Choosing from the wide variety of types and styles of swimming pool filters is not as easy as it may seem. What may work best for one swimming pool in one environment may not be the best choice for the same pool in another environment. So understanding how they work is imperative for making a correct decision.

Heavy Debris

For instance, so much is often made about the fineness of the particles that one or more types of swimming pool filters are capable of removing. However; one has to bear in mind that in general, the finer the particles that swimming pool filter will remove the easier and faster it will be come clogged with heavy debris.

Check Your Landscaping

What this means is that you have to take a look around at your landscaping before you buy your swimming pool filter. If you have heavy leafy shrubs that will be shedding into your pool on a regular basis then you would be well advised to avoid a cartridge filter and go with a sand filter system

Automatic Pool Cleaners

Don’t worry that you are going to be left without crystal clear pool water though. This is because you can purchase an automatic pool cleaner to deal with the task of removing the very fine particles that will have to be removed.

You Can’t Fight Mother Nature

Working with what you have in this way is so important. Trying to fight mother nature can result in either you having to spend an inordinate amount of time cleaning cartridges or with a clogged system that will inevitably lead to breakdowns and repairs.

Talk to an Expert

This is why if you have any level of shrubbery in your backyard you would be well advised to talk to an expert and allow him or her to weigh in on the decision making process. There is no need to take a drive though to find an expert on swimming pool filters because there are plenty of them available online.

About the Author:

Written by Alejandra Gibson. Come visit my website where you can find the latest details regarding Swimming Pool Filters as well as Pool Filters

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Understanding and Choosing Swimming Pool Filters

So your sitting there at your wifes birthday party and her wizass uncle has everyone transfixed. Hes a university professor and seems to know just about everything there is to know about everything. Plus all night he hasn’t missed one single opportunity to remind the whole house that his niece, “your wife” is married to a sewage treatment plant worker, “you”.

The Topic of Swimming Pool Filters

Then the subject of swimming pool filters comes up and his minions are perched on the edges of their chairs, hanging on his every word but nothing comes! He doesn’t know one damn thing about the subject, so you pounce like a rabid alley cat.

Your Not So Dumb After All

Your words flow like quicksilver as you explain to the crowd in your living room that swimming pool filters come in three basic types that are individually suited for any number of water maintenance situations.

Three Basic Types

They are sand filled swimming pool filters, cartridge swimming pool filter and swimming pool filters that use diatomatious earth to filter the water. You go on to further explain that diatomatios earth is a fine white powder that is comprised of the microscopic shells of ancient sea creatures. Its basically powdered chalk.

Removing the Finest of Particulate Matter

Of the tree types of pool filters, the diatomatious earth filled filters in fact, are capable of doing a more exacting job ofr removing the finest particles from a pools water. However; at the same time they are the most vulnerable to clogs from larger debris such a tree leaves.

Sand and Cartridge Pool Filters

Next up from there are the cartridge filters which also do a good job on smaller particulate matter but have to be cleaned by removing and hosing off the cartridge. Then there are the sand filled filters which are highly resistant to clogging from larger debris but don’t do as well a job on removing smaller particles.

About the Author:

Written by Alejandra Gibson . Find the latest and greatest info on Swimming Pool Filters and even Pool Filters

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Swimming Pool Filter Trivia – be the Life of the Party

Swimming pools have traditionally had either a sand, cartridge or DE filter to clean the water. Let’s look at the differences of each type of filter.

SAND FILTERS, the first type of filter operates using fine filter sand inside the tank or vessel to gather the dirt and debris from the pool. The pool water is sent to the filter from the pool pump to the top of the tank and a fitting inside the vessel called the distributor “rains” the water down and through the sand. As the water migrates down through the bed of sand the pool water is collected by the laterals inside the bottom of tank and returned to the pool filtered and clean. The sand inside the filter can last for many years if the filter is “backwashed”. What is backwashing? Backwashing is when the water flow inside the filter is reversed (using the selector valve outside the filter) and the dirty water and debris are flushed out through the waste line of the pool system. During backwashing, some sand will be lost each time and the water level of the pool will be lowered. When it is time to replace the sand, the old sand will need to be removed, either by hand or tool and the filter will need to be replenished with new fresh filter media.

The second type of filter is a CARTRIDGE FILTER, it uses a replaceable cartridge element to capture dirt and debris from a pool and or spa. The cartridge is housed in a tank, the upper dome or lid is held on by a knob or clamp and is manufactured with remove ability in mind. When the cartridge has collected enough dirt and debris the cartridge is removed, hosed off, dirt removed and the element is replaced back into the tank. The cartridge will last for many years if it is cleaned on a regular basis and not allowed to become over filled. Cartridge filters when cleaned do not require backwashing; the pool water level is unaffected during cleaning. Cartridge filters are a perfect choice for spas due to this fact and the fact of easy of cleaning.

