During winter, pool owners tend to be a bit lax with the cleaning and maintenance of their swimming pools. Now with summer just around the corner, panic sets in – it is time to get the pool clean! One of the first steps is to make sure that you put the right chemicals in your pool to get it crystal clear again. Then you need to make sure that there is no algae build up on the sides of the pool, if so, you need to get this off the sides of your pool. What is also important is making sure that you have the correct pool filter for your pool. This is why you need to know the different types of pool filters that are available and which one to buy.

There are three different types of pool filters. Choosing the right one for your pool will be completely dependent on your needs. The first aspect that needs to be considered, is the fact that size does matter when it comes to pools. You will need to choose an appropriate filter that can handle the size and water level of your pool. If you get the wrong size filter, it will not be able to do its job properly, causing damage to itself and potentially your pool. The three pool filters that are available need to be looked at in further detail, to determine which one would be the appropriate size for you:

• DE pool filter: DE which stands for Diatomaceous Earth, is by far the most popular filter on the market. This is because it is the most efficient. The filter uses a powder to assist in the filtration process. This powder is made from the skeletons of Diatoms, an ancient sub-aquatic creature. This might sound bizarre but these skeletons are like tiny sponges. Which is why they are so efficient at being able to pick up the dirt that is filtered through. The powder gets dissolved as soon as it is added to the skimmer and floats down to the filter tank. Once it reaches the grid it sticks to the nylon fabric attached and coats the grid.

• Cartridge filter: this filter is normally used in small pools and even Jacuzzi’s. The filter, literally has a cartridge in side of it that is capable of picking up dirt that is 25-100 microns in size. It is simple to maintain and all you need to do is keep an eye on the pressure gage. As soon as it reaches 3.5kg-5kg over the clean mark you will need to take it out and clean it thoroughly with a hose at a high pressure, then put it back. Eventually you will need to replace the cartridge in its entirety.

• Sand filter: these filters offer the least amount of maintenance which is a major plus. The sand filter uses sand to catch the dirt and the more dirt that is captured the more efficient it becomes. Once it has reached about 5kg over the cleaning gage it will be necessary to do a back wash. In most cases you will only need to replace the sand every 5 years, which is why it is a popular choice if you want to have a low maintenance pool.

When it comes to pool care you need not look further than Pool Spa & Filtration. From pool filters to pool pumps, Pool Spa & Filtration will have just what you need. Pool Spa & Filtration will make sure that with the right equipment, your pool will be looked after all year round! To find out more about the services and products on offer through Pool Spa & Filtration, visit their website www.poolspa.co.za.