💧 Sand or cartridge pool filter: which one to choose?
Is a sand filter or a cartridge filter better for your pool? Discover the advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive comparison to help you choose the right one.
Choosing the right filtration system is essential to ensure clean, clear, and easy-to-maintain water . Two of the most popular options are the sand filter and the cartridge filter . But which one is best for your pool?
Here is a clear comparison to help you make the right choice based on your budget, your type of pool and your maintenance habits.
🏖️ Sand pool filter: simple and robust
✅ Advantages
-Easy to maintain : a simple backwash is enough to clean the filter.
-Sand life span : 3 to 5 years before needing to be replaced.
-Ideal for large pools : manages a high volume of water efficiently.
-Reasonable purchase cost .
❌ Disadvantages
-Less precise than the cartridge: retains particles at approximately 30-50 microns .
-Uses more water (during backwash).
-Requires connection to a drain.
🧼 Cartridge pool filter: precision and water saving
✅ Advantages
-Finer filtration : retains particles down to 10-20 microns .
-Water saving : no backwash, therefore no water loss.
-Compact and quiet : ideal for small pools or spas.
-Easy to install and move .
❌ Disadvantages
-Manual maintenance: cartridges must be removed and cleaned regularly .
-Must be replaced every 1 to 3 years depending on usage.-
-Less efficient for large volumes of water.
⚖️ Quick Comparison – Sand Filter vs Cartridge
| Criteria | Sand filter | Cartridge filter |
|---|---|---|
| Filtration quality | 30 to 50 microns | 10 to 20 microns |
| Interview | Automatic backwash | Manual cleaning |
| Water saving | ❌ (water loss during rinsing) | ✅ (no backwash) |
| Maintenance cost | Low (sand 3-5 years) | Medium (1-3 year cartridge) |
| Ideal for | Large swimming pools | Small pools / spas |
🎯 Which filter should you choose for your swimming pool?
-Choose a sand filter if you are looking for robustness, ease of maintenance and you have a large pool .
-Opt for a cartridge filter if you want finer filtration , save water , and your pond is smaller or moderate in volume .
📍 At Piscines Geyser , we offer both types of filters with advice tailored to your installation. Our team can guide you according to your treatment system (salt, chlorine, etc.).
