What is filtration? The purpose of swimming pool filtration is to clarify the water, which contains suspended particles, by passing it through a porous material. It also prevents the proliferation of algae. It consists of closed-circuit circulation by a pump and a certain quantity of filtration equipment (see below).
If we take the example of the human body, the pump and filtration are what the heart and the cardio-vascular system are to man… In other words, they are essential for the proper operation of your pool.
Swimming pool filtration:
80% of the maintenance of the water is performed by filtration (physical treatment) and 20% by cleaning products (mechanical or chemical treatment). The choice of filtration is a key element of your pool that conditions its ease of use and its maintenance budget. Waterair Swimming Pools has developed particularly efficient and economic solutions.
Types of pool filtration
Which filter to choose? The main element of the filtration system, there are several types of filter on the market. What is the best swimming pool filtration system? Each filter has its advantages and disadvantages. Sand and cartridge filtration are particularly appreciated by pool owners. The criteria of their choice can be based on the fineness of filtration, the timed required for maintenance and water consumption.
An explanation…
- sand filtration: appreciated for its easy cleaning (backwashing) and the fineness of filtration (around 50 microns). However, this system requires sewer drainage, which complicates installation. Backwashing requires a great deal of water;
- cartridge filtration (polyester): this system is preferred for the quality of filtration (around 20 microns) and for its limited water consumption. Cleaning is carried out by rinsing the cartridge with a hose (more time-consuming than sand filtration). Installation is simple, there is no need for connection;
- pocket filtration: disposable or washable, with performance similar to that of cartridges. Nevertheless, it requires more frequent maintenance;
- diatomaceous earth filtration: even if the fineness of filtration is excellent, this system is not very often used for family pools because it is more costly and technically complex;
- glass filtration: very fashionable and close to sand filtration in terms of fineness of filtration and maintenance, this system is nevertheless more expensive than sand filtration.
Waterair Swimming Pools filtration systems
The choice of filtration system depends on the installation of your pool: is it surrounded by plants? is it exposed to wind? But it also largely depends on the use of the pool: is it part of a main residence or a holiday home? You will determine the best system to choose with our representative during the site study. The Waterair range is rich and varied.
- Traditional systems
- Waterair cartridge filtration: crystal-clear water thanks to very great fineness of filtration (20 microns). The cartridge is very large to reduce the frequency of maintenance. Low water consumption: the cartridge is cleaned with a hose. Economic, the cartridge lasts for 5 to 7 years. Easy to install: connection to the sewer system is not necessary;
- Sand filtration: fineness of filtration (50 microns), simple maintenance (backwashing);
- Integrated pool filtration photo
Fillwat Compact System®, filtration system for swimming pools under 46 m3. 30% savings on electricity compared to traditional systems and very easy to maintain. Possibility to use 2 types of filter: cartridge or disposable pockets.
- Pre-assembled “all-in-one” technical facility based on cartridge filters
- Locaroc 2 Filtration: entirely pre-assembled pool filtration unit whose design is inspired by a rock; it will integrate perfectly into your garden. This facility is scalable (possibility of adding an electrolyser). Easy installation;
- Locatec Classic®: multi-function, high-end filtration unit, includes a shower tray. Very robust (polyester);
- Locatec Premium®: also multi-function. Includes a composite wood polyester grating.
What are the criteria for choosing a filtration system?
- the flow of filtration: to define according to the volume of your pool. Flow of filtration = volume of water in the pool (m3) / 4 (hours);
- the type of filter: must be adapted to the power of the pump;
- electrical consumption: prefer economical pumps.
What are the elements of a filtration system?
The filtration system consists of several elements, each of which plays a crucial role:
- Pump & electrical cabinet:
- the pump: ensures the circulation of water to recycle for purification. It consists of 3 elements: a pre-filter to eliminate coarse impurities, a “body” consisting of a turbine that circulates the water and a motor (single-phase or three-phase);
- the electrical cabinet: enables the connection of the pump to the electrical installation of the house. It contains safety elements (circuit-breaker) and a clock that enables you to programme filtration time;
- programmable filtration clock: to automatically trigger the filtration system. Filtration time is proportionate to water temperature;
- Filters: enable the separation of impurities (mineral and organic) from the water that contains them. They eliminate the turbidity of the water, making it clear and improving its quality;
- The hydraulic system
- the skimmer : skims the surface. It sucks up leaves, insects and floating debris from the surface of the water. It consists of a suction cone and a variable aperture or weir;
- piping: ensures the connection between the technical facility and the pool, it must resist high pressure;
- the refilling nozzle: it is a fixed element that enables water to be projected into the pool under a certain amount of pressure, to direct the flow and to find the best hydraulic flow (water circulation) possible. It ensures the return of filtered water to your pool.
What is the purpose of a swimming pool pump and how should you choose it?
A pump sucks up the pool water via the skimmer and sends it into the filter before returning it to the pool via the refilling nozzles (once recycled). You water cannot stay clean without it.
The size of the pump is related to the size of your pool, its length, its piping and the number of elbows it contains (each elbow implies a loss of pressure). There are different sorts of pump. In terms of energy savings, the trend is towards small pumps that run for a longer period of time. Advantages: reduced water and electricity consumption and a cleaner pool.
The choice of a pool filtration system is not to be taken lightly because it determines the quality of the water, the time spent maintaining your pool and the maintenance budget. There are a number of solutions to facilitate swimming pool maintenance and it is up to you to choose the one that suits you best.
