Pool filters are an essential component of any swimming pool system, responsible for removing impurities from the water to ensure a safe and hygienic swimming experience. With so many different brands of pool filters on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. From renowned brands that have been in the industry for decades to new players that offer innovative features, the range of options available can make it a daunting task for pool owners. In this article, we explore some of the most popular pool filter brands available and their key features to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction
Types of Pool Filters
Sand Filters
Sand filters are a type of pool filter that uses sand as the filter medium. They are one of the most commonly used pool filters, as they are easy to use and maintain. Sand filters work by trapping dirt and debris in the sand bed, which allows clean water to flow back into the pool. They are typically used in residential and commercial pools, but they can also be used in spa and hot tub applications. Sand filters are available in a variety of sizes and designs, ranging from small, portable units to large, industrial-grade systems. They can be used on their own or in combination with other types of pool filters to achieve optimal results.
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Cartridge Filters
Cartridge Filters are a type of pool filter that have been gaining in popularity due to their ease of use, low maintenance, and superior filtration. These filters consist of a pleated cartridge made of material such as polyester or cellulose, which traps debris as water flows through it. Cartridge Filters are known for their ability to filter out smaller particles than sand filters, such as pollen, algae, and bacteria, resulting in a cleaner and safer swimming experience. They also have a lower pressure drop compared to other filters, which means they do not require as much energy to operate, resulting in lower energy bills. Some of the top Cartridge Filter brands on the market include Pentair, Hayward, and Jandy. Pentair’s Clean and Clear Plus Cartridge Filter offers up to 420 square feet of filtration area, which can handle larger pools with ease. Hayward’s SuperStar Clear Cartridge Filter is known for its easy-to-use clamp system, making it simple to install and maintain. Jandy’s CV Cartridge Filter features a large-capacity filter cartridge, providing better filtration and reducing the frequency of cleaning. Overall, Cartridge Filters are a great choice for pool owners looking for efficient filtration and easy maintenance.
DE Filters
DE Filters, or Diatomaceous Earth Filters, are an excellent choice for pool owners who want the best possible water quality. Unlike sand filters or cartridge filters, DE filters use a powder made from fossilized diatoms to filter out even the smallest particles from the pool water. This allows for much finer filtration than other types of filters, resulting in cleaner and more sparkling water. DE filters are also highly durable and long-lasting, with many models lasting for over 10 years with proper maintenance. They do require a bit more maintenance than other types of filters, however, including regular backwashing and cleaning of the filter grids. Additionally, DE filters are typically more expensive than sand or cartridge filters upfront, although their superior filtration and longevity can ultimately make them a better value over time.
Top Pool Filter Brands
Hayward
Hayward pool filter brands are some of the most popular in the market. The company’s filters are known for their efficiency and durability. Hayward offers a range of filters, including sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters. These filters are designed to meet the needs of different swimming pool owners. Hayward’s sand filters are ideal for small, medium, to large swimming pools, while their cartridge filters are popular among swimming pool owners who prioritize cleanliness. Hayward also offers DE filters, which are known for their superior filtering capabilities.
One popular filter in Hayward’s arsenal is the Hayward ProSeries high-rate sand filter. This sand filter is made of durable, corrosion-proof materials and boasts a large filter area for maximum filtration. Another popular filter is the Hayward SwimClear cartridge filter, which is designed to be easy to install and maintain. It has a high-capacity cartridge element that can filter out the smallest particles, ensuring crystal clear water. For those who prefer DE filters, Hayward offers the Hayward Perflex diatomaceous earth filter. This filter can effectively clean pools up to 20,000 gallons in size.
Overall, Hayward pool filter brands are a top choice for swimming pool owners who want reliable, efficient, and effective filters. With a wide range of filters to choose from and a reputation for quality, it’s no wonder that Hayward is a popular brand in the pool filter market.
Pentair
Pentair is a well-established brand in the pool filter industry. The company offers a wide range of pool filters, including sand, cartridge, and DE filters, that are designed to meet the needs of different pool owners. Pentair’s sand filters utilize a single tank and easy backwashing for efficient filtration. They range in size from small residential units to large commercial units. Pentair’s cartridge filters combine high filtration performance with low maintenance and feature a simple design that maximizes flow. Finally, Pentair’s DE filters provide superior filtration and are ideal for those who demand the best water clarity possible. Pentair pool filters also come with a range of features and additional options to enhance their performance, such as variable-speed pumps, automatic water levelers, and chemical automation. Pentair’s commitment to quality is reflected in its products, which are made using high-quality materials and innovative technologies. The company also offers exceptional customer support and a range of resources to help pool owners maintain their filters and achieve the best possible water quality. Overall, Pentair is a reputable brand that has been providing outstanding pool filtration solutions for many years. Whether you have a small residential pool or run a large aquatic facility, Pentair has a filter that can meet your needs. From innovative technologies to exceptional customer support, Pentair offers a comprehensive solution for any pool owner looking to improve their water quality.
