Removable pool filtration

To size the filtration system, you need to know the pool’s water volume and determine the flow rate needed to achieve adequate recirculation.

In addition to volume, you must take into account the pump flow rate, the filter’s characteristics, pressure losses in the installation, and how the pool is used. The pump and filter must be correctly sized for each other: installing a pump that is too powerful for the filter can impair the system’s operation.

If you have any doubts, always compare the nominal flow rate recommended by the manufacturer before choosing the equipment.

Sand filters are widely used in pools because they can handle high flow rates and allow the filter medium to be cleaned by backwashing.

Cartridge filters use removable filter elements that are cleaned or replaced periodically and normally do not require backwashing. This can be useful when you want to reduce the amount of water used during maintenance.

The best option will depend on the pool size, available installation, required flow rate, and the maintenance frequency you prefer.

Both can be good options when they are compatible with the filter.

Silica sand is the traditional filter medium and provides a simple, widely used solution. Filter glass has different characteristics depending on its composition, grain size, and manufacturer, and may offer maintenance and filtration benefits.

We do not recommend choosing solely based on generic claims about water savings or service life. Check the quantity, grain size, and type of filter medium accepted by your filter before replacing the sand.

A monoblock or filtration unit combines the main components needed to circulate and filter the water in a single piece of equipment, normally a pump and filter, together with the corresponding system components.

It is a particularly practical solution for above-ground pools and certain small or medium-sized pools, as it simplifies the choice of components and takes up relatively little space.

To choose one correctly, check the recommended pool volume, the unit’s flow rate, connections, and installation characteristics.

Backwashing should be carried out when the filter needs it, not simply because a certain number of days have passed.

One of the main indicators is the pressure gauge: when the pressure increases compared with the normal pressure of the clean filter, this may indicate that dirt has accumulated in the filter medium.

The exact point at which backwashing should be carried out depends on the filter, so you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions. After backwashing, carry out the rinsing procedure when required by the valve and equipment.

Many pool filters and pumps can operate in installations with salt electrolysis, but compatibility must be checked for each piece of equipment.

Before buying, check the materials, seals, metal components, and salinity conditions permitted by the manufacturer.

You should not assume that equipment is compatible with salt water simply because it belongs to a particular brand or product range.

Maintenance depends on the type of filter and pump installed. As a general routine, it is advisable to clean the skimmer and pump pre-filter baskets, check the pressure gauge, and periodically inspect the flow rate and condition of the system.

For sand or glass filters, backwash when necessary and periodically check the condition of the filter medium. For cartridge filters, clean the elements according to the manufacturer’s instructions and replace them when their condition or performance requires it.

There is no universal interval for replacing sand, glass, or cartridges: their service life depends on the product, water quality, usage, and maintenance.

Not necessarily. A more powerful pump does not guarantee better filtration.

The pump’s flow rate must be compatible with the flow rate accepted by the filter and with the hydraulic characteristics of the installation. Excessive flow can reduce filtration quality and subject the equipment to unsuitable operating conditions.

Therefore, when replacing a pump or filter, it is important to check both components as a unit.

The filter size should not be selected solely based on the pool’s cubic meters. You must also consider the filtration flow rate, filtration speed, installed pump, and hydraulic characteristics of the circuit.

Even two filters with the same diameter may have different characteristics depending on their design.

Consult the manufacturer’s technical specifications and make sure the filter can operate correctly with the actual flow rate of your installation.

When the filter retains dirt, resistance to water flow increases, and the pressure indicated by the pressure gauge may rise compared with its usual value when the filter is clean.

In a sand filter, an increase in pressure may indicate that it is time to backwash. However, an abnormal reading may also be related to other circulation problems.

The most useful approach is to know the normal operating pressure of your installation when the filter is clean and use it as a reference.