Filters for above-ground pools

Both systems filter well, but they do not offer the same compromise.

• THEsand (or glass) filteris the most popular: it's robust, easy to use, and inexpensive to maintain. It filters slightly less finely than a cartridge filter, but is still more than sufficient for a residential pool. Cleaning is done by backwashing, so it's very simple, and the sand/glass only needs changing every 3 to 7 years. It's generally thebest overall compromise: good ratio of clarity / simplicity / annual cost.
  
• THEcartridge filteroffers aimproved filtration fineness(water often more crystalline) and createsless pressure loss(better flow rate, less pump strain). On the other hand, it requires more manual work: frequent rinsing, occasional soaking in a cleaner, and replacement of the cartridges every 1 to 3 years, which slightly increases maintenance costs.
  

For the majority of pool owners who want somethingsimple, reliable and economical, THEsand filter (or sand/glass filter)remains the best compromise. For those looking for aultra-clear waterand accept a little more maintenance and cost, thecartridge filteris an excellent choice.

Consult our comprehensive guide to select the model best suited to your pool's capacity, required flow rate, and desired filtration fineness.

Filter sand should be changed every 3 to 5 years, depending on pool usage, water quality, and filter maintenance. If the pressure increases rapidly, the water remains cloudy despite proper treatment, or the sand becomes compacted or greasy, it's time to replace it. Filter glass, on the other hand, typically lasts 5 to 8 years.

To maintain good flow, rinse the cartridge with clean water every 2 to 4 weeks, paying particular attention to the pleats to remove sand, oil, and debris. For a deeper clean, soak the cartridge in a degreaser or a cleaner specifically designed for filters, then rinse thoroughly before reinstalling it. Regular maintenance prevents the cartridge from clogging, preserves normal system pressure, and ensures optimal filtration.

• Trigger: when the pressure rises by approximately + 20–25% vs. “clean” pressure.
• Routine: Backwash 2–3 min until the water runs clear in the sight glass, then rinse for 20–30 seconds before returning to Filtration.
• Trick: avoid the weekly “automatic” backwash; base it on themanometer.

• Filtration: normal use.
• Backwash: media cleaning (pump)ON), discharges into the sewer.
• Rinse: puts the sand bed back in place after backwashing (pump)ON → sewer).
• Waste / Sewer: filter bypass (suction → discharge), useful for lowering the water level or sucking up large debris.
• Recirculation:complete filter bypass(suction → return to the pool without going through the media). Practical formix productsor diagnose a filter problemwithout cloggingthe media.
• Closed:All exits closed.Never operate the pumpin this position (risk of overpressure). Only used to briefly isolate equipment when stopped.
• Winter / Winterize: position of decompression/storage for the off-season. Pump OFF, on drain the tank through the stopper, we remove the pressure gauge we leave the handle on Winterize(or between two notches depending on the model) for do not crush the joints.

A filter cartridge typically needs replacing every 1 to 3 years, depending on pool usage, water quality, and filter maintenance. If the pressure rises rapidly, the cartridge remains dirty despite thorough cleaning, or the pleats are damaged, soft, or crushed, it's time for a replacement. A worn cartridge reduces filtration efficiency and can overload the pump.

Consult our comprehensive guide to select the optimal model based on your pool size, water flow rate, and desired filtration capacity.