A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Pool Filter for Easy, Stress-Free Maintenance

For pool owners in Perth, understanding the ins and outs of pool filters is essential to keeping water clean, clear, and inviting. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, the best filter for fine debris, or a pre-filter to extend your filter’s life, we’ve got you covered.

At Best Price Pool Equipment (BPPE), we know how important it is to find equipment that works for your pool’s specific needs. As a locally owned and operated business, we’re dedicated to helping Perth pool owners make pool care easy, efficient, and stress-free. Let’s take a look at how different pool filter types work and which one might be best for you.

Low-maintenance cleaning with sand filters

A sand filter is one of the most tried-and-tested types of pool filters. Known for their durability, sand filters work by pushing water through a bed of filter media—usually sand or, in modern systems, glass media—which captures and traps particles as water flows through. The result is clean, clear water, free of larger debris like leaves and dirt.

• How sand filters work: Water enters from the top of the filter and flows down through layers of sand or glass, which capture particles and contaminants. Over time, the filter media can become clogged with debris, so periodic backwashing is needed to clear it.
• Maintenance: Sand filters require a process called backwashing, where water flow is reversed to dislodge accumulated particles. This needs to be done every few weeks, depending on pool usage, but it keeps maintenance manageable and effective.
• Pros:
  • Effective at filtering out larger debris and keeping water clear.
  • Requires less frequent cleaning compared to other filters.
  • Built to last, making them a reliable long-term option.
• Cons:
  • Backwashing uses additional water, which may require drainage.
  • Generally takes up more space than other filter types.
  • Higher initial setup cost compared to cartridge filters.

BPPE expert tip: Sand filters are a great choice if you’re looking for a durable, low-maintenance option for pools that collect larger debris. At BPPE, we stock high-quality sand filters like the Astral Cantabric, which is built for efficiency and longevity.

Water-conserving, compact solutions with cartridge filters

Cartridge filters are popular for their compact size and ease of use. They contain a pleated filter cartridge, which captures dirt and debris as water passes through, making them highly effective for finer particles. Cartridge filters don’t require backwashing, so they’re a great choice for water conservation.

• How cartridge filters work: Water is drawn through the pleated cartridge, and impurities are trapped within the pleats. When the cartridge gets clogged, it can simply be removed, rinsed, and replaced as needed, making maintenance straightforward.
• Maintenance: Cartridge filters need to be rinsed regularly, especially in pools with heavy use or fine particles. The cartridge will generally need replacing every 1-2 years, depending on pool usage.
• Pros:
  • Compact design makes them ideal for limited space.
  • Water-conserving as no backwashing is required.
  • Simple to clean; just rinse or replace the cartridge.
• Cons:
  • Requires regular cleaning, as debris can quickly clog the filter.
  • Cartridge replacement adds to long-term maintenance costs.
  • May restrict water flow if not cleaned frequently.

BPPE expert tip: Cartridge filters, such as the Astral XC or Waterco Opal models, are perfect for pool owners who want an easy-to-maintain, water-saving option. Visit BPPE in Claremont, and we’ll help you select the ideal cartridge filter for your pool.

Multicyclone pre-filters boost efficiency and reduce maintenance

For both sand and cartridge filters, a multicyclone pre-filter can be a game-changer. Acting as the first line of defence, the multicyclone pre-filter captures larger particles before they reach the main filter, reducing maintenance frequency and extending the life of your main filter.

• How Multicyclone pre-filters work: Water enters the multicyclone chamber, creating centrifugal force that pushes heavier debris to the outer walls. This debris settles in a sediment chamber, and the cleaner water exits from the top, flowing to the main filter.
• Maintenance benefits: By catching larger particles before they reach the sand or cartridge filter, the multicyclone pre-filter cuts down on backwashing and reduces the frequency of cartridge cleanings. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick drain of the sediment chamber.
• Key benefits:
  • Reduces the load on your primary filter, making it more efficient.
  • Extends the lifespan of both sand and cartridge filters.
  • Simple to maintain, with easy debris removal.

BPPE expert tip: The Waterco Multicyclone pre-filter is a valuable addition for any pool owner looking to extend filter life and reduce maintenance. Our BPPE team in Claremont can show you how a pre-filter could make your pool maintenance routine easier.

Which pool filter is right for you?

Each filter type offers unique advantages depending on your pool’s needs:

• Sand filters are durable and ideal for pools with larger debris and less frequent cleaning needs.
• Cartridge filters are compact and conserve water, making them suitable for small spaces and pools with finer debris.
• Multicyclone pre-filters enhance efficiency and reduce maintenance for both sand and cartridge filters.

When choosing your pool filter, consider factors like the size of your pool, water clarity needs, and maintenance preferences. At Best Price Pool Equipment, we’re committed to helping Perth pool owners find the best solution for hassle-free pool care.

Why choose BPPE for your pool filter needs?

With over 20 years of experience as a WA-owned and operated business, BPPE has the expertise, product selection, and personalised service to ensure you get the perfect filter for your pool. Our friendly staff takes the time to understand your needs and provide tailored recommendations for lasting water quality and minimal maintenance.

Ready to simplify your pool care routine? Visit us in store today for expert advice and top-quality pool filters that fit your specific needs.