HELP! Hayward Cartridge Filter

[eljefe281]

More ideas of a completely uneducated nature:

Are you sure it's the right model of cartridge?

Is it possible the builder plumbed the filter backwards? Maybe the flow going out-to-in works just fine with no cartridge in, but not so well with the cartridge in.

Is it possible that there is some type of internal support ring that's missing from the filter? That is to say, when you put the cartridge in, it rests on the floor of the filter housing, covering up the outlet instead of being supported up above the outlet?

I wonder if the downstream check valve may be sticking. Without any cartridge in, the pump can force it open. With the cartridge in, the pump output is restricted to a point below the threshold required to overcome the sticking.

[SeanB.]

Is this a new pool, or just new to you? If it's new, your builder should be able to assist you in figuring out the cause of the problem. I would call them and ask for someone to come and check it out.

[divnkd101]

If it is a new pool... Be certain to verify position of filter in tank. Verify as well that no small chips of plaster, rocks, mud chunks have settled at the bottom of the tank after start up and were dislodged when you pulled the filter loose. Make sure to fully vent the filter once pump primes and fills. FYI, if this is a new pool, your pool builder should have gone through all steps of pulling/inspecting/ cleaning the filter and gone through the re-install process. Good Luck and keep us posted.

[ehorn]

On thing to check dependingon your filter. I work with a guy who had a similar problem. The builder had to send out the plumber and the guy was so embarassed. They had the filter plumbed backwards. So he turned the filter 180 degrees, reconnected it, replaced the filter, and poof fixed.

[momof2grlz]

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. My PB is stymied on our problem. He can't find any leaks and the problems seem to work themselves out after the equipment runs for several hours. Now he's thinking perhaps the pump is slightly undersized for the run it has from the skimmer to the filter. He's going to try increasing the pump motor to 1-1/2 HP. I sure hope that resolves our problems. I'm afraid to touch anything, clean anything, open anything for fear of starting all the problems again.

I'll post again after the motor is increased. Keep your fingers crossed.