaining the overall efficiency of your pool’s circulation system. Components such as impellers, gaskets, pump lids, and O-rings are essential for the proper functioning of the pump.

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Pool Replacement Parts Swimming Pool Equipment Parts

Maintaining pool equipment parts requires more than just regular cleaning; it involves ensuring that all your pool equipment is in top working condition. Over time, even the best pool systems can experience wear and tear, making the availability of replacement parts essential. Pool replacement parts play a crucial role in extending the life of your pool’s systems and preventing costly repairs or replacements. One of the most common needs is replacement parts for pool pumps. These include impellers, seals, motor bearings, and gaskets, all of which are vital for maintaining optimal water circulation. A well-functioning pump is essential for keeping your pool water clean and properly filtered, so regular inspection and timely replacement of these components are important.

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Swimming Pool Heater Parts Pool Controls Online

Swimming Pool Pool heaters and controls are essential components for maintaining the perfect water temperature, ensuring that your pool is always ready for a comfortable swim, regardless of the weather. Pool heaters come in various types, including gas, electric, and solar, each designed to meet different heating needs. Gas heaters are known for their rapid heating capabilities, making them ideal for pools that need to be heated quickly. Electric heaters are more energy-efficient, making them suitable for smaller pools or spas. Solar heaters use the sun's energy, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for heating your pool. The efficiency of these heaters depends on various parts working in harmony.

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Swimming Pool Filter Parts Pool Cleaner Parts

swimming pool sand filter parts Maintaining a pristine pool requires the right combination of pool filters and cleaners, which are essential in keeping your water clear, safe, and inviting. Pool filters are the first line of defense, working tirelessly to remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from your pool water. There are several types of filters available, each designed to meet specific needs. Cartridge filters are known for their ease of use and maintenance, featuring a replaceable filter cartridge that traps fine particles. Sand filters use specially graded sand to capture impurities, offering a low-maintenance option that’s perfect for large pools.

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Pool Plumbing Parts Valves Parts for Swimming Pools in USA

Pool Valves and plumbing are crucial elements of your pool’s circulation system, ensuring that water flows smoothly through the filter, heater, and other components to keep your pool clean and at the right temperature. Properly installed and maintained plumbing helps prevent leaks and ensures that your pool equipment functions efficiently. Pool valves, in particular, are vital for directing water flow and allowing you to control different aspects of your pool’s system. Whether you’re diverting water to the spa, adjusting the flow to the heater, or managing filtration, having reliable valves in place is essential for smooth operation. There are several types of pool valves, each serving a specific purpose. Three-way valves allow you to direct water to multiple locations, such as the heater, pool, or spa.

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Laars Heating Systems Pool Heater Parts & Accessories

Laars Heating Systems is one of the prominent brands that offer pool heaters and accessories that are of superior quality to offer the best performance and durability. They offer pool heaters as well as other pool-related products to cater to the needs of the different pool owners. Their range of equipment includes pool heaters along with various pool-related products designed to meet the diverse needs of pool owners. The brand's pool heaters are known for their efficiency in maintaining the perfect water temperature for a comfortable swimming experience. Apart from pool heaters, Laars has products such as pool heater igniters and heater flame rods, which are crucial in the running of pool systems and heating pools.