Types of Pool Filters
Every pool owner understands the importance of filtration. Having a high-quality working filter is crucial for a clean and safe swimming environment. It traps debris, dust particles, and other impurities, allowing only clean and filtered water to enter your pool.
There are three types of pool filters to choose from, Cartridge, Sand, and D.E. filters. The filter you choose will depend on the price, maintenance needs, pool usage, and location-based factors.
Cartridge filters
In recent times, cartridge filters have become a popular choice for small residential and above ground pools as they require minimum maintenance and offer a longer cleaning cycle. They are taller, narrower, and use a paper-type cartridge as the filter medium that lasts 3-5 years. The cartridge filter traps particles as small as 5 to 10 microns in size. The filters come with an indicator gauge that lets you know when they are dirty. For cleaning, you need to disassemble the cartridge and rinse the filter with a garden hose. Cartridge filters are environment-friendly and energy-efficient as they use lower pump pressure. They do not require backwashing, which prevents water waste, hence cutting your water bills.
Sand filters
Sand filters are the most popular and commonly used filters as they are easy to use and maintain. They are ideal for heavily used pools as they can run 24/7. These filters consist of a tank-like design and use specially graded sand as the filter medium. When the water runs through this system, starting from the top, dirt and debris are trapped within the grains of sand. Clean water flows out into the pool through the bottom of the filter. Sand filters can capture fine dirt particles and debris that are 20-40 microns in size. It requires regular backwashing to remove the dirt collected over time. The sand in the filter needs to be replaced every five to seven years.
D.E. filters (Diatomaceous Earth)
D.E. filters offer the most effective filtration and provide the cleanest water for your pool, but are more expensive to buy and maintain. They use diatomaceous earth as the filter medium that can trap particles up to 3 microns. D.E. is finer than sand and highly porous, making it an excellent filter media. For cleaning, it requires backwashing, followed by the addition of D.E. through the skimmer. This filter is best for pools where the backyards have lots of trees and plants.
Importance of Pool Filters
A water filter works as a barrier that traps contaminants within the filter to push clean water back into the swimming pool. A swimming pool filter maintains hygiene levels and keeps the pool water clean for swimming. Without it, dirt, leaves, and other debris will make their way into the water, which may contaminate the water causing water-borne health problems in the pool users. It also prevents bacterial and algae growth in the water. Also, when you use a pool filter, it keeps the water in motion, preventing mosquito breeding. Having a pool filter is vital to keep you and your family safe.
A professional pool service company can recommend the correct filter size for your pool and advise you on how to clean and maintain the filter. They will let you know how many hours you need to run the filter to keep the pool water clean. They can also take over your maintenance, leaving you free to enjoy your pool.
If you need pool maintenance for your Phoenix, Arizona pool or spa, call us here at Serenity Pools. Our services include new installation set-up, professional maintenance of pools and spas, water features, and fountains. Call today! 480-370-0579.
