pool cleaner blog

How to Reduce Cyanuric Acid in Pool

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When the cyanuric acid level of your pool is at equilibrium, it’s such a beautiful thing because the chlorine level of your pool is maintained and stabilized to a certain degree. However, when the levels become too high, it can render the chlorine in your pool useless, making the water contaminated. 

How to Reduce Cyanuric Acid in Pool

What is Cyanuric Acid?

Cyanuric acid is a chemical substance that enhances the effects of chlorine in the pool to clean and sanitize the water. This is not a tough chemical to find as you can purchase it yourself or its added as droplets to your chlorine tablets. The reason why Cyanuric acid is the best option to use is that it has little effect on calcium hardness of the water, alkalinity, or pH levels. 

You may hear people refer to it as a pool conditioner, and the reason for this is that it weakens the strength of chlorine and makes it less abrasive on the body of swimmers and objects in the pool. Still, its main job is to enhance the chlorine effect in the pool, protect the water from bacteria and algae, and shield the impact of chlorine from being broken down by external elements such as the weather.

Why Does the Pool Need Cyanuric Acid?

We need to pour cyanuric acid into our pools to stabilize the chlorine molecules and keep it from breaking down in the sun. It also reduces the growth of algae in our pools due to its enhancing effect on the chlorine. You should note that this chemical should be used for only outdoor pool. It should not be used for indoor pools except the pool has open areas or is surrounded by lots of windows. 

What Level of Cyanuric Acid is Necessary?

The proper level of cyanuric acid to use in your pools is a small amount that can be in the form of droplets, but if you’re afraid of adding more than what is required, you can add it in trace amounts. Anything higher than the optimum level, which is 30-50 ppm (parts per million), will keep the chlorine from being killed by the sun but will neutralize all of its effectiveness in killing bacteria.

What Causes the High Cyanuric Acids in Pools?

A common cause for the increase in cyanuric acids in pools is a result of the user’s habits, and these things happen without the user’s knowledge. The use of stabilized chlorine adds cyanuric acid every time you make use of it. When the water evaporates, it leaves traces of cyanuric acid behind. Stabilized chlorine makes cyanuric acid accumulate fast. One pound of Trichlor in 10,000 gallons of water will add six ppm of cyanuric acid, so imagine what would accumulate in a month after the number of times you add it to the pool. You need to take note of this as a pool owner or pool professional who looks after pools.

How to Lower Cyanuric Acid in Pools?

What would you do if you notice that your cyanuric acid levels are high? It’s simple. The most economical way to reduce cyanuric acid in your pools is to drain the pools or add fresh water to the pool. These are the simplest methods to get things done. Still, there are also specialized filters that can be used to capture the acid and extract it from the pool in a reverse osmosis system. Just note that reverse osmosis is quite costly, but it will serve best in areas where they’re not able to drain the pool.

The bottom line to the use of cyanuric acid is to keep its level quite low enough to manage sanitation and keep LSI balanced. But if you find out that your cyanuric acid level is quite high, diluting the pool or draining it is your best option to take.

How to Reduce Cyanuric Acid in Pool

How to Get Rid of Mustard Algae

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While it’s not necessarily dangerous to humans, yellow algae in swimming pools are still unsightly and gross. Nobody is going to want to swim in a swimming pool that has ugly discoloration. Sometimes it doesn’t even look that bad – at least in the early stages. It can easily be mistaken as pollen or even sand. A mustard alga usually isn’t “slimy” either. Many pool owners don’t even realize they have it at first until it starts to spread. 

And it can REALLY spread – not just around the pool floor and walls – but to equipment, toys, floats, and even bathing suits! 

How to Get Rid of Mustard Algae

It is absolutely essential that you learn how to get rid of mustard algae before any overgrowth begins, because there is the possibility that it could begin harboring harmful bacteria such as E. coli. 

Once it begins to grow, it’s very difficult to eradicate, and it could still come back again if you don’t start taking better care of your pool.