Jandy
Jandy is a well-known pool filter brand that boasts a wide array of filter models. One of their most popular models is the Jandy Pro Series CV Cartridge Filter, which features a compact design that allows for easy installation and maintenance. With its large capacity, it can clean up to 530 square feet of surface area and accommodate up to 340 gallons per minute. Another popular model is the Jandy DEV Series D.E. Filter, which has a durable design and uses diatomaceous earth (D.E.) to filter contaminants such as dirt, oil, and debris. The DEV Series can clean up to 72 square feet of surface area and can accommodate up to 120 gallons per minute. Jandy filters are known for their high-quality construction, reliable performance, and low maintenance requirements. Their filters are designed to last for years and are backed by warranties from the manufacturer. Overall, Jandy is a fantastic choice for those looking for a high-quality pool filter that can keep their pool clean and clear all season long.
Intex
Intex is a brand that offers a wide range of cost-effective pool filtration systems for homeowners. These filters are designed to efficiently and effectively remove unwanted contaminants from the water, such as dirt, debris, and bacteria. Intex offers several types of filters, including sand, cartridge, and DE filters, each of which has its own unique advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when choosing the right filter for your pool. For example, sand filters are low maintenance and cost-effective over time, but they require regular backwashing to maintain their effectiveness. Cartridge filters, on the other hand, are easy to maintain and provide excellent filtration, but they are typically more expensive than sand filters. DE filters offer even better filtration, but they require the most maintenance and come with the highest upfront cost. Overall, Intex filters are a popular choice for those who want a balance between affordability and performance.
Sta-Rite
Sta-Rite is a well-known brand in the pool filter industry. The company has been around for more than 80 years and has established a reputation for manufacturing high-quality and reliable pool filters. Sta-Rite specializes in producing sand filters, which are ideal for large swimming pools. These filters are equipped with durable tanks that can withstand high pressure and temperature, ensuring optimal filtration performance for extended periods. The tanks are also equipped with sight glasses, making it easy to monitor the filter’s operation and ensure that it is working correctly. Sta-Rite sand filters are also designed with multi-port valves that allow for easy backwashing and maintenance. The valves can be set to various positions, allowing for flexible filtration options depending on the pool’s needs. Sta-Rite’s sand filters are available in different sizes and flow rates, making them adaptable to different pool sizes and types. They also come with a limited warranty, ensuring that customers can rely on Sta-Rite’s products for years to come. Overall, Sta-Rite’s sand filters are a fantastic choice for pool owners looking for reliable and durable filtration solutions.
Waterway
The Waterway brand of pool filters is a trusted name in the pool industry, known for its high-quality pool filtration systems. Waterway pool filters are designed to provide superior filtration while also being easy to maintain. The brand offers a range of pool filter options to cater to the diverse needs of pool owners, including sand, cartridge, and D.E. filters. Waterway sand filters are known for their high-performance filtration capabilities and are an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance option. Waterway cartridge filters are also popular due to their easy maintenance and low cost of operation. The brand’s D.E. filters are designed for maximum filtration efficiency and are perfect for those looking for the most comprehensive pool cleaning. Overall, Waterway pool filters are a great choice for those looking for reliable pool filtration systems that are easy to maintain and offer superior performance.
Jacuzzi
Among the leading brands of pool filters, Jacuzzi is a name that is widely recognized for the high-quality and reliable products it offers. With a history that dates back to the 1950s, Jacuzzi has been a trusted provider of pool and spa products for many decades. Their line of pool filters is no exception, featuring a range of options that are designed to keep pools of all sizes clean and clear of debris. One of the standout features of Jacuzzi pool filters is their use of patented technologies such as the J-Pro™ technology. This technology allows the pool filter to efficiently filter out particles as small as 2 microns in size, ensuring that the pool water is exceptionally clean and free of contaminants. Jacuzzi pool filters are also known for their durability and longevity, with many customers reporting that their filters last for many years with little maintenance required. Overall, Jacuzzi is a brand that pool owners can trust to provide exceptional quality and performance, making it a top choice for those in search of a reliable pool filter.
