Filters and Filter Media. What is the best?

There are three common types of filters. Sand filter, which is a filter that can be backwashed, and can use several types of filter media. DE filters, (diatomaceous earth) and cartridge.

Sand Filter:

There are several types of filter media that are superior to the old reliable # 20 silica sand media. Sand should be changed every 5 seasons. Over type the sharp sand particles erode and become round. Resulting in less effective filtration. If you choose a "sand filter" you don't have to put sand in it. See some of the filter media options below.

Zeolite:

Is a mineral found naturally in volcanic rock. It offers many benefits over traditional silica sand. In fact, Zeolite filter media can provide up to 90% more efficient filtration than sand alone. This natural and safe alternative has a honeycomb structure that traps ammonia, which helps control chloramines. The result is a more comfortable swimming experience, with reduced skin and eye irritation. 

Recycled glass:

Made from recycled glass, it provides many of the same benefits as zeolite, including the reduced need for backwashing and superior filtration. Even when backwashing is necessary, glass pool filter media requires a much shorter backwash cycle. Glass filter media is lighter and less dense than sand, which allows it to release debris quickly. Glass doesn’t tend to channel like sand does, meaning your pool water won’t bypass filtration as it flows through the filter media. The greatest benefit of glass is its longevity. You can expect your glass filter media to last for 10 years or longer. However, it’s one of the costliest sand filter media options, the expense can even out once you figure in the longevity, efficiency, and other benefits.

Cartridge Filter:

This type of filter uses a special element or set of elements in the filter tank. You have only have one option for your filter media. The cartridge filter element. Be careful, not all filter cartridges are created equal. Stick with OEM cartridges, or the well known brands such as Pleatco or Unicel. Make sure you are using the correct size, square footage, and proper GPM rating. The higher the square footage, the higher the pleat count, means it can trap more debris and go longer between cleanings. I recommend having an extra set of elements on hand. The elements need to be cleaned manually every 4-6 months. Expect elements to have a three year life span, if taken care of properly.

D.E. (diatomaceous earth) filter:

This is one of the most efficient filter media types available, and does a superior job at keeping your pool clean and clear. It’s a naturally occurring siliceous sedimentary rock made up of the fossilized remains of diatoms, basically ground up snail shells DE powder can lead to serious health issues if you breath in the powder. A D.E. filter is back-washable, but I recommend that it is taken apart a serviced once year. It is critical that the proper amount of powder is added on start up and after a backwash.

So, what's the best? My opinion, it's Dr. Dryden's AFMng. This is a recycled, activated glass media. It can filter down to one micron! It is readily available on the commercial market. The residential version is called Activate. Basically any glass type media is better than sand.

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