Cartridge vs. Sand vs. DE: Choosing the Right Pool Filter

Professional Pool Company — Understanding Your Pool’s Filtration Options

Your pool’s filter is responsible for keeping the water clean, clear, and safe by removing dirt, debris, and microscopic particles. In Central Florida, the three main filter types used in residential pools are cartridge filters, sand filters, and DE (diatomaceous earth) filters.

This guide explains how each system works, their pros and cons, and why Professional Pool Company recommends cartridge filtration for most new pools.

⭐ 1. Cartridge Filters (Recommended for Most Pools)

A cartridge filter uses pleated fabric elements to trap debris as water passes through. These filters are the standard choice for modern Florida pools.

How It Works

Water flows through a large cartridge element that captures fine debris without needing sand or media.

Best For

• Most new pools in Central Florida
• Salt systems
• Low-maintenance homeowners
• Screened or unscreened yards

Advantages

✔ Filters very fine particles (10–20 microns)

✔ No backwashing required (saves water)

✔ Low maintenance — clean 1–2 times per year

✔ Quiet and efficient

✔ Works extremely well with variable-speed pumps

Disadvantages

✘ Must be manually cleaned

✘ Cartridge replacement every 2–5 years

Summary

Cartridge filters provide the best combination of water clarity, low maintenance, and efficiency, making them the modern standard.

⭐ 2. Sand Filters

A sand filter traps debris as water passes through a bed of filter-grade sand.

How It Works

Water flows downward through sand; particles get trapped between sand grains.

Best For

• Older pool systems
• Budget-focused installations
• Heavy debris environments

Advantages

✔ Lowest upfront cost

✔ Easy to use

✔ Quick backwashing

Disadvantages

✘ Least effective filtration (25–50 microns)

✘ Requires frequent backwashing (wastes water)

✘ Lower clarity compared to cartridge or DE

✘ Poor efficiency with variable-speed pumps

✘ Sand must be changed every 3–5 years

Summary

Sand filters work, but they provide the lowest water clarity and require the most water waste due to backwashing.

⭐ 3. DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters

DE filters provide the finest filtration but require the most maintenance.

How It Works

A powdered material called DE coats internal grids; it captures extremely fine particles.

Best For

• Pools needing extremely high clarity
• Older pools using legacy systems

Advantages

✔ Highest-quality filtration (2–5 microns)

✔ Exceptional clarity

Disadvantages

✘ Highest maintenance

✘ Requires regular DE powder replacement

✘ Backwashes frequently

✘ Environmental restrictions on DE disposal

✘ Most complex to clean

✘ Not ideal for salt systems

✘ Higher long-term cost

Summary

DE filters produce great water clarity but require significant maintenance and are being phased out in many areas due to environmental concerns.

⭐ 4. What Professional Pool Company Recommends

For 98% of Central Florida homeowners, the best filter system is:

✔ Cartridge Filter (Oversized)

We size filters larger than minimum requirements, which offers:

• Better water clarity
• Less frequent cleanings
• Lower pressure
• Longer filter lifespan
• Optimal performance for variable-speed pumps
• Minimal maintenance

Sand and DE filters work, but cartridge filtration is more efficient, cleaner, and easier to maintain.

⭐ 5. Quick Comparison Chart

⭐ Which Filter Should You Choose?

Best All-Around Choice:

➡ Cartridge Filter

Lowest Initial Cost (but lowest clarity):

➡ Sand Filter

Highest Clarity but Highest Maintenance:

➡ DE Filter

We evaluate:

• Pool size
• Plumbing
• Pump type
• Yard conditions
• Maintenance preferences

…to choose the perfect system for your home.

⭐ Need Help Choosing Your Filter System?

We size your filtration system according to engineering and hydraulic needs — not sales pressure.

👉 Ask us which filter is best for your pool.

Updated on: 28/11/2025