Unicel
The Unicel brand is one of the leading pool filter brands in the market. The brand has a reputation for producing high-quality and durable pool filters designed to meet the demands of pool owners. Unicel pool filters are available in different types, including cartridge filters, diatomaceous earth filters, and sand filters. Unicel cartridge filters are popular among pool owners as they are easy to maintain and are highly efficient in removing dirt and debris from the pool. The diatomaceous earth filters from Unicel are ideal for removing the smallest particles, while Unicel sand filters are designed to handle large amounts of debris. Unicel pool filters are also known for their long lifespan, which makes them an excellent investment for pool owners. The brand is committed to providing innovative and high-quality products that improve the swimming experience.
Pleatco
Pleatco is a well-known brand in the pool filter industry, offering high-quality filters with long-lasting durability. Its filters are made with advanced features and innovative designs that make it stand out from other brands. One of the unique features of Pleatco filters is its Free Flow Core technology, which allows for a better water flow rate and enhanced filtration. It also comes with antimicrobial end caps that prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, leading to a longer lifespan for the filters. In addition, their filters are made with high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring a low maintenance cost for pool owners. Pleatco offers a wide range of filters for different pool sizes and types, and their products are compatible with various pool filter systems. Overall, Pleatco is a reputable brand in the pool filter industry, and its products are highly recommended by pool professionals and homeowners alike.
Filbur
Filbur is a pool filter brand that has been in the market for several years. The brand offers high-quality products that are designed to meet the needs of pool owners. One of the key advantages of Filbur filters is their durability. The filters are made using high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the brand offers a wide variety of filters that are designed to meet different filtration needs. For instance, the brand offers filters that are designed to remove bacteria, contaminants, and pollutants.
Another advantage of Filbur filters is their affordability. Even though the brand offers high-quality filters, its products are reasonably priced. This makes the brand a preferred choice for many pool owners who are looking for quality filters that don’t break the bank. Filbur filters are also easy to install and maintain. The brand provides clear instructions on how to install and maintain its products, making it easy for pool owners to do it themselves.
One of the top products from Filbur is the FC- 2390 Antimicrobial Replacement Filter Cartridge. This product is designed to offer efficient filtration while preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria. The filter cartridge is made using high-quality materials that do not break down easily, ensuring that it lasts for a long time. The filter can also be easily replaced, making it easy for pool owners to maintain their filtration systems.
Overall, Filbur is a top pool filter brand that offers high-quality products that are affordable and durable. The brand’s products are designed to meet the needs of pool owners, whether they are looking for filters that remove bacteria, contaminants, or pollutants. Additionally, the brand’s products are easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for many pool owners.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pool Filter
Pool Size
One of the critical factors when choosing a pool filter brand is the size of your pool. The size of your pool will determine the size of your filter, which is essential in ensuring that your pool remains clean and healthy. When selecting a pool filter brand, it is important to consider the pool size in terms of gallons of water. For example, a smaller pool requires a smaller filter whereas a larger pool requires a larger filter. Most pool filter brands offer a variety of filter sizes to accommodate different pool sizes. The size of your pool will also determine the flow rate required for your filter, and this should be taken into consideration when selecting your filter brand.
It is worth noting that having the correct size of the filter is important in maintaining optimal pool efficiency. An undersized filter will not clean the water efficiently, leaving it dirty and prone to bacterial growth, while an oversized filter will overwork the pump, increasing energy consumption and ultimately costing more money in the long run.
When selecting a pool filter brand, it is recommended to consult with a pool professional to ensure that you select a filter that is appropriate for your pool size. Additionally, consider the filter type, maintenance requirements, and price to make an informed decision. Ultimately, choosing a reputable pool filter brand that caters to your pool size will ensure a clean, safe, and enjoyable swimming experience.
Filter Type
In selecting a pool filter, one of the most crucial factors to consider is filter type. There are three kinds of pool filters available on the market: sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters. Sand filters are the most common type of pool filter in use today. They use sand to filter out contaminants, and freshwater is then returned to the pool. Sand filters need to be cleaned periodically, and they are effective at removing debris ranging from large leaves to small particles. Cartridge filters, on the other hand, make use of large pleated cartridges to filter out debris. Cartridge filters can filter out smaller particles than sand filters, and they require less maintenance than sand filters. DE filters are the most expensive and require extremely high maintenance but offer superior filtration. DE filters use a fine, white powder, which coats the filter medium. DE filters are the most effective of the three types of pool filters because they can filter out particles as small as 2 microns in size. When considering which filter type is best for your pool, it is important to factor in the size of your pool and its specific filtration needs.
