D.E. filter vs. Sand or cartridge filters

[catchyoulater]

I have a 15'x25' oval pool and it's about 30 years old. It's about time to replace. I am looking at same size pools and they come with filters and pumps. All seem to offer sand filters but I have always had D.E. filters.

Which is better? What are the differences? Thanks for any help on the subject!

 

[PSW]

A sand filter will filter down to 40 microns, and require back-washing somewhat regularly

A DE filter will filter down to 5 microns, and require back-washing (less often than sand)

A cartridge filter will filter down to 10 microns and cartridges are cleaned manually (no backwashing)

 

[catchyoulater]

A sand filter will filter down to 40 microns, and require back-washing somewhat regularly

A DE filter will filter down to 5 microns, and require back-washing (less often than sand)

A cartridge filter will filter down to 10 microns and cartridges are cleaned manually (no backwashing)

Sounds like a cartridge does the best filtering and the D.E. next best or am I reading this wrong?

 

[PSW]

DE filters out the most 'junk.' (based on the lowest micron filtering ability)

Cartridge still do a great job, but not quite as well as DE. They are, however, easiest to clean in my opinion. Some people might disagree, but I would rather hose off a cartridge than backwash and add more DE media or sand.

 

[catchyoulater]

DE filters out the most 'junk.' (based on the lowest micron filtering ability)

Cartridge still do a great job, but not quite as well as DE. They are, however, easiest to clean in my opinion. Some people might disagree, but I would rather hose off a cartridge than backwash and add more DE media or sand.

LOL, I realize I read it wrong -- of course the D.E. filters out the most junk! So I think I'd like to stay away from sand filters. Go with another D.E. or try a cartridge! Yup, I'd rather just hose something off than do all that backwashing and messing around with adding more D.E.

Thanks for the input!

 

[Isaac-1]

If you live in an area where water is expensive or use may be restricted during dry seasons, you may want to more strongly consider cartridge filters.

Ike

 

[mynewpool]

I switched from a DE filter to a cartridge. Now my cartridge is a step up from my DE filter so I am getting more filtration. I have not noticed a difference in clarity since I have switched.

 

[PSW]

I switched from a DE filter to a cartridge. Now my cartridge is a step up from my DE filter so I am getting more filtration. I have not noticed a difference in clarity since I have switched.

A DE filter will filter our smaller particles than a cartridge filter can..BUT the difference is not usually noticeable to the human eye.

 

[mynewpool]

I switched from a DE filter to a cartridge. Now my cartridge is a step up from my DE filter so I am getting more filtration. I have not noticed a difference in clarity since I have switched.

A DE filter will filter our smaller particles than a cartridge filter can..BUT the difference is not usually noticeable to the human eye.

Yea I know that, but I also went up in size with my cartridge filter so I assume I am getting better filtration, but I could be wrong which would not suprise me haha.

 

[catchyoulater]

Sounds like cartridge is the way to go. I won't miss having to backwash and replace the D.E. that's for sure. They sound a lot easier to clean!

 

[Casey]

I loved my DE filter and would buy another one in a heart beat over the sand or the cartidge filters. I've never owned a sand or cartridge but I love the DE filter enough to not want anything else. I don't mind the extra work of pouring in DE to reload. Pool Care is dang near non existant here at TFP with the BBB or SWG.

 

[mas985]

One thing that hasn't been mentioned is that since a cartridge filter does not have a backwash valve, it is also the most energy efficient (i.e. lowest head loss) of all three filters. So the energy factor (gallons/watt-hr) will be higher on a cartridge pool.

 

[Beez]

I made peace with my DE filter after switching to cellulose. In the process, I discovered an easy way to clean it. Barb adapter in the drain to hook up a drain hose, then spray off the grids directly within the housing. No disassembly required. Superior filtering + easy maintenance, what's not to love?

Still if I was buying new I would probably choose cart...

 

[catchyoulater]

One thing that hasn't been mentioned is that since a cartridge filter does not have a backwash valve, it is also the most energy efficient (i.e. lowest head loss) of all three filters. So the energy factor (gallons/watt-hr) will be higher on a cartridge pool.

Considering how high our electric is in Los Angeles, I could use the more energy efficient cartridge! I do love the D.E. filter, but again, never had anything else!

 

[Stanski]

Sounds like cartridge is the way to go. I won't miss having to backwash and replace the D.E. that's for sure. They sound a lot easier to clean!

I've owned a Pentair cartridge filter for 7 years. You need to remove the filter once a month and spray it with your garden hose. Once a year you will need to buy a new filter. Depending on size mine cost me between $75-$100 each year !