FiberClear in a DE filter vs. mixed into a sand filter

[CombatYoga]

What is the difference between charging a DE filter with FiberClear (cellulose fiber) and mixing FiberClear in with the sand in a sand filter?

I have a friend who is building a pool and is looking hard at a sand filter, but their builder is saying they can improve the performance by mixing in FiberClear.

I also know you can substitute FiberClear for DE in a DE filter.

So what's the difference between these two methods?

SF

 

[smooth2222]

I would like to know this too, I currently use fiberclear in my sand filter and the water is crystal clear. you can also buy purefiber which is way cheaper than fiberclear.

 

[JasonLion]

FiberClear is a cellulose based substitute for DE. All of the cellulose based filter media products appear to be about the same in effectiveness.

All of the cellulose products are suitable for addition to both sand and cartridge filters as a filtering aid. However, you do not want to mix the cellulose into the sand, you want it to form a layer on top of the sand. The fibers form a dense mat which catches small particles. A low density of cellulose mixed into the sand would have no effect, while a high density of fibers mixed into the sand would clog the filter and drastically reduce the flow rate through the filter. It is far better to let it form a mat on top of the sand.

 

[CombatYoga]

Thanks Jason - is there an advantage of one over the other, or is that a religious discussion? ;-)

SF

 

[JasonLion]

Some people like one, other people prefer the other. Overall they appear to perform about the same (though some people will insist . . .)