If there is one thing that every swimming pool must have, it is a pool filter. Swimming pool filters are the main process that keeps your pool clear from all the debris that can be brought in by rain, wind, toys, swimmers, and cleaning supplies. A swimming pool filter works to promote health and safety in the water. There are three main components in the filter that allows it to keep the water clear as well as safe. During filtration, there is a pump and motor that work together to bring the water in and push it out.

The filter itself calls into three categories: Diatomaceous Earth (DE), cartridge, and sand. A DE filter is the best for filtering even the tiniest particles that could be in the water. DE can be found in the soil as it is a natural substance. It has the consistency of white, fine powder. A filter made of DE comes in two types: a vertical grid filter and a spin filter. These two terms indicate how the filter is set up. However, in the present day, the spin filter is virtually obsolete as it does not work as well as the vertical grid filter.

A sand filter uses sand to filter the water of fragments and allows the water to run through with ease. The cartridge filter operates the same way as a DE filter but without using any of substance other than fabric mesh to filter the water.

Some things that should be considered before buying swimming pool filters:

• Find the volume of the entire swimming pool. To do this, check the shape of your pool. If your pool is circular, multiply the radius, 3.14, and the average depth; if your pool is rectangular, multiply the length, width, and average depth.
• Estimate the capacity of your pool so you can calculate how much water it holds. This is an important element in purchasing swimming pool filters or pool filter parts. To get the capacity, multiply the volume using the aforementioned formula.
• Determine the type of filter you would like to purchase – sand filter, diatomaceous earth, or cartridge. Consider which one your pool will benefit with and if you want the filter to be pressure or vacuum. To allow better filtration, it is suggested that you make the filter slightly larger than the initial calculation.

You may require one type of filter or another depending on the region you live in as well as the water’s characteristics. DE provides you with the cleanest water, but they are the most costly type of filters.

Swimming pool filters should be regularly cleaned. The most recommended and frequent technique is backwashing them. This method reverses the water flow through the filter and drains away all gathered debris. Cartridge pool filters should be cleaned every 4 to 6 months since there is no way to backwash this type of filter. DE filters should be backwashed once a month, but its grids must be inspected every 6 months. Sand pool filters can be backwashed as needed but the sand in the filter should be changed every 3 to 5 years. It is important that all recommended procedures outlined by the pool manufacturer are thoroughly followed. This will help you maintain clear and healthy pool water that can be enjoyed by all swimmers.