Cartridge vs Sand Filter: Simple Breakdown for Crystal Clear Water

Okay, so I’ve been messing around with different pool filters lately, trying to figure out what’s best for my backyard oasis. I started with the two big ones everyone talks about: cartridge filters and sand filters. Let me tell you, it’s been a bit of a journey.

First, I installed a sand filter. These things are the old-school option, and they’ve been around forever. You basically fill a big tank with special filter sand, and the water gets pushed through it. The sand catches all the dirt and junk, and clean water comes out the other side. Sounds simple enough, right?

Well, it was, kind of. The sand filter did a decent job of keeping the water clear, but I found that I had to backwash it pretty often. That’s where you reverse the flow of water to flush out all the trapped dirt. It works, but it’s a bit of a hassle, and you lose a lot of water in the process. Plus, the sand only catches stuff down to about 20-40 microns, which isn’t super fine.

So, after a while, I decided to switch things up and try a cartridge filter. These guys use a pleated fabric filter that you pop into a housing. The idea is that the fabric traps even smaller particles than sand, so you get clearer water.

I installed the cartridge filter, and I have to say, I was pretty impressed. The water did seem to be a bit sparklier. Plus, there’s no backwashing! You just pull out the cartridge every now and then, hose it down, and pop it back in. Way easier. And these filters can catch particles down to 10-15 microns, so they do a better job of filtering out the really fine stuff.

But, it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. The cartridge filters do need to be replaced every year or two, which can get a little pricey. And, if you have a lot of debris in your pool, they can clog up pretty quickly, which means more frequent cleaning.

Here’s what I learned:

• Sand filters are cheaper upfront and last longer, but they require more maintenance and don’t filter as finely.
• Cartridge filters give you clearer water and are easier to maintain, but the cartridges need replacing, and the upfront cost can be higher.

Honestly, it comes down to what you prioritize. If you want the cheapest option and don’t mind the extra work, go with sand. If you want super clear water and easier maintenance, a cartridge filter is probably the way to go.

For me, I think I’m sticking with the cartridge filter for now. The clearer water is worth the extra hassle of cleaning the cartridges, and I like that I’m not wasting a bunch of water backwashing. But who knows, maybe I’ll try something different down the line. The pool filter journey continues!