Swimming Pool Filter Media

The most popular media and industry standard is silica sand, capturing particles up to 20 microns and larger.

Sand grains have rough edges which grab contaminants/debris that passes through the filter.

Over the years the rough edges are worn down by erosion, eventually becoming smooth and unable to capture debris, whilst particles trapped within the sand build up over time, which help trap smaller particles, even as the sand erosion takes place. But in time this process prevents proper water flow through the filter, reducing efficiency.

The pressure gauge alerts you to the increasing internal pressure. in other words it's time to backwash your filter reversing the water flow, and flushing debris to waste. Using flocculants can further improve performance.

Pros

• Cheaper cost
• Far easier maintenance
• Sand lasts 3-5 yrs before changing

Cons

• 20-micron filtration gives the least effective cleaning
• Water wastage through backwashing and rinsing
• Increasing pressure decreases efficiency

ZeoSand

You can replace your sand with zeolite without modifying your installation. Made from a mineral called zeolite, a mineral of volcanic origin.. Normally (check manufacturer's info) you require half as much (by weight ) as sand.

Due to its crystal-like shape, it traps smaller contaminants than sand, improving clarity and a bonus of less frequent backwashing hence less water wastage. Its use and maintenance are identical to sand applications, and the two substances can also be combined.

Pros

Under correct conditions, the chemical reduction will be achieved along with water-saving, power cost and less maintenance. High ammonia removal (average 2.8gm/lt.) Dependent on the flow rate. Ion removal efficiency is high. Far greater surface area than sand. Removes odour. Longevity 5 - 7 years. Turbidity?

Cons

Substantially more expensive too

Filter Glass

Recycled finely crushed glass which has a negative electrical charge attracting positively charged particles, such as iron and manganese. Once again you use about 20% less filter glass than you would with sand, it filters debris as minute as 5 microns, whilst lasting up to three times.

Overview

If in doubt stick with sand - it gives excellent results, at a low cost and with the minimum of maintenance.

New on the block

New to the market and making a big splash is OC-1 Filtration Media, click the link as this page says it all.....