Pool Filter Size Calculator

Common Filter Media Rate
High-Rate Sand: 5 - 20 gpm/ft2
Cartridge: 0.375 gpm/ft2
Diatomaceous Earth(DE): 2 gpm/ft2

It is always recommended to oversize the pool filter. Adequate filtration is the primary source of clean clear pool water. An undersized filter can lead to numerous problems, including cloudy pool water, increased chemical demands, pH swings, and unsafe swimming pool water.

Maximum pump gpm must be used when calculating the minimum required filter area. Exceeding the filter media rate will result in many negative effects to the equipment and poor pool water quality.

Cartridge Filter Media:

Pool cartridge filters clean down to the 10-15 micron range. Replacement and maintenance are easier compared to a sand filter. There is no need for backwashing, cartridge filters are easily removed and cleaned or just replaced. These filters reduce energy cost by the reduced pressure required to operate. Saving on energy and equipment use.

Cartridge Pool Filter

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Diatomaceous Earth(DE) Filter Media:

Diatomaceous Earth or DE provides the best filtration at 1-2 microns. DE's made from fossils called diatoms. Its a fine white powerer that is poured into the skimmer and trapped by a fabric forming a thin layer that traps debris and contaminants but allows water to pass. Maintenance can be tricky and should be handled by a professional for best results.

Cartridge Style D.E. Pool Filter

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Maintenance:

Take note of the pressure side psi when first installing the filter. Once the pressure rises over 10 psi past original installation pressure, its time to clean the filter.