Step 1 – Clean EVERYTHING 

If you suspect that you might have algae, the very first thing you need to do is clean everything that has touched the pool. This includes all equipment, toys, floats, beach balls, the ladder, and even bathing suits. Most of these can be cleaned with Clorox or white bleach. Spray down the surface and wipe the item down with a clean cloth. As for the bathing suits, they should be thoroughly washed with color-safe bleach. 

A robotic cleaner isn’t going to be enough to scrub the algae since it can grow in the little nooks and crannies of the surfaces.  This is something that you have to do manually with a brush. Don’t forget to scrub beneath the steps on the ladder and around the fixtures and gaskets. Ideally, the algae will settle on the bottom. From there, vacuum the bottom using the “waste” mode. 

Keep the water moving by running the pump and filter for several hours a day. Yellow algae tend to thrive in stagnant water, so keep it circulating. 

Step 2 – Testing and Shocking 

Before you learn how to get rid of mustard algae in swimming pool for good, you’ll need to first test the water to ensure that the pH and alkalinity are balanced. Most people use strips or meters. The ideal pH level in a pool should be approximately 7.5 Algae thrives is anything much higher than that. The ideal ppm for the alkalinity should be between 80 and 140. 

If the pH level is over 7.6, lower it by adding sodium bi-sulfate or muriatic acid. After treatment, wait at least an hour before testing again. 

Once the pH level is stabilized, the alkalinity level should naturally follow. 

Before the shock treatment, begin the shock treatment. Put all cleaning equipment and hoses at the shallow end of the pool. Wait until NIGHT time to actually do the shocking; the sun will reduce the effectiveness of the chlorine. 

A product like calcium hypochlorite is usually recommended. Use approximately 3 pounds (1.36-kg) for every 10,000 gallons of water. 

Whatever type of product you use, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions clearly. 

Eliminating the Algae and Preventing it from Coming Back 

Now that you know how to get rid of yellow algae in pool, you need to know how to prevent it from coming back. 

Hopefully, it will be gone when you test it again the next morning. Make sure the pool is still balanced. Take the brush and continue scrubbing the areas where the algae have been just in case any residue might be remaining behind. 

The ideal type of brush depends on what kind of pool you own. For unpainted concrete surfaces, use a scrubber with stainless steel bristles. For vinyl, painted concrete, or fiberglass, use vinyl or nylon bristles. 

Keep the chlorine running high and continue testing the pH and alkaline levels over the course of a few days. If there are no signs of the algae coming back, congratulations – you completely eliminated it. If it does, however, start the process over again. 

You might want to go ahead and shock it again anyway at normal strength just to be sure. Don’t forget to clean out the filters. 

Conclusion 

Now that you know how to get rid of the algae, you might be wondering if it’s too much work. The process isn’t as difficult as it might seem as long as you follow instructions. Your pool is an investment, so you’ll want to preserve it for as long as possible and the steps necessary to ensure that it is sparkly clean. 

Make sure it does not come back. Keep an eye on the pH and alkalinity levels regularly and don’t forget to run the pump regularly so that the water doesn’t become stagnant. 

How to Get Rid of Mustard Algae

How Much Stabilizer To Add To Pool

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Do not believe everything good you hear about the sun. The round, yellow-faced ball, for all of its kindness to the folks at California, damages our pools faster than rats on a cheese. Did you know that, in the absence of a buffer, the sun destroys nearly 90% of your pool’s free, unstabilized chlorine within few hours? By so doing, your intended sanitizer evaporates before it even commences its cleansing.

How Much Stabilizer To Add To Pool

At the end of this piece, you’d have known:

  • What pool stabilizer actually is
  • Why your stabilizer has to be balanced
  • How much stabilizer to add to saltwater pool
  • How to add stabilizer to saltwater pool

So, here we go!

What Is Pool Stabilizer? 

Pool stabilizer, also famed as pool conditioner or cyanuric acid, is a chemical additive that creates stabilized chlorine when mixed with trichlor (chlorine tablets or stick) or dichlor (shock). Stabilized chlorine stays longer in your pool, having been conditioned to resist the sun’s effects far longer than ordinary chlorine.