Flow Rate
Flow rate is an important consideration when it comes to selecting a pool filter. It refers to the amount of water that can be filtered in a specific amount of time, usually measured in gallons per minute (GPM). A family pool typically requires a filter system with a flow rate of at least 35 GPM. Larger pools, such as those found in public or commercial areas, may require a flow rate of 50 GPM or more. A higher flow rate can result in faster filtration, but it also requires larger filters and more powerful pumps to maintain proper water flow. The flow rate should be carefully matched to the size of the pool and the type of filter system used to ensure optimal performance and water clarity.
Maintenance
Maintenance is an essential aspect of keeping a pool filter in excellent condition. It is crucial to ensure that the filter is well-maintained at all times to prevent the accumulation of debris and dirt that could eventually lead to the filter’s failure. One of the most important maintenance tasks is cleaning the filter regularly. This process involves removing the filter cartridge or grid and hosing it down to remove dirt and debris. It is recommended to clean the filter at least once a month or more frequently during peak swimming season.
Another maintenance task is to monitor the pressure gauge regularly. The pressure gauge is an essential component of the filter and is responsible for indicating the pressure inside the filter. If the pressure gauge indicates that the pressure is too high, it may mean that the filter cartridge is dirty and needs to be cleaned. If the pressure gauge indicates that the pressure is too low, it may mean that there is a problem with the filter system that needs to be addressed.
Replacing the filter cartridge or grid is also an integral part of maintenance. Over time, filter cartridges or grids can become saturated with debris and dirt, reducing their effectiveness in keeping the pool water clean. It is recommended to replace the filter cartridge or grid at least once every swimming season to ensure that the filter operates correctly.
Ensuring that the filter system is functioning correctly is another essential aspect of maintenance. This involves checking the pump and motor regularly to ensure that they are operating correctly. Any abnormalities, such as strange noises or leaks, should be addressed immediately to avoid more significant problems in the future. Additionally, checking the filter’s valves and connection points for any signs of leaks is important.
Lastly, maintaining the pool water chemistry is vital in extending the lifespan of the filter. Maintaining the correct pH balance, alkalinity, and chlorine levels can prolong the life of the filter and prevent damage to the system. Regular testing and adjustments, especially during the swimming season, can help ensure the pool water chemistry is maintained within optimal levels.
Price
The price of a pool filter is an essential consideration to make when purchasing one. The cost is influenced by various factors, such as the size of the pool, the filter type, and the flow rate. Generally, sand filters are the most affordable, followed by cartridge filters and then DE filters, which can be the most expensive. However, the cost of the filter should not be the only aspect to consider when making a purchase. A cheaper filter may require more maintenance or may not last as long as a more expensive one. It is vital to look at the long-term cost of ownership, which factors in the filter’s durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance costs. It is also essential to purchase a filter that is sized appropriately for your pool size. An undersized filter will not effectively clean the pool water, while an oversized filter can lead to inefficient water flow, higher energy costs, and a shortened lifespan of the filter. Moreover, it is crucial to consider the brand when making a purchase. This is because certain brands may have higher prices than others, but may also have better quality, performance, and durability. In summary, the price of a pool filter should be a factor when making a purchase, but it should not be the only consideration. It is essential to factor in the pool size, filter type, flow rate, maintenance costs, and the long-term cost of ownership to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular brands for pool filters?
Some popular pool filter brands include Hayward, Pentair, Jandy, Sta-Rite, and Intex.
What is the difference between a cartridge filter and a sand filter?
Cartridge filters use pleated cartridges made of polyester or cellulose fibers to capture debris, while sand filters use silica sand to trap particles. Cartridge filters have higher filtration efficiency but require more maintenance, while sand filters have a longer lifespan but may need backwashing more often.
How do I choose the right pool filter brand for my needs?
Consider factors such as the size of your pool, the amount of debris and contaminants, your budget, and your preferred maintenance level. Consult with a professional pool installer or a representative from the filter brand for personalized recommendations.
What are some common problems with pool filters, and how can they be resolved?
Common issues include clogging, leaks, and pressure problems. Clogging can be reduced by regular cleaning and maintenance. Leaks may require replacement of damaged parts or professional repair. Pressure problems can sometimes be fixed by adjusting the pump or backwashing the filter.
What is the lifespan of a typical pool filter?
The lifespan of a pool filter depends on several factors, such as the type of filter, frequency of use, and quality of maintenance. Cartridge filters typically last 1-2 years, sand filters last 5-7 years, and DE filters can last up to 10 years with proper care.
How often should I clean my pool filter?
It is recommended to clean your pool filter at least once every few months, or as needed based on the filter type, size, and usage. Cartridge filters may need cleaning more often, while sand filters require backwashing every few weeks or when the pressure gauge indicates a certain level.