The filter is perhaps the most essential piece of equipment to the operation of a swimming pool. This system has the important job of keeping the water free of debris which would otherwise accumulate and encourage growth of algae and bacteria that may be harmful. There are several types of pool filtration systems for both inground and above-ground pools which each offer various advantages.
The water in a swimming pool typically cycles through the filter several times every day. Although the techniques vary from one filter design to the next, they all basically operate by pumping the water through a barrier which traps particles of dirt and such, removing it from the swimming pool. They differ in terms of price, care and maintenance, and in the benefits they provide.
Collectively referred to as the "filtration system", the pump and filter work together in tandem to ensure a clean pool. Water is forced into the filter by the action of the pump, then it is cleansed, and released back into circulation. Quality filter systems can provide years of use, and if they operate efficiently, it can help cut down maintenance time and expenses. Three main types of filters are available for both above-ground and inground pools; diatomaceous earth (DE), sand, and cartridge filters.
Sand filters are the most common type. Water is filtered through a sand bed inside the filter which traps debris with a size of 20 microns. They are easily cleaned by simply running water through them in the opposite direction, and the sand can be used for several years before it will need to be replaced. Affordable and easy to operate, they are a popular choice with many who own pools.
Another affordable, low-maintenance alternative is the cartridge filter. The filtering element in this design consists of a removable cartridge which can remove particles as small as 10 to 15 microns. Economical, they have the added advantage of being easy to maintain by using a garden hose or a filter cartridge cleaner to clean them out. In general a new cartridge is needed for each swimming season.
The diatomaceous earth or DE filter offers the ultimate in water clarity and purification, as it has been designed to filter out the most minute particles which are just 3 to 5 microns. Inside the filter is a powdered substrate made from DE, which is a naturally-occurring sedimentary rock with a porous nature that lends itself well to filtration. More work is required to maintain them and they may cost somewhat more, but the speed of operation and efficiency compensates for this.
Whichever type of filter one chooses, it's always best to select a model which is larger than the minimum required for the pool's size. This will cut down on the time needed to spend cleaning the filter. Selecting a system with the lowest amount of pumping to achieve the flow rate is also wise, as this will help reduce operating costs.
Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference. Users who greatly value having ultra-clear water, will be best served with a DE filter, while those who are more concerned with ease of use, will likely prefer a cartridge or sand filter for its relatively simple maintenance.
The water in a swimming pool typically cycles through the filter several times every day. Although the techniques vary from one filter design to the next, they all basically operate by pumping the water through a barrier which traps particles of dirt and such, removing it from the swimming pool. They differ in terms of price, care and maintenance, and in the benefits they provide.
Collectively referred to as the "filtration system", the pump and filter work together in tandem to ensure a clean pool. Water is forced into the filter by the action of the pump, then it is cleansed, and released back into circulation. Quality filter systems can provide years of use, and if they operate efficiently, it can help cut down maintenance time and expenses. Three main types of filters are available for both above-ground and inground pools; diatomaceous earth (DE), sand, and cartridge filters.
Sand filters are the most common type. Water is filtered through a sand bed inside the filter which traps debris with a size of 20 microns. They are easily cleaned by simply running water through them in the opposite direction, and the sand can be used for several years before it will need to be replaced. Affordable and easy to operate, they are a popular choice with many who own pools.
Another affordable, low-maintenance alternative is the cartridge filter. The filtering element in this design consists of a removable cartridge which can remove particles as small as 10 to 15 microns. Economical, they have the added advantage of being easy to maintain by using a garden hose or a filter cartridge cleaner to clean them out. In general a new cartridge is needed for each swimming season.
The diatomaceous earth or DE filter offers the ultimate in water clarity and purification, as it has been designed to filter out the most minute particles which are just 3 to 5 microns. Inside the filter is a powdered substrate made from DE, which is a naturally-occurring sedimentary rock with a porous nature that lends itself well to filtration. More work is required to maintain them and they may cost somewhat more, but the speed of operation and efficiency compensates for this.
Whichever type of filter one chooses, it's always best to select a model which is larger than the minimum required for the pool's size. This will cut down on the time needed to spend cleaning the filter. Selecting a system with the lowest amount of pumping to achieve the flow rate is also wise, as this will help reduce operating costs.
Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference. Users who greatly value having ultra-clear water, will be best served with a DE filter, while those who are more concerned with ease of use, will likely prefer a cartridge or sand filter for its relatively simple maintenance.
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