Everyone wants to swim in a clean pool that's free of dirt and debris. But it takes a reliable pool filter - and a bit of effort - to keep your pool in tip-top shape. With so many different types and styles of pool filters out there, how do you know which one is best for your pool? And once you have it, how do you maintain it so it keeps functioning as it's designed?
There are three main types of pool filters: sand, DE (diatomaceous earth), and cartridge filters. Let's dive into each filter type and the parts that allow it to clean your pool so well. But first, why should you choose a Hayward pool product?
Why Hayward Pool Filters?
Hayward pool products are made by dedicated and experienced professionals in the United States. Each pool filter is created with durable and reliable products that are easy to use and last a long time. When you purchase a Hayward pool filter, you know you're getting a top-of-the-line filtration system.
When it comes to repairing or replacing your filter parts, Hayward makes troubleshooting and maintenance easy and pain-free so you can get back to doing what you want to do - enjoying your pool.
Types of Hayward Pool Filters
Not all pool filters are designed to work the same way, even within a brand. While these products do the same job, they each function differently and in ways specific to your type and size of pool.
Since each unit is designed differently, the operations, pool cleaner parts, and repairs of these products will also look different.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filter
DE or diatomaceous earth filters are among the most popular and efficient filtration systems for aboveground and in-ground residential pools. Hayward provides these filters for anyone with pools between 36 and 72 square feet of filtration needs.
Diatomaceous earth is a special finely ground fossil that filters water and removes small debris before transferring clean water back into the pool. These products are typically cheaper and easier to use than other options but require more maintenance.
Cartridge Filter
Cartridge filters are extremely energy efficient, with long cleaning cycles and amazing filtration capabilities. They do not require frequent backwashing and do not have a backwash valve, reducing the amount of energy they consume while running.
Hayward offers cartridge filters for any size pool ranging from 25 to 7000 square feet of filtration area.
Sand Filter
Sand filters are another popular option for residential pool owners. As you might expect, sand filters use sand to filter pool water. The sand particles capture and hold dirt and debris as the water flows through the canister, releasing clean water back into the pool.
Sand filters require some maintenance but work well for most pools, and Hayward sells options that are suitable for all sizes and styles of pool.
Hayward Filter Parts and Maintenance
Every part of the pool filter, big or small, is essential to the process and does its part to ensure your pool stays clean and debris-free. While each filter is a little different and may have unique pieces, they all have similar main working parts.
Filter Tank
The filter tank is traditionally the largest and most noticeable pool filter part. It stores the filter medium and is the home base for the rest of the unit. While the size of each filter will differ depending on the type you purchase, the pool you have, and the cleaning ability required, sand filters are often the bulkiest.
Hayward offers some fantastic sand filters that will tackle any size pool, such as the Hayward ProSeries™ 31" Sand Filter w/ 2" Valve.
Filter Grids and Mediums
The most important part of a pool filter is the materials used to separate debris from the water flowing through the unit and back into your pool. Each filter uses a different medium to get the job done.
- DE filters: DE filters use diatomaceous earth attached to grids that line the tank's filter. When the filters fill up with debris, you must use the backwash valve to clear out the medium and then add clean product back into the unit.
- Sand filters: Sand filters use natural sand (for example, zeolite, glass, or silica). Like DE filters, sand filters must be cleaned regularly through backwashing in order to work properly. However, the sand in most units only needs to be replaced every 3-4 years.
- Cartridge filters: Cartridge filters are the simplest, using basic filter material to remove debris. When the filters get clogged, you can clean them out by washing the pleats. Most filters will need to be replaced on an annual basis, depending on the pool's use and the amount of debris in it.
Each of these filters need to be cleaned and cleared out regularly to keep the system working efficiently.
Pool Pump
Along with a filter, pools also have a pump. This pump circulates the water, pulls it into the filter, and pushes it back into the pool or spa. Monitoring your pump to ensure it is always working correctly is vital. If you find the pressure of your return valves dropping, the filter probably needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Valves and Gauges
Valves and gauges help you to clean the filter tank and monitor pressure. The filter must be cleaned if the gauge indicates the pressure is too high.
The valves allow you to control the water flow of the filter. They can also be used to backwash DE and sand filter units.
Check your valves regularly to ensure they are not leaking or wearing out. These parts are easy to fix but can cause additional damage if left unattended for too long.
Drain Plugs
The drain plug works exactly as it sounds; it drains and empties the filter, typically for maintenance and repair purposes.
Replacing Hayward Pool Filter Parts
Now that you know what each filter does and how to keep it running smoothly, you will want to know where to purchase replacement parts and filter supplies.
The best stores to shop at are the ones that offer Hayward filter parts at an affordable price. Online stores like PoolProductsCanada.ca stock top-of-the-line replacement parts for your pool filter and have knowledgeable, friendly staff who can help you find exactly what you need for the filter model you have.
Contact us, and we'll be happy to answer any questions you have!