The different options of filter media and their advantages and disadvantages
Maintaining a pool means more than just refilling water. Choosing the right filter media is essential to ensuring your pool water stays crystal clear. But with so many types of filter media available-from traditional filter sand to high-tech glass beads-it can be difficult to determine which is best for your pool.
Here we discuss the most commonly used filter media, the advantages and disadvantages of each type, and what to look out for when filling a sand filter.
Filter Sand
What is filter sand and how does it work?
Filter sand is the traditional filter medium that has been used in most pool filters for decades. It works by trapping dirt particles as water flows through the grains of sand. Filter sand is readily available and easy to use, making it a popular choice.
Lifetime and replacement
Filter sand lasts 4 to 5 years, depending on how intensively the pool is used and how often you clean the filter. After this period, the filtration capacity decreases because the sand grains are slowly worn down and become saturated with dirt.
Advantages
- Low acquisition cost.
- Easy to obtain and use.
- Suitable for most sand filters.
Cons
- Less effective compared to modern alternatives, such as filter glass.
- Requires regular replacement and maintenance.
Filter glass
What is filter glass and how does it work?
Filter glass is a modern alternative to filter sand made from recycled glass. It offers higher filtration precision and removes even the smallest dirt particles from the water. In addition, filter glass is easier to clean through its backwash function.
Lifetime and replacement
One of the biggest advantages of filter glass is its longer lifespan of 10 to 15 years. You also need about 15% less filter glass compared to sand.
Advantages
- Higher filtration quality.
- Longevity.
- Less maintenance required.
- Suitable for all types of sand filters.
Cons
- Higher initial cost compared to filter sand.
Glass Beads
What are glass beads and how do they work?
Glass beads, such as VitroSphere nano, are small spherical beads made of glass. They are designed to provide ultra-fine filtration and are a premium option for pool water treatment. Due to the high purity of the material, glass beads remain free of bacteria formation, making them more hygienic.
Lifetime and replacement
Glass beads theoretically last a lifetime if properly maintained. However, they are not suitable for cheaper filters such as those from brands like Intex or Bestway.
Advantages
- Lifetime durability.
- Superior filtration precision.
- More hygienic thanks to bacteria-resistant properties.
Cons
- Not compatible with all filters.
- More expensive to purchase.
Filter balls
What are filter balls and how do they work?
Filter balls, such as Bestway Flowclear Polyspheres, are made of polyethylene and are an innovative alternative to sand and glass. Thanks to their flexibility and lightweight material, filter balls can effectively trap dirt particles.
Lifetime and replacement
The life span of filter balls varies between 2 and 4 years. They are ideal for smaller pool filters, especially for set-up pools.
Advantages
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Ideal for small and portable pools.
- Easy to rinse clean and use again.
Cons
- Shorter lifespan compared to other filter media.
- Less suitable for large pools or heavy filtration systems.
Activated Filter Media (AFM NG).
What is AFM NG and how does it work?
AFM NG (Activated Filter Media) is an advanced type of filter glass designed for superior performance. Thanks to a unique activation procedure, AFM NG filters much better than standard filter glass and prevents the growth of microorganisms.
Lifetime and replacement
AFM NG, like filter glass, can last 10 to 15 years if properly used and maintained.
Advantages
- Excellent filtration qualities.
- Prevents bacterial growth in the filter.
- Long service life and low maintenance costs.
Cons
- Higher cost compared to standard filter glass.
Hi-tech filter glass
What is hi-tech filter glass and how does it work?
Hi-tech filter glass, such as products made from new glass with a purity of 99.99%, is the latest development in filter media. It offers the highest filtration precision and reduces chemical use by up to 30%.
Lifetime and replacement
With exceptional durability, hi-tech filter glass lasts a lifetime, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Advantages
- High purity and filtration precision.
- Reduction of chemicals in pool water.
- Lifetime durability.
Cons
- Highest initial cost of all filter media.
How to correctly fill a sand filter?
Filling your sand filter correctly is crucial for optimal performance. Here are a few key steps:
- Check the center pipe - Make sure it is correctly centered before you begin.
- Fill with water - Fill the bottom of the filter tank with water to prevent the filter media from damaging the filter candles.
- Distribution of media - Spread the media evenly and fill to the appropriate level (for example, a mix of fine and coarse at over 100 kg).
- Use Rinse function - Rinse the new filter media with a backwash cycle before filtering the pool water.
Choose the best filter media for your pool
Each filter media has its unique benefits and applications. Choose the option that best suits your needs.
