Glass and sand are two popular options for pool filters. However, each has distinct features that can benefit every homeowner. Using the right filter can save you money in the long run while improving the water quality in your swimming pool.
This post aims to highlight the fierce competition between glass vs sand pool filter. From efficiency to filtration rates, we will explore all there is to know about these plumbing giants, so you can soak up the sun with absolute peace of mind.
Without further ado, let’s jump right in!
| Sand | Glass | |
| Efficiency | Removes particles down to 20-40 microns | Filters out particles as small as 3 microns |
| Longevity | Up to 5 years | Up to 10 years |
| Maintenance | More frequent backwashing | Less frequent backwashing |
| Price |
|
|
| Environmental impact | Less eco-friendly | More eco-friendly |
Page Contents
What is Glass Filter Media?
One filtration medium that is gaining popularity is glass. Made from recycled glass, this eco-friendly alternative keeps your swimming pool sparkling clean and safe from bacteria.
Glass attracts and holds micro dust, thanks to the negative charge on its surface. When water is pumped to the filter, it passes through a layer of ultra-fine glass beads, capturing debris and impurities.
The fine, crushed glass doesn’t clump together like sand. This leads to somewhat superior filtration capabilities compared to sand. Water can flow through it more easily, and fewer contaminants can escape.
- Superior filtration efficiency: Glass media filters can trap particles as tiny as 3-5 microns, which results in cleaner and crystalline water. This material is also less prone to cracking, reducing the risk of bacteria buildup.
- Longer lifespan: Glass filter media for swimming pools generally last up to ten years before needing replacement. Some brands may even claim fifteen years of longevity.
- Reduced backwashing: Less maintenance and minimal backwashing is necessary, leading to water conservation and reduced chemical usage.
- Eco-friendly: As 100% recycled materials, glass filters have a more nominal environmental footprint than sand. With glass, each backwash uses less chlorine, thereby mitigating air quality concerns.
- Safe: While most people think of cuts when they hear the word “glass,” this type of filter is extremely smooth and wouldn’t cause any injuries.
- Higher initial and replacement costs
What are Sand Filters?
Sand is the classic pool filter material you’ll see on the market. It uses specially graded silica sand as its filter media. Sand is also one of the most commonly used filtration systems worldwide.
The mechanism of a sand filter involves pool water sieving down through a bed of particles that trap debris and dirt. The clean water then returns to the pool.
When the pressure builds up due to undesirable debris, the filter must be backwashed to clear it out.
- Pocket-friendly: Sand is generally less expensive upfront than glass filtration media.
- Ease of use: This filter solution is relatively simple to operate and understand.
- Less efficient filtration: Unlike glass, sand filters can only sieve particles down to 20-40 microns. At times, unfiltered contaminants are likely to slip through as the grains break down.
- Frequent cleaning: It requires frequent backwashing to clear out trapped debris, roughly every two weeks or once each week for larger pools.
- Recurring expenses: Since sand filters wear out sooner, they need replacement every 3 to 5 years. Besides, constant cleaning may also contribute to a higher water bil
Sand Filter Vs Glass Media: Which is Better?
Choosing between sand vs glass pool filter is puzzling. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Hence, your optimal choice will depend on your preferences and these factors:
1. Service life
The lifespan of your filter media can significantly impact the functionality of your pool and maintenance budget. Glass media last 3x longer than sand. As discussed, you may need to replace sand-based filters every 3-5 years.
2. Maintenance and cleaning
Cleaning ease is another pivotal factor to ponder over. Sand filters, although simple to backwash, trap particles less well as they age and thus will require regular backwashing. Glass-based alternatives trap smaller particles better, making them less demanding of maintenance.
3. Price
While the initial cost can be an eminent factor, it’s also crucial to look at the long-term expenses. Shops sell filter media at various price points. However, on average, sand is sold at $20 per 50lb bag, and glass media for $28-$50 of the same weight.
Sand filters are more affordable but may incur more maintenance costs over time. Despite their steeper price, glass alternatives may prove more economical in the long run due to their unique characteristics.
4. Sustainability
If you want to contribute to making this planet a better place, consider the eco-friendliness of your filter media. Backwashing sand filters more often can lead to higher water and chemical usage.
Meanwhile, glass media for pool filter tend to have a softer environmental impact. It saves on water, chemical, and energy consumption.
Overall, you may pick sand filters when the budget is a considerable factor. They’re affordable for pool owners who don’t mind undertaking regular maintenance.
Glass is ideal if you are into superior filtration, less maintenance, and a more eco-friendly option.
Conclusion
In brief, understanding the differences between a glass vs sand pool filter is paramount. Every option has unique properties, benefits, and drawbacks that can affect water quality.
Remember, the best pool filter requires minimal maintenance while delivering superb filtration abilities. We hope this guide helps you decide on a worthy filtration media to keep your pools clean and crystal clear!
