Pool Filter Systems

The Pool Factory stocks a huge variety of name brand Sand, Cartridge and D.E. pool filters for all pool sizes.
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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.

Questions & Answers
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Popular Questions

4 months ago
4 months ago
To maintain optimal water quality, you should run your filter 8-12 hours per day under normal conditions. During periods of extreme heat or heavy pool usage, extending the filtration time may be necessary to ensure proper circulation and cleanliness, preventing potential water quality issues.
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4 months ago
4 months ago
A dedicated 20 amp circuit would be sufficient to run your above ground filter system efficiently. The manufacturer advises plugging the pump's power cord directly into a standard GFCI outdoor receptacle for safety and efficiency. All our above ground pool pumps come equipped with a standard 3-prong 110-volt plug end.

It's also essential to consult your township for local electrical codes, as they vary by location, to ensure compliance and safety. Always… See full answer »
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4 months ago
4 months ago
Cartridge filters utilize a pleated fabric cartridge to trap dirt and debris, offering minimal maintenance while needing replacement every few years. They are effortlessly cleaned with a standard garden hose, and backwashing isn't necessary, preserving water and chemicals.

Sand filters, employing a bed of specially graded sand, are easy to maintain but less efficient at capturing small debris.
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18 days ago
18 days ago
Pump speed is a critical consideration for energy efficiency and water flow control in a pool filter system. Single-speed pumps operate at one constant speed, while two-speed pumps, like those in the AquaPro 120, offer flexibility by providing both high and low-speed settings. Two-speed pumps can save energy and reduce noise during low-demand periods, making them a popular choice for many pool owners. When selecting pump speed, consider the balance between operational cost and performance. With multiple options available, you can choose the pump speed that suits your lifestyle.
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4 months ago
4 months ago
Yes, all of the Filter Systems that we carry are compatible for use with Freshwater or Saltwater Swimming Pools. To run a saltwater pool, you'll need both a saltwater system and a filter system. The saltwater system, also known as a chlorine generator, will sanitize your pool water, ensuring it's safe and clean, while the filter system will effectively remove debris and impurities from your pool water, maintaining clarity and hygiene.
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4 months ago
4 months ago
Yes, we carry replacement parts for all the filter systems that we sell. You can view all filter system replacement parts by clicking the link below. You can also drill down by “Model Name” to see strictly parts for your filter system specifically by clicking the “Filters” tab:
Filter System Replacement Parts
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18 days ago
18 days ago
When choosing a pool filter system, the filter type is crucial because it determines the efficiency and maintenance of your pool's filtration. Cartridge filters, like those in the AquaPro 190, are known for their ability to filter down to 20 microns, offering superior water clarity compared to sand filters, which typically filter down to 50 microns. Sand filters, such as the Hayward S230T, are valued for their low maintenance and long-lasting filter media. Each type has its benefits, and the choice depends on your preference for water clarity versus maintenance frequency. A variety of options is available, allowing you to select the filter type that best fits your needs.
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