Put simply, pool stabilizer helps your chlorine stay longer in water. If you are looking for a more specific explanation, here: cyanuric acid binds to chlorite ions upon addition, making them formidable against the ultraviolet sun rays. Without pool stabilizer, the sun would easily break through the chlorite ions, causing premature evaporation. With pool stabilizer, your chlorine is a super soldier; without it, it is ordinary.

Why Balance Your Pool Stabilizer? 

Like all chemicals, an excessive use of cyanuric acid attracts negative consequences while an inadequate usage reduces its potency.

When your pool stabilizer is insufficient for the pool, your chlorine will evaporate within a couple of hours and, consequently, leave your pool vulnerable to algae and bacteria growth. I suppose this is a pool no one wants to be in.

On the other hand, if the usage of pool stabilizer is above the recommended level, the chlorine is overwhelmed and, ironically, rendered ineffective. This means that instead of strengthening the chlorite ions, cyanuric acid weakens them. Simply put, it performs the exact opposite of its purpose. 

How Much Stabilizer to Add to Your Saltwater Pool 

Now, having recognized the consequences of improper usage of pool stabilizer, it becomes very important to know the right dosage to include to your chlorine.

There are different opinions among professionals on the ideal CYA level in your pool. But, having been a pool owner for a decade and always maintained the right level, I strictly stick to what’s worked for me. The general rule is to ensure that the level lies in-between 30 ppm and 50 ppm. Depending on the pool’s level, the suitable figure could be 35 ppm or 45 ppm; it honestly depends.

Some may argue that the CYA level could be up to 75 ppm. I wouldn’t recommend that at all. 90% of the time, this would result to chlorine lock, a situation in which your pool tests negative for chlorine although you have added plenty of it.

The suggestion here is to do constant water tests in order to ensure that the level remains below 50 ppm.

How to add Stabilizer to your Saltwater Pool

You weren’t considering adding your stabilizer directly to your pool, were you? I hope not. The CYA mixture contains acid, and therefore may cause skin irritation or some damage to your pool liner if directly added.

The safer option is to first dissolve in a warm bucket of water before adding to your pool. I would recommend pouring at the edges of the pool rather than into its general surface.

I insist, never add chemicals directly to your pool!

Bottom Line

As long as your pool is outdoor, you can’t ignore the relevance of pool stabilizer. I mean, I’m not sure you want your family in a pool with bacteria and algae. At the same time, remember to keep things balanced otherwise you might be skinny-dipping in a pool with 90% chlorine level, all thanks to Chlorine Lock.

How Much Stabilizer To Add To Pool

The Best Pool Filter

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UPDATED: Mar 11, 2020.

You know the importance of a pool filter to keep it clean from the constant contamination brought in by swimmers, the wind, and even articles used in and around the pool. Despite being a simple piece of equipment, not many people know how to buy the best pool filter because there isn’t enough credible info available. If that rings a bell, this guide can solve your problem.

Pool Filter
By: Dona Hall

Here are Our Top Picks for The Best Pool Filter:

Choosing the Right Type of Filter for Your Pool

Depending on their construction, there are three main types of pool filters:

  1. D.E or Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filters
  2. Sand Pool Filters
  3. Cartridge Pool Filters

The million-dollar question is: which one of these is the best? Well, when it comes to pool filters, there is no one-size-fits-all formula.  In other words, the best type of pool depends on your needs and your budget. However, if you wanted to know one key factor that determines the performance of your pool filter, it’ll be the size of the filter.

So, if you had just one takeaway from this guide, let it be: choose a filter at least one size bigger than you think you need. In other words, the biggest filter you can afford is almost always the best filter for your pool. All the other things such as brand, name, type, color come second.

Before we talk about each type of filters, let me throw in another very important question.

How to Find Out the Right Size?

