Sand filters are one of the most popular ways to filter water. They are simple, effective, and require very little attention. Pool water is routed through a sand-filled pressure vessel. Over time, dirt accumulates in the spaces between the sand particles causing the pressure in the vessel to rise as water finds it harder to pass through. This signals you to “backwash” the filter.
When you own a swimming pool of course you need to maintain it and keep it clean and in good repair. If the water is not cared for it can become unhealthy for swimming even if it seems clear and untouched, and anyone swimming in poor quality water can experience skin irritations and even allergic reactions. The pool itself also needs to be cared for properly so that it doesn't have any type of buildup when it comes to mold and mildew, and your pool filters will play a large part in how this maintenance happens.
Typically pool filters gently pull the water through a type of filter and catch and trap any dirt, sediment, and other such elements and then wash the clean water back into the swimming area. The actual materials used to clean out the water and to trap dirt and sediment will vary, as will the mechanics of the pool filters themselves. In some cases you need to buy a specific model that is meant for the type of pool you have, and in other cases you'll need to decide on what's best for your home or apartment or other area.
To understand your choices when it comes to pool filters, it's good to first of all have a better understanding of how they work. You no doubt already know that they pull the water towards this area, albeit very gently. The water is then run through sand or a cartridge, or other such elements that are meant to trap dirt and debris. In some cases the water is returned through the pool filters again for a second cleaning and for it to go back into the swimming area.
With cartridges for pool filters, you'll need to replace them on a regular basis, often once per year or every few years, depending upon your area and the other cleaning you do for your swimming area. These often give the best type of cleaning and are often recommended for public pools or those in apartment complexes and hotels, since their cleanliness is most important. D.E. pool filters are also relatively new to the market and provide more cleaning; these use micro crystals that pick up dirt and sediment that is very tiny and invisible to the naked eye.
It's good to remember that pool filters can only do so much to keep your pool clean. Some wonder why their water is murky or dirty or why the sides of the pool do build up mildew and assume it's a problem with the filter, but water's chemical levels and regular cleaning of the walls are imperative. No matter the type of filter you have, it cannot keep mold and mildew from building up if the walls are not cleaned properly and if the water's pH is not maintained. You can even increase the life of your pool filters by maintaining your pool according to your owner's manual and by vacuuming it regularly as well.
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How To Choose The Right Size Pool Filter
Like shopping for most major pool equipment, it can be hard to understand the correct way to determine what model, size, brand, etc. equipment is best for you and your pool. In this post we go over the three types of filters and how to determine what size filter your pool needs.
Zeobrite: The Non-Toxic, Environmentally Safe Alternative to Traditional Silica Sand Media
When it comes to keeping the “green” out of your pool, many people, including pool professionals, are turning to a Zeobrite. Learn more about this non-toxic, environmentally safe product that is quickly becoming the go-to product for superior filtration and water clarity.
How to Clean Your Pool Filter
If your pump is the heart of your pool or spa the filter is its kidneys. Daily, your filter removes dirt, oil, organic and inorganic substances. Having clean, healthy water is dependent on your filter operating at its peak performance and that is with a clean filter.
