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Month: July 2022

What is the Best Swimming Pool Filter System?

Ajax Pool & Spa Team |

Now that summer is upon us and everyone is looking to get outside to take a dip, it is time to take a closer look at the best swimming pool filter systems. This choice may seem complicated to Aspen homeowners, but this cheat sheet is here to help.

After all, this is not a decision that can or should be taken lightly. Think of a pool filter in the same manner that you would a kidney. Without this helpful filtration device, the pool would be chock-full of algae and all sorts of other forms of debris.

When it comes time to make a choice, don’t make the all-too-common mistake of selecting the option that is the least expensive. Easy cleaning, simple maintenance and the ability to trap all contaminants are the main factors that need to be considered. In order to make the right choice, Aspen homeowners must first have a firm grasp on all of their options.

Be sure to consult with the professionals at Ajax Pool and Spa if you have any additional questions or concerns. Their team of experts is more than happy to help!

Pool Filter Types

Before we can get into specific filters, you must first learn more about each type. There are three different types for each homeowner to select from: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth. In most instances, those who are looking to keep costs lower will rely on sand filters. It’s great for larger pools because it does not require much maintenance and will not clog as easily as other options.

Homeowners who use sand filters have to be more cognizant of potential concerns, though. Sand particles are rough around the edges, causing long-term damage. The filter becomes less efficient, as the particles that are trapped within the sand start to build up inside of it. Adding a pressure gauge to the side of the filter wall and remaining on top of the pool chemistry is of the utmost importance.

Cartridge filters, on the other hand, are a bit pricier than sand filters but they are considered to be very low maintenance. As long as you do not own a huge pool, they tend to be rather effective. They are energy-efficient, inexpensive and very easy to maintain. Instead of dealing with the same backwashing process that takes place with sand filters, the cartridge is removed from the tank and sprayed down with a hose.

Last but not least, the diatomaceous earth option is the most expensive and time-consuming from a maintenance standpoint. This is because they are able to filter out the smallest particles of all. The specialized powder that is used for the D.E. option can easily be added through the pool skimmer and there is no need for harmful chemicals during the cleaning process.

Now, let’s have a closer look at the specific filters that are best for each client…..

Above Ground Pools

Carvin Laser Sand Filter

These filters rely on sand that is naturally abrasive as a means of keeping the pool sparkling clean. Water is drawn evenly across the surface, which allows for a much higher flow rate and better filtering. Backwashing is also handled in a more efficient manner. The sand will need to be replaced every five years, but this is a small price to pay. These filters can handle the needs of pools up to 21,000 gallons in size.

Easy Maintenance

Hayward StarClear Plus

This cartridge pool filter does not require a sizable amount of maintenance and will have your pool looking its best all summer long. All you need to do is provide occasional rinses when the filter is being replaced. The lid is bolt-free as well, allowing homeowners to successfully maintain their filters without the usual struggles. In-ground pools with a capacity of up to 30,000 gallons can benefit from the Hayward StarClear Plus.

Best DE Filter

Hayward EC40AC Perflex

DE filtration offers homeowners exceptionally fine filtration and the Hayward EC40AC Perflex is no different in this regard. Maintenance and cleaning are very convenient, giving pool owners the chance to enjoy superior filtration without all of the usual hassles. Residual dirt and debris are not given the opportunity to accumulate, and it is easy to purge the tubes as necessary. Strong return jets, less friction and less frequent attention…. what’s not to like?

Small Pools

Intex 1000 GPH Krystal Clear

Smaller pools need filters, too. That’s why these filters are the best choice for homeowners who are looking to care for a pool that has 6,000 gallons or less. 1,000 gallons are circulated each hour and Intex Type A filter cartridges are used. It is easy to install and works very well, especially for those who own above-ground pools.

How Does a Saltwater Pool System Work?

Ajax Pool & Spa Team |

The “how does a saltwater pool system work?” question is one that is asked often by anyone who has a pool saltwater system of their own. These systems tend to work well but when they have untimely issues, they are quite noticeable. The more we know about how these systems work, the easier it becomes to troubleshoot, though.

On the other hand, there is something to be said for having access to professionals who understand the ins and outs of saltwater poor systems. If you have any unanswered questions about how your saltwater pool system, please be sure to contact Ajax Pool and Spa as soon as possible.

In the meantime, this guide is here to help. Let’s take a closer look at these systems and how they can help homeowners to avoid more traditional pitfalls.

How These Pool Systems Work

Some homeowners may have decided that they do not enjoy the scent or the sting that is associated with chlorine. This is a common impulse, for sure. The desire to avoid these annoyances has led to a major increase when it comes to saltwater poor systems. More and more homeowners in the United States are now relying upon them.

In fact, this number has risen to 30%, with no signs of slowing down. That’s because understanding their inner workings is easier than anyone could have thought. Instead of relying on store-bought chlorine to keep water free of algae and disinfectants, an electrolytic chlorine generator is used.

These generators are responsible for separating the salt within the pool water into the two primary elements (chlorine is one of them). From there, chlorine is given the chance to circulate around the pool, sanitizing and disinfecting the water.

The main upside of this process is that cumbersome chloramines are no longer being produced. The chloramines are responsible for the unwanted odors that many homeowners wish to avoid. They are also to blame for the stinging sensations that take place.

Are Saltwater Pools Overly Salty?

Of course, when a homeowner is thinking about making the switch, they are going to want to know that the saltwater pool will not be overly salty. One of the more common misconceptions is that saltwater pool systems are functionally the same as taking a dip in the ocean. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.

When it comes to seawater, the concentration of salt is far higher. There are 35,000 parts per million to be found in the ocean. Meanwhile, the number is much smaller when a saltwater poor system is being discussed. The salt concentrations in these instances are only 3,000 to 5,000 ppm. This keeps the eyes from becoming irritated.

What Are The Benefits of a Saltwater Pool?

When saltwater pool owners are asked to discuss the benefits of these systems, the answers are obvious. For starters, there is far less maintenance to worry about over the long haul, providing homeowners with some much-needed peace of mind.

Once it comes time to open the pool for the season, all you need to do is add a few hundred pounds of salt and the rest essentially takes care of itself. All you need to do is swish it around a bit, turn the generator on and from there? You get to kick back and take it easy.

The days of constant measurement and maintenance are over. Commercial chlorine is no longer needed but more salt may need to be added at different points of the season. The annual costs are also lowered because the homeowner does not have to obtain commercial chlorine on such a regular basis.

The chlorine levels remain at a constant and the water provides a silky feel for swimmers. Hair is no longer discolored, and the eyes are not stung. There are a few minor drawbacks that homeowners should be aware of before they implement these systems.

Salt can leave stains and cause corrosion, so homeowners must be careful to avoid these issues. Sealant is best for avoiding corrosion on decks and pool adjacent areas. The startup costs are a bit higher as well, as well as cell replacement costs. These are relatively minor concerns in the grand scheme of things, however.