Above Ground Pool Filters Will Keep Your Pool Clean So You Don't Have To!

Above ground pool filters can be found in many different places and come in a variety of types.

Above ground pools are becoming quite popular these days, and are relatively cheaper and easier to install when compared to in ground pools.

There are three filter types to choose from :

1)Above Ground Sand Filters

The sand filter is the most reliable filter, but is also the least effective method of filtering pool water when you look at the actual particle size of the dirt filtered out.

It works by feeding the pool water through the sand in the filter.

Dirt and debris in the water gets stuck in the sand, and only clean water makes it to the exit point and back into the pool.

Cleaning the filter is done through 'backwashing' the process, and therefore dumping the dirty water (which can result in water loss.)

However, refilling the sand (if needed) is cheap, inexpensive and very convenient.

2)Above Ground Cartridge Filters

The cartridge filter uses a paper like filter material to get rid of dirt and debris in the water.

Water passes through this material and only dirt remains.

There are two types of cartridges you can use in the cartridge filter : inexpensive cartridges that need to be very regularly replaced, or expensive cartridges that can last for (on average) five years.

The cartridge filter has a greater filter area (starting at 100 sqft, but most are sold at a size of 300 sqft.)

You also find that, on a particle filter basis, cartridge filters have a greater effectivity than sand filters in filtering the water.

Cartridge filters basically sit in the middle of sand and the next filter (DE) in this regard.

3)Above Ground DE Filters

“DE” stands for “Diatomaceous Earth.” This is a powder like substance made from the fossilized exoskeletons of diatoms (an algae or plankton.)

The filter contains grids, which are coated with this DE substance.

Because of the nature of DE, the filtering process is incredibly effective in getting rid of even the tiniest particles of dirt in the water (as small as 3-5 microns.)

The only drawback is that the DE needs to recharged every time the filter is cleaned through a backwashing process.

Also, DE filters run at incredibly high pressures which could lead to flow loss and pool pump problems.

These are the different types of above ground pool filters.

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