Above Ground Filters . How to Choose
Above ground pool filters come in three basic categories: sand ; DE, and cartridge filters. You want to choose the one that will work best for your needs. Remember when buying above ground pool filters it is always best to buy the best quality your budget will allow.
Sand Filters
If you are not the type of pool owner that likes a lot of maintenance, sand filters are the best choice for you. These above ground pool filters are quite easy to use and do not require a lot of maintenance.
Sand filters work by sending pool water up and through thick sand that is inside the filter. The sand filters out particles and debris. The emerging water is clean and returns into the pool. Backwashing the filter works in reverse so the water pushes out the particles and debris that was collected in the sand. That water goes out of a special port for backwashing.
These above ground pool filters require the sand to be changed every 2 to 5 years, for the most part. This makes them ideal for low-maintenance pool filtering.
DE (diatomaceous earth) Filters
Diatomaceous earth (DE) above ground pool filters are outstanding at keeping your pool clean. They do come at a cost. They require regular maintenance since you need to replace the diatomaceous earth every time you backwash your pool.
Diatomaceous earth is a fine white powder that is made from very finely ground fossils (prehistoric fresh water diatoms). As water is passed through the mesh grids that hold the powder, the water is filtered. Clean water is then pumped back into the pool.
DE filters work amazingly well. This is great, but that means the diatomaceous earth gets dirty quickly, requiring a backwash. When you backwash with DE filters, most of the powder is lost which means you need to replace it.
For pool owners that want the ultimate in clean pools these above ground pool filters are sure to impress.
Cartridge Filters
These Cartridges are considered by many to be the best of both worlds. Exceptional cleaning, second only to DE filters and the ease of sand filters is what makes these above ground pool filters popular.
These above ground pool filters have a cartridge that contains a pool filter quite similar to the ones used in many home heating systems and wet-dry vacuums. Water is passed through the filter so particles remain on them. When the cartridge gets dirty they are easily removed and cleaned off with a hose.
Cartridges do need to be replaced every 1 to 3 years depending on their level of use.
The Bottom Line
When choosing a filter you want to choose quality. If ease of maintenance is your primary concern you want to choose a sand filter. If maximum cleaning capability is your focus than choose a DE filter. If you are interested in a mix of maintenance and power go with a cartridge . With this in mind you can choose the best of the above ground pool filters.
