🧼 Best Practice Guide to Pool Filters
What Does a Pool Filter Do?
A pool filter is your pool’s primary defense against dirty water. It removes debris, fine particles, and contaminants, keeping your pool water crystal clear and safe to swim in.
Even with perfect chlorine levels, a pool without proper filtration will look cloudy and uninviting.
💡 Why Pool Filtration Matters
- Clear Water: Removes fine dirt, pollen, and algae spores.
- Sanitation Support: Helps chlorine and other chemicals work more efficiently.
- Prevents Algae Growth: Filters out organics that feed algae.
- Protects Pool Equipment: Keeps pumps and heaters from clogging or scaling.
🧃 Types of Pool Filters
There are three main types of filters used in Australian pools:
1. Sand Filters
The most common and budget-friendly option.
- How it works: Water flows through a bed of sand that traps debris.
- Maintenance: Requires backwashing (~every 3–4 weeks).
- Lifespan: Sand needs replacing every 5–7 years.
✅ Best for: Everyday residential pools with moderate debris load.
2. Glass Media Filters
A modern upgrade to traditional sand filters.
- Media: Crushed recycled glass with superior filtration.
- Finer Filtration: Down to 3–5 microns (vs. 20–30 for sand).
- Uses less water: Backwashing is quicker and less frequent.
- Longer media life: Up to 10 years.
✅ Best for: Those wanting better water clarity with less maintenance.
3. Cartridge Filters
Ideal for smaller pools or places with water restrictions.
- How it works: Water flows through a pleated fabric cartridge.
- No backwashing needed: Simply remove and hose down when dirty.
- Micron rating: Captures particles as small as 10–15 microns.
- Replace cartridges every 1–2 years.
✅ Best for: Courtyards, spas, and regions where water use matters.
🛠 Filters We Recommend
1. AstralPool ZX Cartridge Filters
Space-saving and water-conscious.
- Sizes: ZX50, ZX75, ZX100
- Max Flow: 240–360 LPM
- Micron Rating: 10–15 µm
- Maintenance: Simple top-access cartridge cleaning
✅ Best for: Small pools, spas, or customers without backwash drainage.
2. AstralPool CA Sand Filter Series
Trusted all-rounders with robust build quality.
- Sizes: CA280 to CA400
- Tank Material: UV-stabilised polyethylene
- Valve: 6-way multiport
- Max Pressure: 2.5 bar
✅ Best for: General residential use with low operating costs.
3. AstralPool Viron Media Filter
Premium option compatible with glass or sand.
- Tank Size: V500, V650, V750
- Media: Accepts both sand and glass
- Design: High-performance internal design reduces back pressure
✅ Best for: Larger pools or owners who want premium filtration and water savings.
4. Zodiac CS Cartridge Filters
Compact and efficient for tight installations.
- Sizes: CS100 to CS250
- Filter Area: 9.3 m² to 23.2 m²
- Features: Quick-connect unions and easy-lift lid
✅ Best for: Pools without sewer connection or limited space.
📊 Product Comparison Table
| Filter Type | Model | Micron Rating | Backwash? | Media Life | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sand | Astral CA Series | 20–30 µm | Yes | 5–7 years | Basic residential pools |
| Glass Media | Viron Media Filter | 3–5 µm | Yes | 7–10 years | Premium water clarity |
| Cartridge | Astral ZX | 10–15 µm | No | 1–2 years | Water-restricted areas, spas |
| Cartridge | Zodiac CS | 10–15 µm | No | 1–2 years | Compact installations |
🧪 How to Choose the Right Pool Filter
- Pool Size: Larger pools require higher flow rates and filter capacity.
- Debris Type: Leafy pools might benefit from pre-filters or larger cartridges.
- Water Availability: No backwashing = better for drought-prone areas.
- Maintenance Preference: Sand = low touch, cartridge = hands-on but no waste water.
- Water Clarity Expectations: Glass filters offer the clearest results.
🛠 Maintenance Tips
For Sand or Glass Filters:
- Backwash every 3–4 weeks (or when pressure rises 8–10 psi).
- Rinse after each backwash to settle media.
- Replace sand every 5 years or glass every 7–10 years.
For Cartridge Filters:
- Clean cartridges every 4–6 weeks (more often if heavy debris).
- Use filter cleaner every 3 months to remove oils and minerals.
- Replace when the pleats are damaged or won’t clean fully.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I run my pool filter?
Aim for 6–8 hours per day in cooler months, 10–12 in summer.
Can I upgrade from sand to glass media?
Yes — most sand filters accept glass without modification.
Do filters remove algae?
Filters remove algae spores and debris. Chlorine or algaecide is still needed for killing active blooms.
Why is my filter pressure high?
Clogged media or cartridges. Try backwashing or cleaning the cartridge. If pressure stays high, media might need replacing.
Should I turn off my filter in winter?
No — reduce run time, but keep circulating to prevent algae and bacteria buildup.
📞 Need Help Choosing?
We’ll help match the right filter to your pool’s needs — size, water source, environment, and budget. Book a free review or ask about our filter + installation bundles for a complete hassle-free setup.