Both systems provide excellent water clarity. Cartridge filters can trap finer particles (10-20 microns) than a standard pool filter with sand (20-40 microns). However, upgrading a pool media filter with high-quality glass pool filter media allows it to capture particles as small as 5-10 microns, giving it the edge in filtration performance.

For sand filters, pool sand for pool filter typically lasts 3-5 years, while glass media can last up to 10 years. For cartridge filters, the pleated cartridge element usually needs to be replaced every 1-3 years, depending on pool usage and cleaning frequency.

It depends on your preference. A pool media filter requires more frequent but quicker maintenance (backwashing for 5-10 minutes every month or two). A cartridge filter requires less frequent but more hands-on maintenance (removing and hosing down the cartridge for 15-20 minutes a few times a year).

Yes, you can. Switching from a sand filter to a cartridge filter is a relatively straightforward plumbing job. It's a popular choice for those looking to conserve water. Likewise, you can also switch from a cartridge to a media filter if you prefer lower-frequency maintenance.

Knowing how to backwash a sand filter is essential maintenance. Always turn the pump OFF before moving the valve! The steps are: 1. Turn pump OFF. 2. Set multi-port valve to BACKWASH. 3. Run pump until water in the sight glass runs clear (approx. 2-3 mins). 4. Turn pump OFF. 5. Set valve to RINSE. 6. Run pump for 30-60 seconds to resettle the sand. 7. Turn pump OFF. 8. Return valve to FILTER and restart the pump. You should perform a sand filter backwash whenever the pressure gauge rises 8-10 PSI above its clean operating pressure.

Most pool sand filters require the sand media to be replaced every 3 to 5 years (up to 10 years for glass filter media). You know it's time when the sand feels clumpy, or if your water quality drops even after proper backwashing. To replace sand in sand filter: 1. Turn the pump OFF and drain the filter tank. 2. Remove the multi-port valve and old sand (use a wet/dry vacuum). 3. Inspect and replace damaged laterals. 4. Add water to cushion the laterals. 5. Carefully pour in the correct amount of new pool filter sand or media. 6. Reassemble the valve and perform a backwash/rinse cycle. Mr Pool Man provides high-quality pool filter sand replacement and media.

Sizing is determined by your pool's volume and the required water turnover rate (typically every 6-8 hours). To find the required flow rate, divide your pool volume (in Litres) by the total minutes in your desired turnover time. The sand filter you choose must have a maximum flow rate greater than this figure, plus a safety margin (approx. 20%) to account for resistance. Choosing a larger sand filter pool system than strictly required is always better, as it reduces pressure and extends the time between backwashes, increasing the lifespan of the best sand pool filter.

Finding sand in the pool usually indicates an internal problem with your pool sand filter. The most common causes are a broken lateral (the finger-like tubes at the bottom of the filter) or a crack in the central standpipe. To remove the sand from the pool, use your manual vacuum set to the WASTE position (not filter). This ensures the sand goes out the waste line, preventing it from recirculating and causing more damage. You can find replacement laterals, standpipes, and high-quality pool filter glass media at Mr Pool Man to repair your system quickly.