The three primary types of swimming pool filters used in residential pools are Cartridge Filters, Diatomaceous Earth Filters (DE filters), and Sand Filters.
Cartridge Filters
Cartridge Pool Filters use pleated paper filter elements to filter out dirt and debris from the swimming pool water. Cartridge filters are the easiest of all of the filter types to maintain and are cleaned by simply removing the elements from the filter and spraying them off with high-pressure water. If maintained properly, newer filter cartridge elements should last from three to five years. Replacement filter cartridge prices can range from moderate to expensive, but are probably the most practical choice for residential swimming pools.
Diatomaceous Earth Filters (DE Filters)
Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filters, also known as DE Filters, use diatomaceous earth powder to filter out dirt and debris from the swimming pool water. The diatomaceous earth powder is pre-mixed with water and slowly added through the skimmer while the filter is on and sticks to the filter grids inside the filter to form the filter medium. DE filters are a little messier to maintain then cartridge filters. Similar to cartridge filters, high pressure water is used to remove the used DE powder from the filter grids and the dirty diatomaceous earth can get quite messy. DE filters are the most efficient at cleaning the water.
Sand Filters
Sand Pool Filters use silica sand to filter out dirt and debris from the swimming pool water. Sand pool filters are the least efficient at cleaning the water and require more maintenance than the cartridge filters. Although the sand only needs to be replaced every three to six years, sand pool filters need to be backwashed frequently in order to function efficiently.
In summary, all three of the filter types described above can be a good choice depending on the swimming pool and individual circumstances. Cartridge filters are probably the most practical choice when buying a new swimming pool filter because of their ease of maintenance. The newer cartridge swimming pool filters can be purchased in large enough sizes that minimize cleaning to once or twice a year depending on the size of the swimming pool.
Dave LeBeau is a professional swimming pool technician sharing his experience and knowledge on the topic of swimming pool maintenance.
