Pool Filters

D.E. or diatomaceous earth consists of microscopic fossilized remains of hard-shelled algae. It is a fine white powder that is used to line the inside of a D.E. filter where it can capture dirt, some bacteria, body oil, sunscreen and anything else that may be floating in your pool.

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First of all, a D.E. filter removes particles as small as 3 microns, which means it can sift out particles and clear up water quicker than any other filter type. Purchasing the D.E. that coats the inside of the filter is also relatively inexpensive compared to replacing a cartridge in a filter. A D.E. filter is the filter of choice for most pool service professionals in Southern California.

A downside to a D.E. filter is that it requires regular backwashing. Backwashing is the process where the flow of water is reversed in the pool filtration system so that all the material that has gathered on filter grids can now be flushed into the sewage system. If your filter is not tied into the sewage system, then most cities and county agencies in Southern California will not allow you to install a D.E. filter.

Another benefit to a D.E. filter is that it can be backwashed. Backwashing is the process where the flow of water is reversed in the pool filtration system so that some of the material that has gathered on filter grids can now be flushed into the sewage system.

A downside to a D.E. filter is that if your filter is not tied into the sewage system, then most cities and county agencies in Southern California will not allow you to install a D.E. filter.

Alan Smith Pool Plastering & Remodeling|Pool Filters

These filters don’t require as much water to clean as D.E. filters do. The cartridges can simply take out of the filter, then rinsed off and reinstalled once or twice per year. They can save energy as well since they work best when water flows through them at low pump speeds.

Since they do not filter particles as small as a D.E. filter, the water won’t be as clear as with a D.E. filter. The cartridges also need to replaced every few years which