Diatomaceous earth (DE) filters are better at filtering than cartridge filters. A DE filter will result in clearer pool water than a cartridge filter.
A DE filter will work better on smaller particles while a cartridge filter will work more efficiently with larger types of debris.
Cartridge Filters are a great choice for Above Ground Pools
Although they both have some advantages, a cartridge filter would be your best choice for your pool's filtration system. A sand filter will only filter down to 20 microns while a cartridge filter will filter down to 10 microns, half the amount.
If you are looking for a highly efficient solution with the least amount of bacteria and debris left swimming around in your pool, the cartridge filter is your best solution. The cartridge filter can catch finer debris than a sand filter, being 10-20 microns versus 20-40 microns.
Generally most people replace their filter cartridges about every 3-5 years, but don't use the amount of time that has passed as the only determining factor, monitor the performance of your filter. Your time frame may be longer or shorter depending on the demand placed on the cartridge.
Unlike other filtration systems, cartridge filters don't require backwashing, which means homeowners don't waste the water and extra energy involved in backwashing. The small size of cartridge filters allows them to be run on smaller pumps because they can run with a lower flow rate pump, which saves energy.
Diatomaceous earth (D.E) filter
Named after the sedimentary rock that is used to filter the water. Diatomaceous earth is composed of chemically inert, fossilized (or skeletal) remains of billions of microscopic algae-like organisms, called diatoms. The D.E filter contains grids inside that are coated with DE powder.
Small amounts of DE can be added to a sand filter after each backwash to improve the filtering. The first time you use DE, you need to figure out how much DE to add to your filter. After the first time, you can simply mix the full amount of DE with water in a bucket and pour that slowly into the skimmer.
You shouldn't add DE to a cartridge filter. The diatomaceous earth can clog up a cartridge filter, making filtering ineffective and raising the pressure too high. It is also very hard to clean or remove DE from a cartridge filter.
Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filter Price
The average cost of a diatomaceous earth pool filter is between $520 and $2,000, depending on its size and complexity. This is one of the most efficient options.
Sand filters use 20-grade silica sand capable of trapping particles as small as 20-30 microns. Maintenance: Sand filters are considered to be the easiest to maintain. Sand filters are backwashed when the pressure reads 10 psi over the normal operating level.
Overall a DE filter will result in a much cleaner pool when compared to a sand filter. Diatomaceous earth filters filter much small particles, approx. 1-6 microns, compared to a sand filter which filters particles that are 20-40 microns in size. A DE filter will however require a lot more maintenance and ongoing costs.
Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) filters are the best possible filtration method, removing particles of 2-4 microns in size. Filter powder is added through the skimmer to coat the DE filter grids, which is backwashed out and replaced every 3-6 weeks. In-ground pool DE filters include the Pentair FNS Plus DE filters.
Of the three main types of pool filters, a cartridge filter uses the least amount of water.
Grids usually last a long time, up to about 10 years unless they are subjected to extreme conditions for extended periods.
Normally, for a DE filter, rinsing the grids/fingers off with water is sufficient. If there is stuff that won't come off with just water you can soak them in detergent. Ideally, for that, you want to use TSP (trisodium phosphate), but that is often difficult to find.
After backwashing, new DE must be added to the filter. Add the entire amount of DE the filter recommends. If you see DE returning to the pool, vacuum it to waste, after it settles. The next time you backwash and recoat, decrease the amount by 1 pound.
A filter can only remove solid particles from water — it cannot purify the pool water. Bacteria and other contaminants are smaller than one micron and can pass right through the filter. To purify water, you must use a sanitizer such as chlorine.
You should backwash your DE pool filter about once a month during pool season. In addition to the regular schedule, you'll want to perform additional backwashing if: You've been running your pool filter for 48 hours straight. This can cause a pressure build-up, even if the filter grids look clean.
Cleaning your DE Filter involves three basic steps: Backwashing, Cleaning the manifold and grid and adding new DE. The first step in cleaning your DE is to backwash. Backwashing will clear out all the dirt and debris inside your DE Filter. Place the pool filter valve in the backwash position, then start your pool pump.
Whether you choose to clean your pool with a sand or DE filter, you can easily backwash it on your own. All pool filters follow the same general steps for backwashing, but there may be small variations depending on the model you own. The owner's manual should have detailed instructions for backwashing your filter.
Flocculants cannot be used with a cartridge filter because they can wreak havoc on your filter elements. Flocculants also waste a lot of water since you will be vacuuming those clumped up particles to waste.
It's important to pour in at least 1/2 gallon of vinegar. You might have to pour in more than a half gallon of vinegar if you want a 50% concentration. The filter needs to be soaked for 3 hours.