Best Pool Filter System
What Is the Best Pool Filter System?
Choosing the best pool filter system is one of the most important decisions you can make for your swimming pool. Your pool’s filtration system plays a major role in water clarity, sanitation, maintenance requirements, and overall swimming experience.
The best pool filter system depends on your pool size, maintenance preferences, and long term goals, but for many homeowners, cartridge filtration systems offer the best balance of efficiency, ease of maintenance, and water quality.
At Apricity Pools, we help homeowners select pool equipment that keeps water cleaner, simplifies maintenance, and improves overall performance.
How Does a Pool Filtration System Work?
A pool filtration system continuously circulates water through multiple components that work together to keep the pool clean and properly sanitized.
A complete pool system typically includes:
- • Skimmers
• Main drain
• Pump
• Filter
• Sanitization system
• Water return lines
Each component plays a critical role in maintaining healthy, clear water.
Pool Skimmers
A skimmer is a surface level intake that uses suction to remove floating debris such as:
- Leaves
• Bugs
• Dirt
• Pollen
The debris collects inside a removable basket that should be emptied regularly to maintain proper water flow and circulation.
Skimmers help prevent debris from sinking to the bottom of the pool and entering the filtration system unnecessarily.
Main Drain
The main drain is located at the deepest point of the pool and serves as the primary outlet for water circulation.
The drain:
- • Pulls water into the filtration system
• Improves circulation throughout the pool
• Helps distribute chemicals evenly
• Assists with debris removal
Modern pool drains include safety grates and antivortex covers designed to prevent entrapment.
Pool Pumps
The pump acts as the heart of the pool system by moving water continuously through the equipment.
The pump:
- • Pulls water from the skimmers and drains
• Pushes water through the filter
• Returns clean water back into the pool
Energy efficient variable speed pumps are now considered the industry standard because they:
- • Reduce energy costs
• Run quieter
• Improve circulation efficiency
• Extend equipment lifespan
Apricity Pools partners with Pentair, known for advanced energy efficient pool equipment technology.
What Are the Different Types of Pool Filters?
There are three primary types of swimming pool filters:
Cartridge Filters
Cartridge filters use a pleated filtration element to trap dirt and debris.
Benefits include:
- • Excellent water clarity
• Lower maintenance requirements
• No backwashing needed
• Water conservation
• Energy efficiency
Cartridge filters are often considered the most user friendly option for residential pools and are the primary filtration system recommended by Apricity Pools.
Sand Filters
Sand filters use specially graded sand to trap debris as water passes through the tank.
Advantages include:
- • Simplicity
• Durability
• Lower upfront cost
However, sand filters typically require backwashing and may not filter particles as finely as cartridge systems.
D.E. Filters
Diatomaceous earth, or D.E., filters use a fine powder made from fossilized algae to capture extremely small particles.
Benefits include:
- • Exceptional water clarity
• Very fine filtration capability
However, D.E. systems usually require more maintenance and more complex cleaning procedures.
What Is the Best Pool Filter System Overall?
For many homeowners, cartridge filtration systems offer the best overall combination of:
- • Water clarity
• Ease of maintenance
• Energy efficiency
• Lower water waste
• Simpler operation
Cartridge filters are especially popular for modern residential pools because they provide strong filtration performance without the frequent backwashing required by other systems.
Additional Pool Cleaning and Sanitizing Systems
Modern pools often include supplemental systems that improve water quality and reduce maintenance.
In Floor Cleaning Systems
An in floor cleaning system uses pop up jets embedded in the pool floor to circulate water and push debris toward drains and collection areas.
Benefits include:
- • Automated cleaning
• Improved circulation
• Reduced manual vacuuming
• Cleaner pool floors
Saltwater Chlorination Systems
Salt systems convert dissolved salt into chlorine through electrolysis.
Advantages include:
- • Softer feeling water
• Automated sanitation
• Reduced chlorine handling
• More consistent chlorine levels
Saltwater pools remain one of the most popular upgrades among homeowners.
Ozone Systems
Ozone oxidizers provide supplemental sanitation by using ozone gas to kill bacteria, algae, and contaminants.
These systems can help:
- • Reduce chlorine demand
• Improve water quality
• Minimize chemical odors
• Enhance swimmer comfort
Automatic Water Levelers
An automatic water leveler maintains a consistent pool water level automatically.
This helps:
• Protect the pump
• Improve skimmer performance
• Prevent circulation issues
• Reduce manual maintenance
Final Thoughts
The best pool filter system is one that balances water quality, maintenance needs, energy efficiency, and long term reliability. While sand and D.E. filters remain effective options, cartridge filtration systems are often the preferred choice for homeowners looking for a cleaner, simpler, and more efficient pool ownership experience.
When designing a custom swimming pool, selecting the right equipment package can make a major difference in maintenance, operating costs, and overall enjoyment for years to come.
Start Designing Your Backyard Escape
Whether you are building a new swimming pool or upgrading your current equipment, the right filtration and sanitation system can help keep your water crystal clear and ready to enjoy year round.