how does a pool filter work

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How Does a Pool Filter Work?

For those who own a swimming pool, understanding how the equipment works is important for its proper maintenance. One of the essential pieces of equipment is a pool filter. In this article, we will delve into the workings of a pool filter to help you better understand its importance in keeping your pool clean and clear.

Types of Pool Filters

Before we delve into the workings of a pool filter, it's essential to understand the different types of pool filters available in the market. The three main types are sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth filters.

- Sand Filters - Sand Filters are the most common type of pool filter. They use sand as the filtering medium to remove debris from the water. Sand filters are easy to maintain and require backwashing to clean the pool filter.

- Cartridge Filters - Cartridge Filters are the second most common pool filter. It is constructed from a pleated material that filters out debris floating in the pool water. Cartridge filters are easy to maintain and require cleaning several times throughout the swimming season.

- Diatomaceous Earth Filters - Diatomaceous Earth or DE Filters are among the most efficient pool filters. They use a powder made from fossilized remains of diatoms as the filter medium. DE filters can filter out debris as small as two microns. However, they require more maintenance and frequent backwashing.

The Filtration Process

A pool filter aims to keep the water in your pool clean by removing debris and contaminants. The filtration process happens in three stages - the pre-filter stage, the filtration stage, and the post-filter stage. Let's take a closer look at each of these stages.

Pre-Filter Stage

The pre-filter stage is the first step in the filtration process, and it involves removing large debris before it gets to the pool filter. A skimmer basket, leaf trap, and hair and lint pot are examples of pre-filter devices used to remove large debris, like leaves, bugs, and hair strands, respectively. The pre-filter stage helps to protect the pool filter from clogging prematurely.

Filtration Stage

Once the water has passed through the pre-filter stage, it now gets to the pool filter. The filtration stage is the most critical stage in the filtration process. The water passes through the filter medium, which traps debris and contaminants in the water. For sand and DE filters, the dirt and debris are trapped in the filter medium. On the other hand, cartridge filters trap debris on the surface of the pleated material.

Post-Filter Stage

The post-filter stage of the filtration process is optional and only applies to DE filters. In this stage, a powder called DE coat is added to the filter. The DE coat helps to improve the filtration process by providing a second layer of filtration that traps even the smallest debris.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the pool filter works as it should. Regular backwashing helps to keep sand and DE filters functioning optimally by removing clogged debris from the filter medium. Cartridge filters, on the other hand, require cleaning several times throughout the swimming season to keep the pleated material clean.

Conclusion

A pool filter is an essential component in keeping your pool clean and clear. Understanding the types of pool filters available and how they work is important in selecting the best pool filter for your pool. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your pool filter works correctly to keep your pool clean.