Pool Filter FAQ
Filter choices vary by region. Here are the pros and cons of the 3 most common types of pool filters.Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Diamaceous earth is one of the stronger filters, filtering debris as small as 5 microns. It is a naturally occurring soft, chalk-like sedimentary rock it is fine white to off-white powder. Diatomaceous earth consists of fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. We have found it mostly in older pools or commercial pools such as community pools and hotels. It is a very effective means to filter your water, although your equipment will run at higher pressure and some flow can be lost.
Maintenance consists of backwashing the filter using the pools system and adding new DE material. Cleaning needs depend on the amount of usage of the pool and is gaged by the pressure of the system.
Sand Filters
Water flows through a sand bed and out through pipes on the bottom. Dirty water comes to the top and the clean water exits the bottom. With use the sand becomes clogged with debris and oil. When the pressure of the system goes up past it's normal operating range it is time to backwash the filter using the backwash valve. It is a manual process usually done every few weeks. Replacement sand is inexpensive.
Cartridge Filters
Use of cartridge filters is common in pools in our area, they are inexpensive to replace and easy to maintain. Water passes through the filter material and debris is trapped. They have more of an area than sand. There are different materials used for the cartridge filter, the least expensive type does need to be replaced more often than the more expensive cartridges, which can last up to five years. With anything, the more you take care of it the longer it will last. Periodic cleaning of the filters by removing them and hosing them off, and if needed a light acid dip adds to the life. If the bands are bent or broken the cartridge's should be replaced. When the system pressure goes up, normal is between 10 and 20 psi although this varies between systems.
