In the field of pool maintenance, keeping the water crystal clear is one of the most critical tasks. Traditionally, we have relied on sand, DE (diatomaceous earth), and cartridge filters as filtration media to purify pool water. However, with advancements in technology, pool filter balls have emerged as a new filtration medium, attracting more and more attention. This article will delve into the effectiveness of pool filter balls, their usage, cleaning methods, and comparisons with traditional filtration media, helping you make an informed choice.
What Are Pool Filter Balls?
Pool filter balls are a filtration medium made from polyethylene or polypropylene, typically ranging in diameter from 0.5 to 1.5 inches. These balls are lightweight, eco-friendly, and reusable. They are designed to replace traditional sand, DE, and cartridge filters, providing a more efficient way to capture dirt and debris, thus maintaining the clarity of pool water.
Are Pool Filter Balls Really Effective?
In short, pool filter balls are indeed effective. They can capture a variety of contaminants, including hair, dead skin cells, algae, dirt, and sludge. Additionally, they can absorb certain chemicals such as chloramines, heavy metals, and organic compounds. This is due to the irregular shape and large surface area of the filter balls, which create a labyrinthine effect, greatly enhancing their ability to trap dirt.
How to Use Pool Filter Balls?
Using pool filter balls is very simple. Here are the detailed steps:
Step 1: Turn Off Everything
Turn off the pool pump and system, then locate the filter housing.
Step 2: Remove Sand
Open the filter housing and remove the sand inside, especially paying attention to clearing any residual sand in the laterals at the bottom of the tank, which are used to distribute water evenly. Thoroughly rinse the filter interior with a hose.
Step 3: Add Pool Filter Balls
Add the pool filter balls into the filter housing. Simply pour the balls from the bag into the housing, taking care not to overfill. Generally, 1 cubic foot or about 1 pound of pool filter balls can replace 100 pounds of sand.
Step 4: Replace All Components
Reinstall the control valve or tank cover and ensure the pump housing is secure.
Step 5: Rinse the Filter Balls
Start the pump and rinse the new filter media for 2 minutes to remove any loose debris on the filter balls. After that, backwash for 2 minutes to clear any remaining impurities.
Step 6: Filter Your Pool!
Set the equipment to filter mode, and your pool filter balls are now ready for use. Monitor the filter’s pressure gauge; when the pressure increases by about 5 to 8 psi above normal, it’s an indication that the filter balls need cleaning.
How to Clean Pool Filter Balls?
Depending on the frequency of pool use and the level of contamination, you may need to clean the pool filter balls every two to three weeks. Here are three different cleaning methods:
Method 1: Basic Rinse and Squeeze
- Turn off the pool pump and system, and remove the filter balls from the filter tank.
- Place the filter balls in a mesh bag and spray them with a strong stream of water to remove loose debris and dirt.
- Take each filter ball out of the bag, rinse further with a hose, and gently squeeze to remove excess dirt and grease.
- Allow the cleaned filter balls to dry completely before returning them to the filter tank.
Method 2: Deep Soak and Clean
- Turn off the pool pump and system, and remove the filter balls from the filter tank.
- Fill a bucket with hot water and add a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics.
- Soak the filter balls in the soapy water for 20 minutes to remove stubborn dirt and grime.
- Rinse the filter balls thoroughly in clean water, gently squeezing to remove excess water.
- Let them dry completely before returning them to the filter tank.
Method 3: Washing Machine
- Turn off the pool pump and system, and remove the filter balls.
- Place the filter balls in a mesh laundry bag and put them in the washing machine.
- Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent; do not spin dry.
- After the cycle, gently squeeze each filter ball to remove excess water.
- Lay the filter balls out on a clean towel to dry in the sun, then return them to the filter tank once dry.
Comparing Pool Filter Balls with Other Filtration Media
Pool Filter Balls vs. Sand
Filtration Efficiency: Pool filter balls can capture particles as small as 5 microns, while sand filters only down to 20 to 40 microns.
Maintenance: Pool filter balls are lightweight, easier to handle, carry, clean, and maintain. In contrast, sand is heavier and more cumbersome to handle, especially during cleaning.
Cost: Although sand is cheaper, the reusability of pool filter balls makes them more economical in the long run.
Pool Filter Balls vs. DE
Filtration Efficiency: Both can capture particles as small as 5 microns, making them equally effective.
Maintenance: Pool filter balls are easier to clean and require less frequent maintenance. DE filters need fresh DE powder after each backwash, making the process more cumbersome.
Cost: Pool filter balls have lower maintenance costs since they don’t need to be replaced frequently like DE powder.
Pool Filter Balls vs. Cartridge Filters
Filtration Efficiency: Pool filter balls capture particles as small as 5 microns, while cartridge filters capture particles down to 10 to 15 microns.
Maintenance: Pool filter balls are compact, lightweight, and easy to clean. Cartridge filters require more space and frequent maintenance.
Cost: Both have minimal ongoing costs, but cartridge filters are more expensive initially and require more frequent replacements.
Pros and Cons of Pool Filter Balls
Pros
- Easy to Install and Operate: Lightweight and compact, simple to install.
- Reusable: Easy to clean and economical.
- Eco-Friendly: Made from recyclable materials and do not pollute water.
- Cost-Effective: Saves a lot of money in the long run.
Cons
- Durability Issues: May degrade over time with exposure to water and chemicals.
- Limited Compatibility: Not all filters are compatible with them.
- Reduced Effectiveness with Reuse: Their filtering effectiveness may decrease over time.
Conclusion
As an emerging filtration medium, pool filter balls have significant advantages. They are efficient, easy to maintain, environmentally friendly, and more economical in the long term. Although they have some drawbacks, their overall performance makes them an excellent choice for pool filtration systems. If you are looking for an efficient and economical pool filtration solution, consider using pool filter balls.
Before making a decision, ensure that your pool filtration system is suitable for this medium. If you have any questions, feel free to consult a professional for more advice and assistance.