Final answer:
To clean cartridge filters, avoid using a stainless steel brush or soaking them in pure muriatic acid. A recommended method includes soaking the cartridges in a degreaser and hosing off. It is essential to handle cleaning chemicals carefully and follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
Step-by-step explanation:
To clean cartridge filters, such as those used in a swimming pool or aquarium, a specific procedure should be followed to ensure they work efficiently and have a long lifespan. Using a stainless steel brush may damage the filter media. Soaking the filters overnight in pure muriatic acid could be too harsh and is dangerous unless done with professional understanding and proper precautions. Scrubbing with a strong detergent can be an effective method but may not be suitable for all types of filters. The recommended approach is often to soak the cartridges in a degreaser and hose off, which removes oils and large debris without damaging the filter material. It's important to handle cleaning chemicals with care, as suggested in the use of acidic cleaning agents for removal of inorganic deposits, and to follow manufacturer's instructions for cleaning cartridge filters to avoid damaging them.