Think of pool filters as kidneys for your pool. Filters are important if you want to keep the water clear and free from all forms of debris. They are essential in every way, considering the significant role they play in protecting it from unnecessary wear and tear. After all, nobody wants to swim in murky and dirty-looking pool.

If you are interested in getting a filter for your pool but are confused on which one you should get, then you’re definitely in luck! To help you out, we’ve put together this short guide containing a number of proven tips that should  help you decide on what’s best for your pool.

Types of Filters

Generally, there are three types of filters you can purchase:

  • Sand Filters
  • Cartridge Filters
  • Diatomaceous Earth Filters

Although they differ in their methods of filtration, they more or less have the same purpose: to keep your pool water crystal clear.

Sand Filters

As the name implies, sand filters use sand to filter out impurities in water, coursing debris through fine grains to keep the pool clean. However, they don’t just  use any sand, but varieties which are specifically designed for pool use. These pool-safe varieties are made from either silicon, glass, or other materials. Sand filters require the least maintenance of all the enumerated filters, and with it, you only need to open the tank every few years or so.

Cartridge Filters

If you are more concerned with ease of installation, cartridge filters are probably your best pick. Not only are they easy to use, but they also take up less space. Many cartridge filters are tall and slender in build, with tanks consisting only of two pieces. Although maintenance for cartridge filters isn’t as infrequent as that of sand filters, they are, by far, easier to use, due to their minimal design and build.

Diatomaceous Earth Filters

Diatomaceous earth filters or DE filters involve the use of diatomaceous earth or soft sedimentary rock harvested underground. While that may not sound appealing to you, the high porosity of the material makes it excellent for filtration. In terms of effectiveness, DE powder is fine enough to allow water to pass through, without even the tiniest of debris sneaking in. DE filters may require periodic maintenance, but it does its job far better than the rest.

Filter needs vary for every homeowner. Although the type of filter you should use mostly depends on your preference, it’s always good to know which one works best for you in the long run, especially when it comes to function and efficiency.