The DE FILTER is the third type of filter we will discuss. This type of filter has grids which are inside the tank and which hold a thin layer of DE. As the pool water is sent to the tank from the pool pump it passes through these grids, covered with DE and the DE captures the dirt and debris for removal. The diatomaceous earth filter can be “backwashed” periodically to remove dirt and debris from inside the filter. Just like the sand filter each time the filter is backwashed, the pool level is lowered and some DE is lost. Eventually the filter will need to be disassembled, the old DE removed and fresh diatomaceous earth replaced inside the filter. Fresh DE can be added directly to the filter tank while the tank is open for servicing.

After looking at all three types, which type is the best? All three types offer excellent filtering capabilities and if maintained in top working order, all three can and will keep your swimming pool and or spa clear and crystal blue. The filter is a key part of your pool system, if it does not function correctly expect to spend extra time and effort maintaining your backyard investment, maintain it on a regular basis and enjoy your backyard paradise each and every day.

About the Author:

Ron Burr graduated from Florida Atlantic University in 1978 and has been actively involved in the pool and spa industry for over 30 years. Ron is the owner of One Stop Pool Supplies http://www.onestoppoolsupplies.com a great place to shop for all your pool and spa requirements.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Sand, Cartridge or De - How These Swimming Pool Filters Differ

Owning a personal swimming poll can provide your family with hours of fun during the winter months. Pool parties, bar-b-q’s, and long relaxing days in the pool will make for wonderful family memories. However, there are a lot of things to consider when purchasing a new pool. It has to be cleaned and maintained. In addition you have to buy certain products to keep it running efficiently. Swimming pool filters will be one of the main things you will buy when owning a pool. However, there are three main types of filters available today. You have to choose the one that best matches your needs.

Cartridge Swimming Pool Filters

Cartridge swimming pool filters are made from a paper type material. These filters are placed inside the housing and work to block debris from pacing back into the pool. When the filter becomes dirty it can be removed and sprayed off with a water hose for continued use. After time the filter will begin to break down and need to be replaced. However, with proper cleaning and maintenance this type of filter could last for up to five years. The cost for replacement will vary by brand and type.

Sand Swimming Pool Filters

Swimming pool filters made of sand are the most common type used today. However, they are the most inefficient at cleaning water. The water is passed through sand, which is supposed to catch any debris, before being pushed back into the pool. The biggest problem most people have with this type of filter is the seepage of sand into the pool. In most cases the filter will last up to six years, but maintenance will be required on a weekly basis in some situations. Most people consider this to be the most time consuming type of filter.

Activated Charcoal Swimming Pool Filters

Activated charcoal swimming pool filters are one of the most effective types available on the market today. These filters can eliminate massive amounts of chemicals, toxins, or bacteria from the water. One small filter can actively attract a large amount of debris. However, these are one of the most expensive types of swimming pool filters. At the Same time they do remove more debris and toxins than any other type available on the market today.

Diatomaceous Earth Swimming Pool Filters

These swimming pool filters offer a natural or green way to filter your swimming pool. The earth matter can be purchased in a powder format. It can then be added to either the filter or the swimming pool. When added directly to the pool the powder can circulate through and remove any contaminates. The filter attracts the biological matter as it passes through to remove any debris. When the filter needs to be cleaned it can be soaked in clean water or sprayed off with a high pressure hose. However, you will have to continue purchasing the powder that needs to be added to the water in the pool.

Choosing the right type of filter will need to be based on the amount of money and time you are willing to invest in the filtration process.

About the Author:

Swimming Pool Information on inground and above ground swimming pools including maintenance, design, construction, and repair. For details visit http://www.swimmingpoolpros.net

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Choosing the Best Swimming Pool Filters for Your Pool

Over the course of the past few decades cartridge style pool filters have been making huge gains in popularity. The reasons are simple. It’s all the result of a range of new developments that have served to improve this style of pool filter in several areas. No where is this more obvious then in Hayward pool filters new generation of replacement cartridges.

An Excellent Concept

When cartridge filters were first developed and introduced to the public they were a good product in concept but the actual technology to support the idea was lagging. Older style plastics and manufacturing processes meant that the actual replacement cartridges degraded too quickly and weren’t able to remove particles as fine as todays cartridges are now capable of removing.

New Developments

However; all that has changed today and nowhere else is this more apparent than in Hayward pool filters replacement cartridges. Not only are these replacement filters made of a newer and much more superior reinforced polyester plastic but they are also now manufactured to far more exacting specifications.

Number One on the Market

The end result is clearer water, less maintenance and replacement filters that stand up much longer to the harsh environment that they function in. This in turn has led Hayward pool filter replacement cartridges to now be the number one choice today of all replacement filters that are currently on the market.

Energy Efficient

One more benefit of this scientifically engineered and computer aided designed, state if the art replacement filters is greater energy efficiency, as the result of a smoother more even flow-through design that means far less resistance on the pool pump. Remember that the pool pump is where most of the energy that a pool consumes is used and thus should be your primary focus when looking to conserve electricity.

About the Author:

Written by Jakob Albertstein. Let’s talk more about Hayward Pool Filters and Swimming Pool Filters at my website.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Hayward Pool Filters Replacement Cartridges

The three primary types of swimming pool filters used in residential pools are Cartridge Filters, Diatomaceous Earth Filters (DE filters), and Sand Filters.

