Can the plunger type backwash valve be replaced with another style?

[Bperry]

I was going to say, this is our first pool and I've only experienced with DE filter but the thing I hate most is such a mess it makes when backwashing. At least using Sand I can just dump it onto the lawn or dirt area. Sand appearing to be the cheapest of the bunch and cheap to replace so I do like the lower maintenance cost. I do like the cartridge filter idea as well, just dump it in the trash and put a new one in every several year. No concern of the heavy sand.

Thanks for everyone's input, you guys really helped my decision making harder.

Cartridges don’t need to be trashed as they can be cleaned. Should last for years.