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E-311 Pool Nation Podcast – Pool Filtration Explained: The Truth About Cartridge Filters Every Pool

📅 July 27, 2026 ⏱️ 1:30:26 🎤 Edgar de Jesus, John JJ Flawless, Zac Nicholas, Rich Medina

Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Introduction & Guests
    Edgar de Jesus introduces co-hosts John JJ Flawless and Zack the Pool Boy Nicholas, along with guest Rich Medina from Encore Filtration, an industry veteran.
  • 0:11
    Rich Medina's Background
    Rich Medina shares his journey from New York City, his engineering background, his military service as a combat engineer, and his entry into the pool industry.
  • 0:28
    Transition to Encore Filtration
    Rich discusses his 14-year tenure at Pleatco as SVP of Engineering and his subsequent move to Encore Filtration, highlighting the company's vision and team.
  • 0:38
    Importance of Filtration
    The hosts and guest emphasize the critical role of filtration in maintaining clear pool water, effective sanitation, and overall customer satisfaction, explaining how it removes suspended solids.
  • 0:46
    Cartridge Filtration Explained
    Rich details the mechanics of cartridge filtration, including the concept of a 'filter cake,' the difference between spun-bond polyester and woven materials, and the benefits of point-bonded fabric over flat-bonded for superior filtration and cleaning.
  • 0:59
    Core & Band Importance
    The discussion covers the significance of a cartridge's core design, comparing injection-molded cores to PVC cores, and the critical role of pleat bands in maintaining filter integrity and efficiency.
  • 1:11
    Proper Filter Cleaning
    Rich and John provide best practices for cleaning cartridge filters, emphasizing the removal of 'filter cake' with a hose and using degreasers or enzyme cleaners for oils and biofilm, while cautioning against harsh chemicals like muriatic acid.
  • 1:19
    Filter Replacement & Flow Meters
    The hosts advocate for proactive filter replacement (every two years) and regular cleaning (every four months), and Rich introduces the concept of using flow meters instead of pressure gauges to monitor pool health effectively.

Speakers

E
Edgar de Jesus
Host
J
John JJ Flawless
Host
Z
Zac Nicholas
Host
R
Rich Medina
Engineer, Encore Filtration

Key Takeaways

Prioritize filtration as a cornerstone of pool maintenance; it directly impacts water chemistry, sanitation efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Understand the distinction between filter types and materials: point-bonded cartridge filters offer superior filtration and easier cleaning compared to flat-bonded alternatives due to their manufacturing process.

Recognize the importance of the filter core design; injection-molded cores with higher open areas ensure maximum utilization of filter media and prevent channeling.

Educate clients on the critical role of pleat bands; these bands maintain the structural integrity and efficiency of cartridge filters, preventing pleat collapse and ensuring even filtration.

Implement a proactive filter cleaning and replacement schedule; recommend cleaning every four months and replacing cartridges every two years to maintain optimal performance and avoid costly chemical imbalances or system wear.

Advocate for flow meters over pressure gauges; while pressure indicates debris buildup, flow meters provide a more accurate measure of water turnover, which is essential for maintaining healthy pool water as per CDC guidelines.

Choose professional-grade products; partner with manufacturers like Encore Filtration who do not compete directly with service professionals online, ensuring access to quality products and fair pricing.

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