Every pool owner should take the utmost care in keeping their pool clean and safe, as this means enjoying and maintaining good health in the pool. This requires an effective water filtration system as the foundation for producing clean, drinkable water. Sand has been the most popular filter material in swimming pool filters for many years, as it is highly effective at removing debris and other contaminants that can degrade water quality.
However, with the advancements in filtration technology in recent years, swimming pool filter balls have emerged as a more modern and efficient alternative to traditional filtration methods. But how do these new swimming pool filter balls compare to the popular traditional sand filter? Let’s take an in-depth comparison of swimming pool filter balls and sand, and learn which is the best choice for maintaining the cleanliness and quality of your swimming pool.
What is a swimming pool filter ball?
Swimming pool filter balls are made from a special material, polyethylene plastic, which is durable and highly efficient. They are a new innovation in swimming pool filtration, capturing all types of dirt and debris. While traditional sand filters rely primarily on gravity to filter out impure and unwanted materials and debris from the water, swimming pool filter balls’ delicate fibers create a tight layer that allows the flowing water to capture contaminants.
Most people appreciate swimming pool filter balls for their durability, with some even lasting for multiple seasons. With such durability, they’re a worthwhile investment in maintaining the cleanliness and overall condition of your pool.
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What is filter sand?
Sand filters, or silica sand, have been part of swimming pool filtration systems for decades. The sand sits inside the sand filter and acts as a barrier through which water passes, trapping coarser particles. These filters typically require periodic and frequent backwashing, with sand changes typically performed every three to five years, depending on usage. Although relatively inexpensive, sand is expensive to operate, requiring regular maintenance.
Swimming pool filter balls vs. sand as a filter media
Filtration efficiency
With their significant numbers and designs, swimming pool filter balls are more than capable of capturing small particles, sometimes as small as 1.5 microns. This type of cleaning results in professionally cleaned, high-quality pool water, and the resulting water is impressively clear.
On the other hand, sand is a classic filter media that usually captures particles down to 20 microns, allowing many of them to swim freely in the water. For people and pool owners who dream of crystal-clear water quality, swimming pool filter balls guarantee a much better filtration quality than sand.
Easy to use and maintain
Some of the advantages of using sand filters include handling. Being much lighter than standard sand, the installation process is simpler and more environmentally friendly. Unlike sand, which generates a lot of dust during installation, filter balls eliminate dust and allow for cleaner operation. While sand requires frequent backwashing to remove clogging for efficiency, filter balls are designed to minimize clogging, minimizing the number of backwashes required. Filter balls are easy to clean and can be rinsed with water or machine washed for convenience, extending their life.
Durability and reusability
If properly cared for, these balls will last for years. They are resistant to the wear and tear caused by the chemicals used in swimming pools, resulting in a longer lifespan. Traditional sand filters used in the past had a very short lifespan because they deteriorated relatively quickly. Continuous use of sand filters causes them to wear and compact, reducing their efficiency. Filter balls are resistant to compaction, so they retain their shape and work more efficiently for a longer period of time.
Environmental impact
Reducing the amount of backwashing required for pool filter balls makes them ideal for conserving water. While they’re good for your utility bill, they’re also good for the environment. Reusing these filter balls further reduces waste, in addition to the fact that they’re not as replaceable as traditional sand filters, which are typically disposed of every few years.
Value for money and good value
While the initial cost of swimming pool filter balls may be higher than that of sand, they generally last longer and are highly efficient, which pays off in the long run. Less backwashing not only significantly saves on these precious resources, but also significantly reduces electricity costs. The reusability of filter balls also reduces the cost of replacing them. All told, filter balls are one of the most economical options for pool owners.
Benefits of swimming pool filter balls compared to sand
- Improved filtration efficiency : This ensures that even the smallest particles are effectively captured, leaving the water noticeably cleaner and purer.
- Less clogging : This allows the filter to pass directly through, significantly reducing backwashing.
- Environmental protection : It is the release of environmental pollution by using only a small amount of water, resulting in the least amount of waste.
- Easy Handling : It is lightweight and easy to handle, making installation more convenient as there is no need to lift heavy objects.
- Chemical Resistance : Chemicals used in swimming pools cannot degrade the filter, extending its lifespan.
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Possible disadvantages of using swimming pool filter balls
While pool filter balls offer many advantages that can improve the overall efficiency of your pool filter system, there are a few important things to consider before deciding to replace them. First, some older water filtration systems are optimized for sand, which may mean changes are necessary to make them work effectively with the balls. Another important point to note is that since filter cartridges have only recently been introduced to the market, some users may be hesitant or unwilling to ditch their traditional sand filters as they are already accustomed to the design and find it more comfortable.
summarize
While sand still has a place in a pool filter system and performs just as well as a pool filter ball, for those looking for high performance, maximum convenience, and environmentally friendly operation, a filter ball far surpasses that comparison.
With their incredibly long lifespan, excellent resistance to clogging, and excellent practical filtration capabilities, swimming pool filter balls are the modern way to keep your pool crystal clear and clean. However, for those who stick to tradition, water permeability is a reliable option. Ultimately, this will depend on the specific needs, budget, and maintenance preferences considered for their pool.
