A swimming pool without a filtration device has dirty, cloudy water full of bacteria and algae. This system is therefore essential to be sure of bathing in clean, healthy and renewed water. There are several pond filtration models, whose characteristics and prices vary, as well as the fineness of filtration. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at this file to help you make the right choice.
Why is the pool filtration system important?
Filtering the water in your swimming pool is essential for bathing in clean and healthy water. Indeed, unfiltered water stagnates and accumulates impurities; it develops bacteria, algae and micro-organisms that are bad for your health.
The filtration device is not used to simply eliminate dead leaves and insects, but to purify the water in the pond by removing dirt and micro-organisms that pollute it.
To filter the water effectively, your pool’s filtration device must run for several hours during the day and be on during swimming.
If your health is at stake, know that there are several kinds of swimming pool filtration systems, as well as extremely variable prices. Indeed, the cheapest are sold for 80 euros against more than 1,000 euros for the most efficient. It’s up to you to choose the model that suits you, but always take into account your pool and its volume of water so that the filtration system is efficient and adapted to your needs.
The different filter systems, their advantages and disadvantages
Your filtration device may be equipped with several types of filters, each of which has advantages and disadvantages.
The diatom filter
Diatoms are microscopic algae with a siliceous envelope. Placed on a textile, they filter the pool water with a very high performance, that is to say between 2 and 5 microns. It is therefore the most efficient filter, because it retains all the particles due to its constitution in powder form. Count at least 1,000 euros for this very effective filter.
Advantages :
- It is the most effective filter.
- Natural, it provides high quality water.
Disadvantages:
- Since diatoms retain more dirt, the filter must be cleaned more often to avoid clogging.
- This type of filter is only suitable for water flows below 5 m3/h, because the filtration takes longer. With a higher flow rate, the filter clogs up too quickly.
- Its price is very high.
The zeolite filter
The zeolite filter is made of a volcanic mineral powder which captures fine particles well, in particular certain toxic elements such as dioxin and ammonia. Count around 300 euros for this type of filter.
Advantages :
- The zeolite allows a filtration of the particles to 5 microns.
- This filter retains certain toxic elements, which allows bathing in healthier water.
- It offers good value for money.
Inconvenience :
- Zeolite is not compatible with most flocculants when treated with this type of product.
- Clogging is limited thanks to backwashing.
- It is compatible with flocculants.
The recycled polished glass filter
Polished glass offers an average filtration average of 15 microns. More durable than the sand filter, it is self-sterile, which allows it to eliminate certain chemical components, including chloramines. Count around 250 euros for this model.
Advantages :
Inconvenience :
- Its efficiency is average, with 15 microns of filtration fineness. But by combining it with a flocculant, it filters down to 5 microns.
- The filter is easily cleaned with a brush and a garden hose.
- A cartridge has a lifespan of approximately 1,000 hours. Just replace it once worn out.
The cartridge filter
The cartridge filter has a filtration fineness of 15 microns and its efficiency is average. It consists of vegetable fibers or synthetic fibers. The tighter these are, the higher the efficiency. These fibers are contained in replaceable cartridges, which makes it possible not to change the entire device if necessary. It costs around 100 euros.
Advantages :
Disadvantages:
- It is mainly suitable for small pools with low-calcareous water.
- The cleaning operation is simple, but it takes time. Having another cartridge on hand is often preferable.
The sand filter
The sand filter is very widespread, but it is nevertheless the least effective since its fineness of filtration is 40 microns. It consists of two layers of various sands of varying sizes in order to retain several types of impurities. It costs on average 80 euros.
Advantages :
- The sand filter is durable since it remains effective for 7 to 8 years.
- It is easy to maintain.
- Its low price is attractive.
Disadvantages:
- It is the least effective filter on the market.
- It must be replaced by a professional, which entails additional costs.
- Over time, the sand hardens and clogs, reducing its effectiveness.