Thursday, February 24, 2011

What Type of Filter Should I Use For My Pool?















There are three basic types of pool filters, each has its pros and cons. The three basic types are sand, DE (diatomaceous earth) and cartridge filters. Each pool is different and has different requirements for filtration. A pool that is used frequently, like a community or apartment pool, may require a more advanced filtration system than a private pool. Each filter is rated in microns. Microns are measurement of how fine the filtration system is.

Good:
First, the sand filter is rated at an efficiency of 40 microns and must be cleaned every week. A sand filter is recommended for home and apartment or community pools. The pros for this filter are that it is easy to backwash, the filter media is inexpensive and it requires very little maintenance. The cons for the sand filter are that it provides the poorest level of filtration and it wastes water with the required weekly backwash.

Better:
Next, the cartridge filtration system is rated at 10 microns. The pros of this type of filtration system are that it is easy to maintain and repair. However, this type of system is not recommended for home pools only. The cons of this type of filter are, that it is not as easily cleaned as other types of filters and the replacement cartridges can be on the expensive side.

Best:
Last, the Diatomaceous Earth or DE filter provides the best a filtration efficiency level of all of the filters. The pros of this type of filter are that it provides the best level of filtration but can also be the most costly to repair. Also, the backwash method can be a little tricky and complicated. You may want to have a pool care professional show you how to use the system. If you are seeking the highest level of filtration this is the way to go.

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