The pool filter cartridge is an often-overlooked part of the pool filtration system, but it’s just as important as any other part of the pool setup. If you have a cartridge filter, a clogged or worn cartridge can make your pool look cloudy, and a cartridge that’s too large for your pool can result in water waste. If you have a D.E. pool filter, a worn cartridge can result in water with a chalky white film and can also make it harder to reach the right pH.
To help you select the right pool filter cartridge for your pool, here’s what to look for and our top picks at a variety of price points.
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Our Editor’s Best Pool Filter Cartridges Reviews
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Best Pool Filter Cartridges Buying Guide
Before choosing the best pool filter you should consider following options:
1. Pool Filter Media Types: There are two main types of pool filter media: sand and cartridge. Sand filters are the most traditional pool filter. They consist of a tank, a pad of sand, and a series of valves that pump water in and out.
Sand filters are inexpensive to repair and maintain. Sand is easy to find and relatively inexpensive. Sand filters are also easier to maintain because you can backwash them when clogged and change the media when needed.
The downside of sand filters is that they clog easily and the flow rate is slow. Cartridge filters are the most popular option for new pools. They consist of a tank, a series of valves, and two chambers separated by a filter.
One chamber holds the filter media, which can be either a polyester or polypropylene cartridge, and the other chamber holds water. When the valves are open, water flows from one chamber to the other. When the valves are closed, water can only flow through the filter media.
Cartridge filters are easier to maintain because you don’t have to backwash them. They have a faster flow rate than sand filters, but they’re more expensive. They’re also more difficult to repair because replacement cartridges aren’t readily available.
2. Pool Filter Size: Pool filters come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small bar-type filters to large cartridge filters.
Smaller pool filters are typically bar and cartridge filters, but they are also available in sand filter configurations. Bar and cartridge filters are good for pools with capacities of up to 10,000 gallons.
Large cartridge filters are generally used in pools with capacities from 15,000 to 30,000 gallons. Large sand filters are used in pools with capacities from 30,000 to 60,000 gallons.
Large sand filters are also available for larger pools, but for pools with capacities above 60,000 gallons, you’ll need a dual-tank system with one pump for water entry and a second pump for discharge.
3. Pool Filter Efficiency: Filter efficiency is measured by the percent efficiency rating (EPM) of the filter. The EPM is equal to the percentage of free flow rate that’s available through the filter media divided by the total flow rate.
A filter with an EPM of 60 indicates that 60 percent of the water flow is available through the media while 40 percent is bypassed.
Filter efficiency is important because it indicates how well the filter will clean the water. The higher the EPM, the better the filter, but you don’t need a filter with a very high EPM.
For example, a pool with a flow rate of 10,000 gallons per hour should have a filter with an EPM of 60 or higher. If you have a pool with a higher flow rate, you’ll need a filter with a higher EPM.
4. Pool Filter Cost: The cost of a pool filter varies depending on the media type, size, and efficiency.
Cartridge filters are typically more expensive than sand filters, but that’s because they have better features, such as better flow rates. You can find cartridge filters with EPMs as high as 500.
Sand filters typically have EPMs of between 50 and 100. They are usually the least expensive option for pools with capacities up to 10,000 gallons. Bar filters are typically the least expensive option for pools with capacities from 10,000 to 20,000 gallons.
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What else you should know about pool filter cartridges
1.What is the difference between a cartridge and a sand filter?
The difference between a cartridge and a sand filter is that a cartridge filter uses a pleated paper filter that captures contaminants as water flows through it, while a sand filter uses sand to trap contaminants as water flows through it.
2.What are the pros and cons of cartridge filters?
Cartridge filters have several advantages over other types of filters. They are easy to install and maintain, and they can be used with a wide variety of filter media. Cartridge filters also have a very high flow rate and can be used to filter large volumes of water quickly.
One disadvantage of cartridge filters is that they can be more expensive than other types of filters. Additionally, cartridge filters can become clogged more easily than other types of filters, and they may need to be replaced more frequently.
3.What is the best way to clean a cartridge filter?
The best way to clean a cartridge filter is to remove it and rinse it with a hose.
4.How often should I replace my pool filter cartridge?
The frequency of replacement will depend on the type of pool filter cartridge you have.
5.What are some common problems with cartridge filters?
Some common problems with cartridge filters are:
– They can be difficult to clean
– They can become clogged easily
– They can be expensive to replace
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best pool filter cartridges. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best pool filter cartridges will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.