Pool Sand and Cartridge Filters

So, you're ready to upgrade your lifestyle with a pool, spa, or swim spa. Now, it's time to choose the best filtration type. The filter and pump are key to keeping your pool water clean. They eliminate debris, ensuring your pool is always ready for a swim. For your pool, a cartridge filter or a sand filter are great choices. Whether you're eyeing a fibreglass or concrete pool, both filters work well.

But, how do you know which one suits your pool the best? What are the key differences between these two filtration systems, and how can you determine which one will best suit your needs? We're diving deep into the world of filters to guide you in making the right choice.

Understanding Pool Filtration: Cartridge vs. Sand Filters

If you want a clean pool with very little floating debris and bacteria, go for a cartridge filter. It's better at capturing small debris, 10-20 microns, compared to sand filters at 20-40 microns. Plus, cartridge filters save up to 92% water because they don't need backwashing.

Efficiency and Performance

Glass media in sand filters helps them catch finer dirt, so you have a cleaner pool. This method also uses less water when you clean the filter. Cartridge filters are more energy-efficient as they don't slow down water flow like sand filters do. This means your pump works less and lasts longer.

Maintenance Considerations

Maintaining a cartridge filter is easy. Just take out the cartridge, rinse it with a garden hose, and put it back. Sand filters need more care. It's best to backwash them after you vacuum your pool every week. This step removes the dirt the vacuum might have missed.

Choosing the Right Pool Filter

Choosing the best pool filter depends on a few important things. You need to think about cost, size, and how easy it is to install. Sand filters are the least expensive. They are cheaper to buy than cartridge filters. But, you'll have other costs, like for setting them up and running them efficiently.

Cost Factors

The cost of getting new media, like sand or glass, for a filter is less than new cartridges. Cartridges should be changed every 1-3 years, depending on how much your pool is used. On the other hand, sand or glass media can wait longer, 4-6 years before changing. This could save you money in the long run with a sand filter.

Size and Installation Requirements

It’s vital to match the right filter with the right pump, no matter the type. Sand, cartridge, or DE, each filter needs a specific pump size to work well. If you pick the wrong size, it can cause your pool's water to not move right. This could make your filtration system work badly.

Pool filter Maintenance and Care

Keeping your pool's filter system in top shape is key to a clean pool all year. Whether you use a sand, cartridge, or DE filter, care and maintenance are key.

Cleaning Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters are easy to use and save water. For top performance, rinse the cartridge with a garden hose. However, don't use a pressure washer since it can harm the filter.

Backwashing Sand Filters

Sand filters are common in Australia and need weekly maintenance. After vacuuming, backwash the filter to remove dirt and debris. Backwash when the pressure is 8-10 psi higher than normal.

Filter Media Replacement

Cartridge filters last 1-3 years but sand or glass media can go 4-6 years. Replacing sand or glass is cheaper than new cartridges. If the water isn't clear, try cleaning or replacing the media first.