Squeaky Clean Water – your source for water filters

Pool filters are a vital part of any pool system. The filter works to remove debris and keep the water clean, which is crucial for preventing algae growth and unsightly stains. There are three main types of pool filters: sand, DE (diatomaceous earth), and cartridge. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of each filter type as well as when it is best to use that particular filter in your pool setup. Let's begin by explaining how a pool filter works and what it does. The simplest explanation would be that it filters water. Pool filters are designed to remove dirt, debris, and other particles from the water. Obviously it gets a little more complicated than that, so let's dive in a little further. What is a Micron and Why Does it Matter for Pool Filters? Microns are a measurement of the size of particles suspended in air or water. The rating for a pool filters is based on the size of the micron they can capture. In other words, the lower the micron rating number, the cleaner the water will be in your swimming pool because smaller particles will be removed. Simply put, smaller particles removed means clearer water. How big is a micron? A micron is actually short for "millionth of a meter". The human eye generally can't see anything smaller than 50-60 microns. A human hair measures about 70 microns in width, but this depends on the thickness of the hair. So, let's break this down into why it matters for the types of pool filters. What Are The Three Most Commonly Used Pool Filters? Cartridge Pool Filters A cartridge pool filter is a cylindrical filter that has a filter cartridge with pleats that trap dirt, debris and other particles. The water is then cycled through the cartridge to remove these things before being released back into the pool. Cartridge pool filters can capture debris in the range of 10-15 microns. These filters are probably the easiest to maintain and can last from 12 to 18 months depending on usage. The replacement cost will be determined by the size of the cartridge, which is also known as the square footage. 2.Sand Pool Filters A sand pool filter is basically a globe or spherical-shaped device that captures debris as it passes through sand. These are best for pools that aren't used very often and for pool owners who do a great job with chemical maintenance. Sand Pool Filters can capture debris in the range of 20-40 microns. 3. DE Pool Filters DE (diatomaceous earth) pool filters are a little different from the other two filters. This filter uses diatomaceous earth as media to capture dirt, debris and particles in pools. This is done with a DE powder that is used to coat the filter grids. The water then passes through this material which filters out what it catches and then releases clean filtered water back into your pool. DE pool filters can capture debris in the range of 2 - 5 microns. What are the Pros and Cons of Each Type of Pool Filter? Pros and Cons of the Cartridge Pool Filter Advantages Easy installation.The cartridges are easy to maintain. You simply spray it out from time to time as needed and put it back in. No big deal.The cost isn't that bad either considering you only need to replace them every year or so, but keep in mind this depends on the make and model that you buy. Something else to consider is whether you're replacing the entire cartridge or just the element. Disadvantages If your pool has the tendency to turn green or "cloudy", cartridge filters clog up pretty quickly and will need to be will need to be rinsed every few hours or so until the water clears up.This is all the more reason why it's important to maintain your pool on a regular basis. Pros and Cons of the Sand Pool Filter Advantages Easy to clean. You simply backwash them from time to time. (run water through it in reverse.)Requires little maintenanceThese are typically the most affordable. Disadvantages While they are easy to backwash, they do need to be backwashed often (only remove particles 20-40 microns)they can be bulkyif a green or cloudy pool is a problem, these filters can take forever to clear up the water.Higher costs on chemicals.Backwashing too much can throw off the balance of your pool. Pros and Cons of a DE Filter Advantages They can remove debris from 2-5 microns. In other words, they remove EVERYTHING!Unmatched in clearing up "cloudy" or "green" pools. Disadvantages They can be pretty high maintenance. The filter grids have to be replaced every couple of years and this can be quite expensive. Prices generally run about $300 for a full replacement. DIY can be a lot cheaper and I would recommend you consider this route since it's not difficult to do.The filter must be taken apart every 6-12 months. This is the part that backwashing does not clean.When grids are old, it can make holes. The DE powder can come back into the pool. A new filter will cost more than a cartridge filter. Conclusion I would recommend a cartridge filter for the average homeowner because of the ease of maintenance, but you simply can't beat the sparkling clean water that you get with a DE pool filter. Your decision really comes down to exactly what your needs are and what kind of budget you have to work with.

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