This is where most people will drop the ball. They will either guess the right size or will simply consider the overall size of their pool and end up choosing the wrong filter size. Fortunately, here’s an ABC simple step-by-step formula to determine the correct size:

  • Step 1. Calculate the total volume of the pool. For a square/rectangular pools, the formula is length x width x depth. For circular pools, it is radios x 3.14 (pi) x depth.
  • Step 2. Calculate the capacity of pool in gallons. You can do so by multiplying pool volume (step 1) by 7.48 (which is the number of gallons in a cubic foot of volume)
  • Step 3. Calculate the flow rate of water. You can buy cheap hardware sensors for this, but better yet, we have a formula, which costs nothing. Flow rate = capacity of the pool divided by turnover rate. Turnover rate is the total time required to circulate the body of water equal to the capacity of the pool.
  • Step 4. Get your ideal filter, whose flow rate matches the flow rate of the pool. Remember, the actual flow rate of a filter can be derived by multiplying the filter rate by filter area.
  • Step 5. Remember to choose at least one size bigger!

Diatomaceous Earth Filters

Ideal for: people who have enough budget to afford top of the line product

Average price:  $800

Also, known as DE filters, these are considered to be the most reliable filters. They are made of a series of fabric covered filter elements or grids, which is coated with Diatomaceous Earth – a white powder found on earth.  The magical capabilities of the powder let you filter out even the microscopic particles, ensuring pure, clean water in the pool.

Read More: Robotic Pool cleaner.

Pros of DE filters:

  • Filters particles that are as small as 5 microns
  • Easy to refresh as all you have to do is add DE powered through the skimmer
  • High performance, long life

Cons of DE filters:

  • Expensive
  • The powder is considered to be a carcinogen and must be dealt with care
  • Needs cleaning at least once a year depending on your use

Sand filters

Ideal for: people who want a hassle-free, budget-friendly filter

Average price: $250 (for above ground sand filters) and $600 (for in-ground sand filters)

These are the most commonly used and top rated pool filters. They are usually two to four feet in diameter and look like a big ball. Just as the name suggests, they contain sand, while there’s a drain pipe at the bottom of the tank. The water passes through the sand, leaving any impurities behind, and goes out of the filter through the pipe at the bottom.

Pros of sand filters:

  • Affordable
  • Very easy to maintain. Simply backwash and rinse.
  • Sand is easy to acquire and lasts for many years

Cons of sand filters:

  • Water wasted through backwash and rinsing when cleaning
  • Filters only down to 20 microns
  • Creates a lot of pressure

Cartridge filters:

Ideal for: People who don’t want to spend time maintain the pool

Average price: $400 (for above ground sand filters) and $750 (for in-ground sand filters)

These are the energy- and cost-efficient filters that are pretty similar to the DE filters, however, there is no DE involved. Water enters the filter that has one or more cylindrical cartridges of pleated mesh material. All the impurities get stuck in the cartridges, while the water goes out the pipe at the bottom, into the pool.

Pros of cartridge filters

  • Energy- and cost-efficient
  • Helps save water
  • Can filter down to 10 microns

Cons of cartridge filters

  • Needs maintenance – you’ve to take the cartridges out and wash them
  • Worn cartridges need to be replaced (not very frequently though)

Now you know the types of pool filters, let’s review some of the very best filters available on the market. Since there are two major categories of pool systems i.e. in-ground and above ground, we’ll talk about the best filters in each category.

Best Pool Filter on the Market

Best In-Ground Pool Filter Systems

Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump

This sand filter pump from Intex has a pump flow rate of 1200 GPH. It comes equipped with 6 features which include backwash, filter, recirculates, rinses, drain and close the system. There is a digital timer provided which you can set as per your requirement. 

The maximum time limit is 12 hours and the pump switches off as per the time you have set it to. Amongst the other accessories offered you receive two 1.5 inch connector hoses that make it easy for the water to be transported. 

The pressure gauge gave monitors the amount of water being pumped to avoid any mishap. This makes the pump useful for any pool with a diameter of 16 feet or less. 