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge Pool Filters use pleated paper filter elements to filter out dirt and debris from the swimming pool water. Cartridge filters are the easiest of all of the filter types to maintain and are cleaned by simply removing the elements from the filter and spraying them off with high-pressure water. If maintained properly, newer filter cartridge elements should last from three to five years. Replacement filter cartridge prices can range from moderate to expensive, but are probably the most practical choice for residential swimming pools.

Diatomaceous Earth Filters (DE Filters)

Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filters, also known as DE Filters, use diatomaceous earth powder to filter out dirt and debris from the swimming pool water. The diatomaceous earth powder is pre-mixed with water and slowly added through the skimmer while the filter is on and sticks to the filter grids inside the filter to form the filter medium. DE filters are a little messier to maintain then cartridge filters. Similar to cartridge filters, high pressure water is used to remove the used DE powder from the filter grids and the dirty diatomaceous earth can get quite messy. DE filters are the most efficient at cleaning the water.

Sand Filters

Sand Pool Filters use silica sand to filter out dirt and debris from the swimming pool water. Sand pool filters are the least efficient at cleaning the water and require more maintenance than the cartridge filters. Although the sand only needs to be replaced every three to six years, sand pool filters need to be backwashed frequently in order to function efficiently.

In summary, all three of the filter types described above can be a good choice depending on the swimming pool and individual circumstances. Cartridge filters are probably the most practical choice when buying a new swimming pool filter because of their ease of maintenance. The newer cartridge swimming pool filters can be purchased in large enough sizes that minimize cleaning to once or twice a year depending on the size of the swimming pool.

About the Author:

Dave LeBeau is a professional swimming pool technician sharing his experience and knowledge on the topic of swimming pool maintenance.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - The Basics of Swimming Pool Filter Types

Hayward pool filters come in three basic styles, with those being diatomatious earth, sand and of course cartridge. Cartridge pool filters have been around for decades but in recent years they have been surging in popularity for a number of reasons that may surprise you.

A Basic Concept

The concept of a cartridge filter is quite simple. The swimming pool water enters the system, is directed to the actual filter chamber where it subsequently passes through a plastic filter unit.

The Function of the Filter Unit

First, the larger particles in the water are trapped in the filter unit, which then begins to clog the passageways. As these passageways become tighter by being clogged by these larger particles, they then function to trap the smaller particles that are suspended in the water.

New Advancements in Cartridge Style Hayward Pool Filters

Hayward pool filters are some of the most advanced cartridge type pool filters that are currently available on the market. The development of newer plastics and the refinement of the manufacturing process has led to the emergence of a new family of more durable and effective filters.

Removing Suspended Particles as Small as 10 -15 Microns

Cartridge style Hayward pool filters are have set the new standard for the entire pool industry. They not only are capable of removing suspended particulate matter as small as ranging between 10 – 15 microns in diameter but they also offer a number of newly developed convenience features that make maintaining your pools filter system a breeze.

Your Pools Unique Water Maintenance Particulars

However; it is imperative to bear in mind that each pool will have its own maintenance particulars that will enter into the final decision making process of determining just what type of pool filter will suit it best. So learn about all three type of Hayward pool filters before rendering your final decision.

About the Author:

Written by Jakob Albertstein. Let’s talk more about Hayward Pool Filters and Pool Filters at my website.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Cartridge Style Hayward Pool Filters – Understand the Science

Cartridge Stats: (Sq Ft 120) (O.D. 8-15/16″) (Length 23-5/16″) (I.D. 4″)

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Leading cartridge filter manufacturer Pleatco Pure’s PA120 replaces Hayward CX1200-RE (Unicel C-8412).

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By now you may already know that swimming pool filters come in three basic types. Those types are sand, DE or “diatomatious earth” and cartridge filters. So which one of the three does the most exacting job of removing the very finest of particles from your pools water?

5 Microns in Diameter

That would definitely be the DE pool filters. This is because DE swimming pool filters are able to trap particles as small as 5 microns in diameter. The next up would be the cartridge filter, that screens out particles of between 10 -15 microns in diameter.

Is it Backwash Time Yet?

Because the DE filter is operated at high pressure, it is imperative that the proper pump be connected to the system. So how do you know when it is time to backwash a DE pool filter to remove the debris that it has accumulated?

Yes! It’s Backwash Time

That determination is done by examining the pressure guage that is connected to the filter. When it is registering 6 pounds over normal then that means that the accumulated particles in the filter are begin to clog the system.

Tiny Ancient Microscopic Sea Shells

Each microscopic particle of diatomatious earth is actually the tiny shell of an ancient one celled sea creature called a diatom. They are actually quite porous, which makes them each their own little water filter as the water pases through these incredibly small pores.

More DE Please!

After back flushing a DE filter, the grids inside of the filter itself have to be re coated with diatomatious earth. This is accomplished through a simple process that involves feeding fresh DE, which is essentially a type of very fine powdered chalk back into the filter through the skimmer.

About the Author:

Written by Alejandra Gibson. Let’s talk more about Swimming Pool Filters and Swimming Pool Liners at my website.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - The Most Exacting of All Swimming Pool Filters