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How to Compare Pool Filters

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    • 1). Determine the type of filtration system to use. There are three types to choose from: DE (diatomaceous earth), sand or cartridge filters. DE filters are known to take out the tiniest of particles (2 to 5 microns) from a pool's water. Sand filters (20 to 100 microns) and cartridge filters (25 to 100 microns) also do a stellar job in removing pool water dirt.

    • 2). Consider the maintenance schedule. Cartridge filters are the easiest to maintain. When the cartridge gets dirty, all you have to do is open the filter, remove the cartridge, hose it off and replace it back into the system. Sand filters require backwashing (running the filter in reverse) every few weeks to remove the accumulated dirt and DE filters require backwashing or regenerating (discarding the old DE and replacing with new) depending on the condition of the water. The frequency of the cleaning/backwashing schedule depends on how much dirt is in the pool.

    • 3). Compare the cost to purchase each system. In descending order, DE filters are usually the most expensive, then comes a sand-filtration system and the least expensive is the cartridge system. If you want to quickly get a pool filtration system up and running with the least amount of upfront cost, a cartridge system will work just fine.

    • 4). Evaluate the long-term costs to operate the filter. While the cartridge filter is the cheapest to purchase, it may be the most expensive to operate in the long run. It is recommended that the cartridge be replaced every other year. The cost to replace the cartridge can range anywhere from $40 to $100 depending on the cartridge. Sand filters can use the same sand for five years and DE filters require replacement DE from time to time. The cost of replacing the DE is a fraction of the cost of a new cartridge filter (a large 15 lb. bag of DE can last an entire season and cost less than $20).

    • 5). Review the size of the pool. Cartridge filters work well on small above-ground pools, but are not recommended for large above-ground or in-ground pools. Sand and DE filters work well on large and small pools both above-ground and in-ground.

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