Pros

  • 6 features making it easy to use
  • Digital timer allowing you to set a limit for it to switch off
  • Pressure gauge helping in controlling the amount of water
  • Suitable for any pool with 16 feet diameter or less

Cons

  • The material used is flimsy

Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools with GFCI

If you’re on a budget, yet want a filter system that works as good as any other filter and needs little maintenance, consider the Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump. It uses sand to filter water for your pool. In addition to filtering, the sole valve allows you to backwash, recirculate, drain, and even close the system – making it very simple and convenient to use.

The smart filter has a built-in 24-hour time which makes the overall experience of keeping your pool crystal clear hassle-free. The system is available in four different models, 1050 GPH, 1600 GPH, 2150 GPH, and 3000 GPH. The most powerful unit i.e. 3000 GPH can work for above ground pools as big as 16′ and above. The best thing about the Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools with GFCI is that it requires zero maintenance – all you have to do is replace sand after five years.

Pros

  • Extremely affordable with virtually no maintenance cost
  • Very easy to use and maintain. Built-in timer further adds to ease of use.
  • Available in four different sizes, you can find one that perfectly fits your bill
  • Works pretty quickly, thanks to the higher flow rate
  • One valve lets you do everything from filtering to backwashing to recirculating to draining to closing

Cons

  • The only real concern with this filter is that it is only compatible with custom adapters, and the package doesn’t come with all adapters. You’ll need to buy a couple of adapters to set it up.
  • Is not as durable as some of the other filter systems
  • Can be a bit loud at times, but normally there’s nothing more than a little humming sound.

Hayward S270T Pro Series 27-Inch Pool Sand Filter for In-ground Pool

This is one of the most popular and most powerful in-ground pool filter systems, and there are many reasons for that. The weather-proof, corrosion-proof tank is made of a sturdy polymeric material and comes with a patented six-piston multi-port valve. The user-friendly lever action operation of the valve makes it very convenient to use. It works on the backwashing principal and ensures that water in your pool is crystal clear. The affordable price, ease of use, and low maintenance further sweeten the deal.

Pros

  • Made of extremely durable weather- and corrosion-proof materials that can withstand any type of weather for a very long time to come
  • Comes with a gigantic pressure drain (either sand or water) for speedy servicing
  • Backwashing is very simple and ensures water in your pool is crystal clear
  • The filter system is highly energy efficient and can save you decent money in terms of electric bills, thanks to the full-flow technology
  • Very simple to operate and requires very little maintenance
  • Despite being a high-quality system, it’s very reasonable priced
  • Great pro-active customer service. In fact, their Hayward service has reached out to people who had a bad experience and posted their review online to help them sort out their issue. Kudos!

Cons

  • The packing that the product comes in isn’t great. This isn’t a deal breaker, but when you invest a handsome amount of money, you can expect more than a large cardboard with the product freely jostling around in it.
  • Comes with one a one-year warranty
  • It’s rather heavy for its size, but this can actually be a benefit as it shows the durable build of the unit.

Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump

This pump is designed especially for above ground pools and it is suitable for 16-20 inch diameter pool models of Intex. The assembling process is rather simple and any novice can tackle and do it on his own. 

The system flow rate for the pump is around 1180 GPH while the pump flow rate is 1500 GPH. There is again a timer function that you can set for anywhere between 2-12 hours. Along with there is an air release valve to remove the air that has been trapped inside the air filter. 

You also get a filter cartridge that is easy to clean and can be replaced when required. The hydro aeration technology provided ensures that negative ions remain on top of the water surface thus making it feel fresh. 

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Suitable for above ground pools
  • Timer function helps in pump getting shut off as per time set
  • The filter cartridge is easy to clean and can be changed with a new one

Cons

  • Faces problem with operations

SUNCOO Pro 2450GPH Sand Filter Pump

With a humongous capacity capable of storing 45 lbs. of sand the pump is suited to pools having 10,000 gallons of water. Made of high-quality material the pump is durable and going to last you for quite some time. 

