DE, Sand or Cartridge Swimming Pool Filters - Which One Should I Choose?

Sand, Cartridge or DE? Which filter type is right for my pool? With just a little research you can choose the correct filter system for your swimming pool and spa.

There are three different styles of swimming pool filters, DE, cartridge and sand. Let's review the differences of each type of filter

The first type of filter is a SAND FILTER, it uses fine filter sand inside a vessel or tank to collect and trap dirt and debris from a swimming pool. The pool water is sent to the filter from the pool pump to the top of the tank and a fitting inside the vessel called the distributor "rains" the water down and through the sand. As the water migrates down through the bed of sand the pool water is collected by the laterals inside the bottom of tank and returned to the pool filtered and clean. The sand inside the filter can last for many years if the filter is "backwashed". What is backwashing? Backwashing is when the water flow inside the filter is reversed (using the selector valve outside the filter) and the dirty water and debris are flushed out through the waste line of the pool system. During backwashing, some sand will be lost each time and the water level of the pool will be lowered. When it is time to replace the sand, the old sand will need to be removed, either by hand or tool and the filter will need to be replenished with new fresh filter media.

The second type of filter is a CARTRIDGE FILTER, it uses a replaceable cartridge element to capture dirt and debris from a pool and or spa. The cartridge filter element is houised inside the tank, the upper lid is normally held in place by a clamp or knob which has been manufactured with remove ability in mind. When the cartridge has collected enough dirt and debris the cartridge is removed, hosed off, dirt removed and the element is replaced back into the tank. The cartridge will last for many years if it is cleaned on a regular basis and not allowed to become over filled. Cartridge filters when cleaned do not require backwashing; the pool water level is unaffected during cleaning. Cartridge filters are a perfect choice for spas due to this fact and the fact of easy of cleaning.

The third type of filter is a DE FILTER or Diatomaceous Earth unit. Inside this type of filter are grids which hold a thin layer of DE. As the pool water is sent to the tank from the pool pump it passes through these grids, covered with DE and the DE captures the dirt and debris for removal. DE filters just like sand filters can also be "backwashed" to remove the dirt from inside the filter. A DE filter just like a sand filter when it is backwashed some DE power will be lost and the level of the pool will be lowered. Eventually the filter will need to be disassembled, the old DE removed and fresh diatomaceous earth replaced inside the filter. While the DE filter tank is open for service, fresh DE can be added directly to the tank.

After looking at all three types, which type is the best? All three types offer excellent filtering capabilities and if maintained in top working order, all three can and will keep your swimming pool and or spa clear and crystal blue. The filter is a key part of your pool system, if it does not function correctly expect to spend extra time and effort maintaining your backyard investment, maintain it on a regular basis and enjoy your backyard paradise each and every day.

Article Tags: Swimming Pool Filters, Swimming Pool, Pool Filters, Pool Water