Pros & Cons of Cartridge Filters for Swimming Pools

With the choices out there, it can be confusing for a pool owner to figure out which type of pool filter is best. The good news is that all three of the main types of filters on the market are capable of cleaning the water in your pool. They do, however, vary in their levels of effectiveness. In order to figure out which one is right for your pool, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of each type. In our first article, we explored the strengths and weaknesses of sand filters. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the high and low points of cartridge filtration systems.

Cartridge Filters

Cartridge filters are popular for above ground pools, especially small ones. They’re also frequently used in spas and hot tubs. They consist of a polyester cartridge that has a fan-folded design. That cartridge draws in debris from the pool that’s as small as 5 microns in size. Listed and explained below are some of the reasons why pool owners prefer cartridge filters.

Advantages of Cartridge Filters

1. No Backwashing

Unlike sand filters, cartridge filters don’t require backwashing.

2. Save on Energy

Because they don’t need backwashing, cartridge filters are more energy-efficiency than sand filters. This could end up saving you money on your monthly energy bills.

3. Water Conservation

Cartridge filters also don’t waste as much water as sand filters. This opens up a potential for savings on your water bill. You may also save money on extra chemicals you’d need to purchase to add to your pool if you have to put more water into the pool after backwashing while using a sand filter.

4. Exceptional Cleaning

Their filtration down to tiny microns can make your pool water sparkling clean and sanitary.

Disadvantages of Cartridge Filters

1. Frequent Cleanings Required

On the downside, cartridge filters do require more frequent cleaning than sand filters. They should be manually cleaned by removing the filter and hosing the filter down. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions for proper removal of the filter. They should also be chemically cleaned every few months. Usually, six months is the maximum amount of time you should wait between cleanings. Depending on the amount of use your pool gets, cartridge filters could require even more frequent cleanings. Along with manual cleaning, they require chemical cleaning twice a year.

2. High Cost

Cartridge filters aren’t cheap. They also require frequent replacement than sand filters, which means you’ll be spending more money on both the initial installation and the continued use of your filtration system due to replacement costs.

3. More Difficult to Use

Because of their need for regular cleaning and replacement, cartridge filters tend to be more of a hassle to use and maintain than sand filters.

If you’re choosing between a sand filter or a cartridge filter, a lot of your choice will boil down to how much money and maintenance time you want to put into filtering your pool’s water. You should also consider how important it is for you to have extremely clean pool water.

Our final installment in this series will look at the pros and cons of an even more efficient filtration system known as Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filters.

Lyon Financial

Since 1979 Lyon Financial has made the backyard resort dream come true for over 400,000 families across the U.S. Through our solid relationships with more than 3,000 pool contractors and our continued commitment to putting our clients first, we have built a reputation as the first choice in providing pool financing solutions. For more information, visit lyonfinancial.net or call (877) 754-5966 today.