Your Guide to Choosing the Right Pool Filtration System

Maintaining a pristine pool means you've got to have a pool filtration system that works hard—so you don’t have to.

Whether you're dealing with a faulty system, thinking about upgrading, or simply trying to plan ahead, you're in the right place. We'll break down the three most common pool filtration systems to help you find a unit that fits your budget and needs.

Why You Need a Pool Filter

While the filtration process varies depending on the type of filter you choose, they all serve the same purpose—trapping contaminants and debris. This is essential for maintaining a safe swimming environment.

A well-functioning pool filtration system:

• Captures visible dirt, debris, and bugs that fall into the pool
• Traps microscopic bacteria and algae spores—contaminants you cannot see with the naked eye
• Improves water clarity
• Circulates water, which helps with chemical distribution and even cleaning
• Prolongs the lifespan of equipment by preventing clogs and mineral buildup

Types of Pool Filtration Systems

Sand Filters

Many homeowners choose sand pool filtration systems because they are simple, efficient, and affordable.

These filters use a bed of specially graded sand inside a large tank. When water passes into the tank and through the sand, it traps debris and particles while allowing clean water to pass through.

Most sand filters are capable of trapping 20-40 micron-sized particles. To put that into perspective, consider that:

• A human hair is roughly 50-70 microns in diameter
• The human eye can spot particles that are about 40 microns

This is a long way of saying that a sand filter can remove most dust particles and pollen. However, it won’t filter very fine dust, bacteria, or viruses. This is, of course, why we use pool chemicals or automation systems to fill in the gap.

Pool Cartridge Filters

These units use a cylindrical cartridge made of pleated, paper-like material inside a tank. Here's how they work:

• Water flows through the cartridge
• The pleats trap dirt and debris
• Clean water is sent back to the pool
• No backwashing required!

Most cartridge filters are capable of filtering 10-20 micron-sized particles (more than sand filters).

You should know that you must clear your cartridge filter regularly to maintain efficiency. While not difficult, this process is slightly more hands-on than backwashing a sand filter.

Diatomaceous Earth Filters (DE)

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filters are a highly effective pool filtration system that uses a fine powder made from crushed fossilized algae (diatoms). These units work by coating a set of filter grids inside a tank with the DE powder. As pool water flows through the tank, it passes through this DE coating, which acts as an extremely fine sieve.

Two important facts about DE pool filters:

• They can filter contaminants and particles as small as 2-5 microns (much smaller than what sand or cartridge filters can).
• They require more maintenance than other filters. After every backwash, you must add power to recoat the grids. The tradeoff is that you achieve exceptionally clean pool water.

Don't Get in Deep Water with Dirty Filters. Contact Williams Water Co.!

Don’t let pool filter issues keep you from enjoying your swimming experience. Whether you need routine maintenance or replacement, we’ll optimize your filtration system to keep your pool water sparkling, clean, and healthy. Contact us today!