The filter is perhaps the most essential piece of equipment to the operation of a swimming pool. This system has the important job of keeping the water free of debris which would otherwise accumulate and encourage growth of algae and bacteria that may be harmful. There are several types of pool filtration systems for both inground and above-ground pools which each offer various advantages.
The basic function of a filter, regardless of its design, is to rid the water of impurities so it stays clear and does not pose a threat to the health of the swimmers. All filter types operate on the principle of using a barrier of some sort to physically remove debris from the water. These different models differ from each other in price, upkeep, and in the advantages they provide.
Together, the filter and pump work to keep the water clean and clear. The pump forces water into the filter where the impurities are removed, then it returns the clean water back into circulation the pool. A high-quality filtration system will last for many years and can help keep the time and money spent on maintenance and operation down. There are three types of filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth or DE filters, all of which can be used with both inground and above-ground pools.
Sand filters are the most common type. Water is filtered through a sand bed inside the filter which traps debris with a size of 20 microns. They are easily cleaned by simply running water through them in the opposite direction, and the sand can be used for several years before it will need to be replaced. Affordable and easy to operate, they are a popular choice with many who own pools.
Also scoring high in terms of low maintenance, ease of use, and cost, is the cartridge filter. A replaceable cartridge element is responsible for filtering out particles as tiny as 10 to 15 microns in size. They have the advantage of being reasonably priced, and can simply be cleaned out with a garden hose, or using a filter cartridge cleaner. They must be replaced every swimming season in most cases.
The diatomaceous earth or DE filter offers the ultimate in water clarity and purification, as it has been designed to filter out the most minute particles which are just 3 to 5 microns. Inside the filter is a powdered substrate made from DE, which is a naturally-occurring sedimentary rock with a porous nature that lends itself well to filtration. More work is required to maintain them and they may cost somewhat more, but the speed of operation and efficiency compensates for this.
Whichever type of filter one chooses, it's always best to select a model which is larger than the minimum required for the pool's size. This will cut down on the time needed to spend cleaning the filter. Selecting a system with the lowest amount of pumping to achieve the flow rate is also wise, as this will help reduce operating costs.
Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference. Users who greatly value having ultra-clear water, will be best served with a DE filter, while those who are more concerned with ease of use, will likely prefer a cartridge or sand filter for its relatively simple maintenance.
The basic function of a filter, regardless of its design, is to rid the water of impurities so it stays clear and does not pose a threat to the health of the swimmers. All filter types operate on the principle of using a barrier of some sort to physically remove debris from the water. These different models differ from each other in price, upkeep, and in the advantages they provide.
Together, the filter and pump work to keep the water clean and clear. The pump forces water into the filter where the impurities are removed, then it returns the clean water back into circulation the pool. A high-quality filtration system will last for many years and can help keep the time and money spent on maintenance and operation down. There are three types of filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth or DE filters, all of which can be used with both inground and above-ground pools.
Sand filters are the most common type. Water is filtered through a sand bed inside the filter which traps debris with a size of 20 microns. They are easily cleaned by simply running water through them in the opposite direction, and the sand can be used for several years before it will need to be replaced. Affordable and easy to operate, they are a popular choice with many who own pools.
Also scoring high in terms of low maintenance, ease of use, and cost, is the cartridge filter. A replaceable cartridge element is responsible for filtering out particles as tiny as 10 to 15 microns in size. They have the advantage of being reasonably priced, and can simply be cleaned out with a garden hose, or using a filter cartridge cleaner. They must be replaced every swimming season in most cases.
The diatomaceous earth or DE filter offers the ultimate in water clarity and purification, as it has been designed to filter out the most minute particles which are just 3 to 5 microns. Inside the filter is a powdered substrate made from DE, which is a naturally-occurring sedimentary rock with a porous nature that lends itself well to filtration. More work is required to maintain them and they may cost somewhat more, but the speed of operation and efficiency compensates for this.
Whichever type of filter one chooses, it's always best to select a model which is larger than the minimum required for the pool's size. This will cut down on the time needed to spend cleaning the filter. Selecting a system with the lowest amount of pumping to achieve the flow rate is also wise, as this will help reduce operating costs.
Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference. Users who greatly value having ultra-clear water, will be best served with a DE filter, while those who are more concerned with ease of use, will likely prefer a cartridge or sand filter for its relatively simple maintenance.
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