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—Comparing the options

Sand, glass or cartridge filtration

All three filter pool water well when sized correctly. They differ in how they are cleaned and what they ask of the owner.

Sand filters push water through a bed of graded sand that traps dirt; they are cleaned by backwashing, which reverses flow and sends dirty water to waste. Glass media works in the same vessels, with different characteristics that some owners prefer. Both need a drain for backwash water and periodic media replacement.

Comparison guides set out how two pool options differ and when an owner might prefer one over the other.

Cartridge filters trap dirt in pleated fabric elements. Instead of backwashing, the cartridges are removed and rinsed, and eventually replaced. They avoid backwash water but need hands-on cleaning. The choice depends on plant space, drainage and who will maintain the filter.

01Summary

What matters most here

  • Sand: robust

    Backwashed, widely used.

  • Glass: alternative media

    Same vessels as sand.

  • Cartridge: no backwash

    Rinsed by hand.

02Detail

Comparing

  • Cleaning

    Sand and glass are cleaned by backwashing at the turn of a valve; cartridges are lifted out and hosed down by hand.

  • Water use

    Each backwash sends pool water to drain, which then has to be replaced; rinsing cartridges uses less.

  • Drainage

    Media filters need a backwash drain.

  • Replacement

    Media every few years; cartridges periodically.

  • Space

    All need room for access and servicing.

03Before you start

Before choosing

  • Check drainage

    For backwash water.

  • Think about upkeep

    Backwashing or rinsing.

  • Match to pump flow

    Correct sizing.

—In practice

How to use this

Decide how the filter will be cleaned and by whom, how much water backwashing would use, and how much space there is in the plant. Then size the chosen type correctly to the pump’s flow, since any of the three performs poorly if undersized, and check there is a drain for backwash water if a media filter is chosen.

Mistakes worth avoiding

Choosing a type without sizing it
Any filter type struggles if it is too small for the pump’s flow. Sizing matters more than the choice of media.
Ignoring cleaning effort
Cartridges avoid backwashing but need regular hands-on cleaning. Choose the type that suits who will actually maintain it.

04FAQ

Common questions about this

Which filters finest?
Cartridges and some media can filter finely; sizing and upkeep matter most.
Which uses least water?
Cartridges avoid backwashing.
Can I change type later?
Yes, with plant plumbing changes.
Which suits a busy household?
Media filters with simple backwashing often suit.
How often is media replaced?
Every few years, depending on use and condition; an inspection shows when.

05Read next

More pool guides on this

Filed under pump & filtration systems. Every pool guide is listed on the pool guides page.

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