In the world of pool filtration, sand filters have always been the go-to for simplicity and reliability. You put sand in, backwash the filter once a week, and change the sand every 5-15 years. Pretty easy! As the industry has evolved, so has the filter media available for sand filters. So, what are the benefits to all of these different medias and how do you choose?
First, let’s talk about micron ratings. What is it and why is it so important when it comes to filtration? The dirt and debris in your pool water are measured in microns, which is one millionth of a meter. 1 millimeter is equal to 1000 microns. The lower the micron rating when it comes to filter media, the better. Here are some examples of common pool contaminates and their micron size:
~1-10 Microns: Bacteria
~0.5-100 Microns: Dust Particles
~17-181 Microns: Human Hair
~25 Microns: Flower and Tree Pollen
~50-500 Microns: Organic Human Contaminates (feces, yes, even in your pool!)
To keep your pool water clear and sanitized, you want to pick a media for your sand filter that has the best micron ratings. Now let’s go over the different media options:
Sand:
Of course, our first media will be the original. #20 silica sand, which is the recommended type of sand to use, can offer filtration down to 20-40 microns. This has the highest micron rating offered for sand filter media, but will still keep your pool clean. It can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance, but will start to decrease in filtration efficiency after 3-5 years.
Pros of sand media: long lasting, simple maintenance, affordable, industry trusted
Cons of sand media: Heavy, higher micron rating, not easily recyclable, requires weekly backwashing which can waste water and effect the chemical levels in your pool, wears down over time from fast moving water reducing efficiency and increasing micron rating, generates harmful dusts that should not be inhaled
Glass Media:
Glass media, such as Brightline, provides filtration down to 5 microns, providing up to 25% more clarity over traditional sand media. The product can reduce backwash requirements, saving on loss of pool water and chemicals. You can use 20% less of this media by weight than traditional #20 silica sand and glass media can last up to 10 years.
Pros of glass media: better micron rating than sand, more efficient backwashing, lasts longer than traditional sand, made from recycled materials
Cons of glass media: More expensive than traditional sand, wears down over time from fast moving water reducing efficiency and increasing micron rating, generates harmful dusts that should not be inhaled
Zeolite:
Zeolite media, such as ZeoBrite, is an all-natural mineral found in volcanic rock that provides filtrations down to 3 microns, similar to diatomaceous earth (D.E. powder). This product can reduce backwashing requirements by 50% and help control chloramines in the water (that classic chlorine smell). 25 pounds of this product is equal to 50 pounds of traditional #20 silica sand. This product can lasts 4-6 years, but it is recommended to replace after 5 years.
Pros of zeolite media: has the best micron rating out of all of the sand alternative media options, weights half as much as traditional sand, saves on water and chemicals by reducing backwashing requirements
Cons of zeolite media: More expensive than traditional sand, only lasts about 5 years, not easily recyclable, wears down over time from fast moving water reducing efficiency and increasing micron rating, generates harmful dusts that should not be inhaled
Filter Balls:
Filter Balls are the newest media addition for sand filters. With a 1 pound bag equaling 100 pounds of sand, it is by far the lightest sand alternative media on the market. Filter balls provide filtration down to 5-15 microns, making it far better at filtration than traditional silica sand. Filter balls can hold much more dirt and debris than sand, meaning you will not have to backwash nearly as often. Because filter balls are made of a cotton-like material, it allows better water flow and reduces pressure making your pump more efficient. Filter Balls can last 3-5 years and are 100% recyclable! Even better, they aren’t expensive, costing almost the same as replacing silica sand.
Pros of Filter Balls: Ultra light weight, low micron rating, requires less backwashing, allows better water flow helping pump efficiency, 100% recyclable, does not generate any harmful dusts or other environmental threats
Cons of filter balls: does not last as long as other sand filter medias
In conclusion, a good filter media is only as good as the maintenance the pool receives. If you clean/vacuum your pool often, keep the chemicals balanced and backwash your filter when you notice the pressure rising, any of the media options would be totally okay. When it comes time to replace the media in your sand filter, just know that you aren’t stuck replacing the old sand with the same #20 silica sand. There are options you can choose to increase filtration, reduce backwash cycle requirements and potentially save you money in the long run!
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