When it comes to swimming pool maintenance, keeping your pool water clean, clear, and healthy is essential—especially in Austin, Texas, where pollen, dust, and debris are a constant challenge. The heart of clean pool water is a properly sized and well-maintained pool filter.
With several filter options available, how do you know which one is right for your pool? Let’s break down the three most common types of swimming pool filters used in Austin: Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.), Cartridge, and Sand filters.
Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) Filters
The Gold Standard for Pool Water Clarity
If crystal-clear water is your top priority, D.E. filters are widely considered the best option for Austin swimming pool maintenance.
- Filters particles as small as 4 microns
- Ideal for high pollen and dust conditions
- Delivers unmatched water clarity
To put that into perspective, a human hair is about 70 microns wide—meaning a D.E. filter removes extremely fine debris that other filters miss.
Maintenance considerations:
- Backwash and recharge every 4–6 weeks
- Full D.E. filter service once per year
While D.E. filters require more hands-on maintenance, the payoff is consistently sparkling water that’s always swim-ready.
Cartridge Filters
A Great Option for Saltwater Pools
Cartridge filters are a popular choice in Austin, especially for saltwater swimming pools.
- Filters particles down to 15 microns
- No backwashing required
- Helps maintain proper salt levels
Because cartridge filters don’t require backwashing, they conserve water and prevent salt loss—making them ideal for salt systems.
Maintenance considerations:
- Clean cartridges every 3–4 months or when pressure rises 10 PSI
- Replace cartridges every 2–3 years for best performance
Cartridge filters offer an excellent balance of filtration quality and ease of maintenance.
Sand Filters
Low Maintenance, Budget-Friendly Option
For pool owners who value simplicity, sand filters are the most low-maintenance choice.
- Easy to operate
- Self-cleaning during backwashing
- Cost-effective option
However, sand filters only capture particles between 25–50 microns, which may not be sufficient in Austin’s dusty and pollen-heavy environment.
Maintenance considerations:
- Replace sand every 3–5 years
- Occasional use of clarifiers may be needed for better water clarity
Sand filters are a good option if convenience and affordability are your main priorities.
Which Pool Filter Is Best for Your Austin Pool?
Choosing the right pool filter depends on your pool type, usage, and maintenance preferences.
Choose a D.E. Filter if:
- You want the cleanest, clearest water possible
- Your pool is exposed to heavy pollen, dust, or frequent use
- You don’t mind more frequent maintenance
Choose a Cartridge Filter if:
- You have a saltwater pool
- You want strong filtration with less maintenance
- You prefer water conservation and easier upkeep
Choose a Sand Filter if:
- You want low maintenance and simplicity
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly solution
- You don’t mind slightly reduced water clarity
Quality Matters in Pool Filtration
No matter which filter type you choose, quality equipment is essential for long-term performance. For reliable Austin swimming pool maintenance, we recommend trusted brands such as:
- Pentair
- Jandy
- Hayward
Proper installation, routine service, and correct sizing make all the difference in keeping your pool clean and efficient.