SWIMMING POOL FILTERS – TYPES AND BENEFITS

There is nothing quite as refreshing as jumping into the pool on a hot summer day; crystal clear water cools and rejuvenates. Now imagine jumping into a pool full of cloudy water, full of dirt and debris. The experience is not quite the same, is it? Fortunately, the former, idyllic pool is now standard thanks to swimming pool filters! Pool filters remove dirt and debris and are the most important part of keeping your pool clean. Below you will learn about pool filters, their many variations and how to choose the best filter for your pool.

WHAT IS A POOL FILTER?

A pool filter is part of a pool filtration system that removes dirt and debris from the water. The pump pumps water into the filter, the filter removes dirt and debris, and then the clean water returns to the pool through return jets on the pool walls. Pool filters not only keep your water clean and clear, but also increase the effectiveness of chlorine in killing bacteria and promote a healthy pool environment.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF POOL FILTERS

The main types of pool filters are sand, in ground pool filters, type A pool filters and type B pool filters.

1. Sand filters

Sand filters involve a tank full of sand that traps debris as the water seeps through. While sand appears smooth to the naked eye, when viewed under a microscope each grain has jagged, rough edges that trap dirt. Dirt and debris remain trapped in the sand and clean water travels to the bottom of the tank and returns to the pool. Sand filters capture impurities in the range of 20 to 40 microns. A micron is one millionth of a meter. To put their tiny size into perspective, a strand of human hair is about 70 microns wide! Debris between 20 and 40 microns are really small, but sand filters are the least effective compared to other pool filters because cartridge and DE filters can capture even smaller particles.

Over time, particles trapped in the sand accumulate and reduce the effectiveness of the filter. The deposit prevents the proper flow of water and increases the pressure in the tank. A pressure gauge on the side of the filter alerts you to pressure changes and shows when it’s time for maintenance. Plus for sand filters, maintenance is simple and easy! All you have to do is backwash the filter, which means running the water in the opposite direction to flush out the dirt. If more frequent backwashing is required, you should replace the sand, but this is only necessary every 5-7 years. Keep in mind that if you flush the filter frequently, you may disturb the chemistry and water level of the pool. You may need to rebalance the chemicals and refill the pool.

Advantages of sand filters:

• • Least expensive
• • Low maintenance
• • Direct service
• • Available for any pool size

Disadvantages of sand filters:

• • The least effective filtration
• • Backwashing can waste water
• • Back flushing can change the chemical balance of the pool

2. In-ground pool filters

In-ground pools are usually larger than above-ground pools, and their filters are designed to handle higher flows and larger volumes of water. Above-ground pool filters are generally smaller versions of in-ground filters. Also in ground, pool filters are placed close to your home or as close to the electrical panel as possible, while above ground pool filters are placed below the water level next to the pool. Because in-ground pool filters have to deal with more piping and gravity, their filtration systems have to work a little harder and may require more skimmers, nozzles, and suction lines than above-ground systems.

3. Cartridge Pool Filter

Cartridge filters can filter out more dirt and smaller dirt particles than a sand filter, but the higher purchase price makes cartridge filters less popular than sand filters.

How does Cartridge Pool Filter work?

Cartridge filter systems work by forcing water into a tank. The skimmer collects larger debris and the secondary basket collects smaller particles. Finally, the water flows through polyester filters, which capture any remaining impurities.

Advantages of Cartridge Pool Filter:

• • Easy to maintain
• • It requires less energy to operate than some other filtration systems
• • Removes more dirt and smaller particles than sand filter systems
• • Back flushing can change the chemical balance of the pool

Disadvantages of Cartridge Pool Filter:

• • The cost of purchasing filters can be high
• • Frequent cleaning is necessary

4. Diatomaceous earth (DE) Pool Filter

DE pool filter is formed by the petrified remains of aquatic organisms. DE naturally absorbs impurities in the water and can filter even small (microscopic) particles from the water. The diatomaceous earth is dissolved in water and passes through a pipe into a grid covered with a polyester fabric that captures the diatomaceous earth. As the water passes through the fabric and diatomaceous earth, the DE becomes a filter.

Advantages of DE Pool:

• • Removes impurities of 2-3 microns in size
• • With proper care, DE grids have a long service life

Disadvantages of DE Pool:

• • Diatomaceous earth must be added to the filter after each backwash, which increases costs
• • The cost to purchase can be the highest of any type of pool filter
• • DE inhaled may be a carcinogen
• • Installation of a diatomaceous earth filter may require the installation of additional piping
• • Grids must be disassembled and cleaned once a year
• • DE filters require the most maintenance
• • Cleaning can be difficult as grids that tear during cleaning must be replaced

WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF POOL FILTER?

The best pool filter is the one that best suits the needs of your pool and your personal preferences. When selecting a filter, consider filtration capability, initial cost, ease of operation and maintenance routines, and maintenance costs. Learning about the different types of filters will help you choose the best option for you and your pool! Whichever type of filter you choose, choose the largest size suitable for your pool. Large filters require less maintenance and clear bad water conditions much faster than smaller filters. Filtrinov Pool Filter is a proven pool filter brand that can provide safe and reliable protection for your pool. Filtrinov pool filters are made with reinforced center cores, premium filter media and antimicrobial tips that work together to provide advanced protection and ensure clean, contaminant-free pool water. They are also considered as the most compact solution for all your pool requirements which saves space since it doesn’t require a separate filter maintenance room.

NEED A FILTERS FOR YOUR POOL? CONTACT BLUE STORM INTERNATIONAL

Most homeowners do not know the difference between the different types of pool filters or which filter would be best for their home. Fortunately, you have the best swimming pool equipment supplier on your side that can help. Blue storm International has been serving Muscat for years and we have the experience and expertise to help you choose the right product. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to discuss pool filtration systems that can help.