Pools are a great backyard amenity but can be challenging to keep clean, especially during the months where they are less frequently used. Pool filters are an easy way to keep your pool clean year-round, helping to remove debris and other contaminants. Three of the most common types of filters are sand filters, cartridge filters and DE filters, and each have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to the cleaning and upkeep of your pool.
At Discounted Pool Supplier, we have over 22 years of experience providing pool owners with outstanding service and a large selection of pool products, and we stock a number of different filters for any budget. Here are some easy ways to choose which type of pool filter will work best for you.
Sand Filters
Sand filters are some of the most affordable types of filters on the market and are great for those with a tighter budget. As sand filters are less likely to clog than many other types, they are also a compelling option for owners with large pools. These filters work by pushing pool water through a bed of sand, which catches particles like dirt and other contaminants, which are removed from the water as it cycles through. Over time, this sand can become clogged and requires backwashing to remove trapped particles. Depending on use, you might only need to backwash every few weeks, and one of the main draws of this type of filter is how low-maintenance they can be. Care should be taken with smaller types of particles, as sand filters are often not as effective as cartridge or DE filters at removing fine contaminants like pollen.
A sand filter like the Pentair 140264- Triton II TR60 Sand Filter is a great choice for owners looking for a durable and easy-to-use filtration system. A UV-resistant, fiberglass-enforced tank coupled with cutting-edge internal design will quickly and effectively filter fine contaminants, ensuring maximum filtration year-round.
Cartridge Filters
Like sand filters, cartridge filters are easy to maintain and great for owners with smaller pools or for those who don’t need extremely powerful filtration systems. Cartridge filters are also more environmentally friendly and cost-effective as they do not require the backwashing of a sand filter, saving you time and energy. While they tend to be a little more expensive than sand filters, they are better at filtering small contaminants, and they alleviate the concern of wasting water. While these filters do need to be cleaned every few weeks and replaced every few years depending on use, they are great at removing smaller particles than sand while still being easy to use.
Our Pentair 160318- Clean & Clear 200 Sq. Ft. Cartridge Filter is manufactured from a corrosion-resistant, fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene tank, affording unparalleled durability and reliability. This system utilizes a coreless cartridge for effortless cleaning and offers the power of a professional clean at a very affordable price. If your pool is not overly large, cartridge filters are often the best choice as they are cost-effective and very low maintenance.
DE Filters
DE Filters, or Diatomaceous Earth Filters, offer some of the most powerful filtration available, and for owners who require a superior cleaning, DE filters are a compelling choice. While they offer unparalleled control and can filter even the smallest particles, DE systems are often expensive and maintenance intensive. These filters work by passing water through grids coated in diatomaceous earth, which is essentially fossilized algae. While utilizing a method similar to sand filters, DE filters are significantly more effective at removing debris.
The downside of DE filters is that they are often costly and require regular cleaning and top-ups, as while as annual disassembly to extensively clean all components. Diatomaceous earth is expensive, and it can also be hazardous to handle, so care and protective gear are required to ensure you are not breathing it in.
If you want your pool to sparkle like never before, investing in a DE filter can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your pool. A DE filter like the Pentair 180009- FNS Plus 60 Sq Ft DE Filter offers some of the most effective filtration on the market today.
Depending on your budget and the needs of your pool, sand, cartridge and DE filters can all make a huge difference in ensuring you have a clean and beautiful pool to enjoy all year long.
Why choose us?
Pools are a great backyard feature that, when properly cared for, can last for years to come. With over 22 years of experience in the industry, we are your one-stop shop for name-brand pool equipment at the best price around. Shop our supply and contact us with any questions so you can be sure your outdoor oasis is one everyone can enjoy.
