Understanding Pool Filters: Cartridge, Sand, or D.E.
Compare the pros, cons, and maintenance requirements of Cartridge, Sand, and D.E. pool filters.
Your pump circulates the water, but the filter is what actually keeps it clean. There are three main types of pool filters: Sand, Cartridge, and D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth). The right choice depends on your local water restrictions, maintenance preferences, and how clean you want your water to be.
Filtration Quality (Micron Rating)
Filter performance is measured by the smallest particle size it can capture, measured in microns (a grain of salt is about 100 microns). A lower micron rating means finer filtration.
- Sand Filters: 20 to 40 microns.
- Cartridge Filters: 10 to 20 microns.
- D.E. Filters: 2 to 5 microns (the clearest water).
Comparing the Three Types
1. Sand Filters
Pros: Very easy to maintain, lowest initial cost, sand lasts 5-7 years. Cons: Least effective filtration, requires backwashing (which wastes water and chemicals).
2. Cartridge Filters
Pros: Excellent filtration, no backwashing required (saves water), very low flow resistance (pairs perfectly with variable speed pumps). Cons: Cartridges must be manually removed and hosed off every 3-6 months, replacement cartridges can be expensive.
3. D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters
Pros: Unmatched water clarity, traps the finest particles. Cons: Most expensive, requires backwashing, requires adding D.E. powder after every backwash, most labor-intensive to clean.