Choosing A Swimming Pool Filter

The choice of a swimming pool filter is essential to having a beautiful pool in which to swim.

The filter enables you to swim in clean, sparkling water since it removes the fine particles and dirt from the water.

There are several choices of pool filters on the market today, but we're going to take a look at the choices for an above ground swimming pool filter.

Sand filters and cartridge filters are the most popular choices for effectively filtrating above ground pools.

As with any piece of machinery, both have advantages and disadvantages associated with their operation.

Sand filters will catch particles and debris down to around 40 microns using a uniquely graded sand.

The water goes into the tank via a diffuser.

The grains of sand trap the debris when the water goes through the sand bed.

Once the water reaches the bottom of the filter and is free of debris, it enters the laterals and returns to the pool. Filter sand is fairly inexpensive, but it needs to be maintained on a regular basis or else it will become moldy and gross.

Once a sand filter is neglected, it is a real chore to empty it out, clean it and refill it with new sand.

Hayward pool filters seem to be a top choice and offer several durable models of sand filters for above ground pools.

They range anywhere from just under $200 to as much as $685 and can easily be found online.

Another brand of sand filter, Tagelus pool filters are used by pool professionals since they remove large and small particles alike and consistently deliver top-notch service.

The Tagelus brands range from $305 to $689 and are also online.

Cartridge filters are another type of pool filter used for above-ground pools. They use a paper-type cartridge that filters out larger particulates and dirt.

They offer just about the same quality of filtration as the sand filters.

Cartridge filters aren't high maintenance, but the cartridges do eventually wear out and the cost to replace them is around $200.00. It depends on the square footage of the pool as to how long the life may be of one cartridge.

They have been given a bad reputation in the past, but now there are cartridges manufactured that require only one or two cleanings a year.

The Hayward Swimclear series offers a line in the range of $649 to $870.

This model uses a grouping of four reusable cartridges and say it's possible to make it for an entire season without a single cleaning. Jandy has been recognized in the swimming pool industry since the 1950's as a leader for high-quality products.

Their cartridge filters range from $600-$700.

Sta-Rite brand also offer swimming pool filters, ranging from about $200-$400, but seems to be better suited to spas and smaller pools.

Choosing the right filter is important for the life of your swimming pool. Make sure to do ample research on each brand prior to making that all-important purchase.

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