Pool Filter Systems

Types of Pool Filter Systems

There are 3 main types of above ground pool filter systems that one should be aware of when shopping for swimming pool equipment: (1) Sand, (2) Cartridge and (3) Diatomaceous Earth (DE). You should know that an above ground pool could be properly maintained with any one of these systems.

Sand Filter System

A sand filter consists of a hollow tank on a stand that is filled with pool filter sand. The water is pushed through the bed of sand and removed through a set of lateral tubes at the bottom. While the water is traveling through the sand, fine debris and particles become trapped within the grains of sand clarifying your pool water. Sand filters remove particles as small as 20 microns. The filter sand can last 5-10 years between changes giving you a very economical filtration system.

Cartridge Filter System

Cartridge filters consist of a simple 2-piece tank (lid & bottom) with a cartridge inside of that tank. The cartridge is very similar to the air filters you can find in your car. Water is pushed into the tank from your pump and flows through the cartridge membrane. Particles and debris are trapped in the fabric and clean water returns back into the pool. You can expect the cartridge to filter down to about 10 microns.

D.E. Filter Systems

D.E. filter systems use diatomaceous earth powder to filter your pool water. The powder that you add to the skimmer coats the grids or tubes that are inside the tank and particles and debris become trapped in the powder. D.E. filters offer superior water clarity filtering down to 5 microns, because they pick up such small particles they will lose pressure faster than other types of filters and require more maintenance than sand or cartridge above ground pool filter systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of pool filter systems does The Pool Factory offer?

The Pool Factory offers a wide range of filter systems, including Sand, Cartridge, and D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) filters for both above-ground and in-ground pools. Each type caters to different preferences and pool maintenance needs.

How do I choose between Sand, D.E., and Cartridge filter systems for my above-ground pool?

To choose the right system, consider factors like filtration efficiency, maintenance requirements, and your pool size. The collection allows you to filter by pool type (above-ground or In-ground) and filter media type (Sand, Cartridge, or D.E.) to help you make an informed decision.

Can I find filtration systems for specific pool sizes in this collection?

Absolutely! Our collection includes filtration systems suitable for various pool sizes. Whether you have a smaller pool or a larger pool, you can find options that match your pool's needs.

How do I properly operate and maintain a Sand, Cartridge, or D.E. filtration system?

Our collection features helpful articles written by pool experts, including guides on operating and maintaining each type of filter system. These articles offer valuable tips to ensure your system operates efficiently.

How often should I clean or replace the filter media in my pool?

The frequency of cleaning or replacing filter media depends on the type of system and usage. The helpful articles in the collection provide guidelines on maintaining Sand, Cartridge, and D.E. filtration systems for optimal performance.