The pump has a copper motor with an electric cable that allows the pump to process 2450 gallons per hour. There are 4 separate functions that the owner can use here which comprise of rinse, waste, backwash, and filter. 

The pump generates very little noise when it is operating and does not disturb you while it is in use. There is also a pressure gauge given that helps you find out the exact condition of the tank. 

Pros

  • Huge capacity
  • Strong material used making it long-lasting
  • Copper motor with an electric cable allows pumping large amounts of water
  • 4 Separate functions that the owner can choose from
  • Less noise produced hence no disturbance
  • Pressure gauge to know the condition of the tank

Cons 

  • Only suitable for large pools

Xtreme power US 2640GPH 13″ Sand Filter

The sand filter pump has a 13-inch tank and can store up to 42 pounds of sand. This makes it particularly suitable for pools with a capacity of 10000 gallons and above. It has been designed such that very low noise is generated thus making it a convenient use for you.

The filter given provides you optimum filtration and efficient backwashing to ensure that the processes keep moving smoothly. Very easy to assemble the pump takes less than 5 minutes to be operational. 

There is an integrated controller given which can be set with a timer so that the pump can shut off between 2-12 hours. 

Pros

  • 13-inch tank suitable for large pools
  • Low noise created leading to no disturbance
  • Easy to assemble
  • A timer that can be set between 2-12 hours
  • The thermal overload protector helps in keeping users safety in mind

Cons

  • The material used is not very strong

Intex Krystal Clear Saltwater systems with E.C.O.

With a capacity of 7000 gallons, this pump has a titanium electrolyte cell which uses natural salt to create natural chlorine. As a result, soft and freshwater is created that is devoid of any harmful chemicals. The process of electrocatalytic oxidation splits the water molecules into oxidants that remove all the harmful bacteria that could be present in the water.

The design of the pump is compact and sleek and it is quite easy to operate. In fact, the control panel given is digital so you can easily control the settings and have an idea of how the pump is performing. 

Pros

  • Electrocatalytic oxidation kills the bacteria
  • Electrolyte cell creates natural chlorine
  • The quality of water is highly maintained
  • Compact and sleek design
  • Digital panel that is easy to understand and use

Cons

  • The salt level remains high

Pentair 145201 Tagelus Top Mount Fiberglass Sand Pool Filter

Having Clearpro technology this top mount pool provides a clear and high quality of water at your disposal. With a pumping speed of 60 GPM, the filter can handle the requirements of an average-sized swimming pool with ease.

The design used is exclusive and quite sleek and makes the product a nice addition to your home. Using the filter is a breeze and installing it for operation is something that any person can handle. Measuring 24 inches in length and 41 ½ inches in height the product is a decent package at the price point it is available at.

Pros

  • Clear pro-technology providing clean water
  • Handles an average size swimming pool
  • Sleek and patented design
  • Easy usage and installation

Cons

  • Can’t find fittings appropriate for it.

XtremepowerUS 16″ Above Inground Swimming Pool

Having a strong sand filter system the pump provides superior quality water. It maintains the sand height at such a level that maximum water can be processed for any sedimentation seen. Its impeller has been designed with brass inserts which makes it a sturdy purchase good enough to last you for some time. 

Along with the pump, you receive the benefit of a 7-way multi-port filter which allows you to do a lot of things as per your choice. The pump is ideal for above ground pools and the capacity for it is around 10,000 gallons. 

Pros

  • Very strong sand filter system giving high-quality water
  • Sturdy and durable 
  • 7 Way multi-port filter
  • Suitable for large pools

Cons

  • No proper instructions are given

Radiant Complete Sand Filter System

This is a complete package for your swimming pool as it includes pool pump, tank, 3 high-pressure hoses, stainless steel clamps, and back hoses. That ensures that the water of your pool would remain at a top-quality level. 

The force with which this pump operates makes it a great choice for any kind of pool. Alongside this pump also has a see-through screen which allows you to see the progress of pumping. By ensuring great performance the pump remains an economical buy for the customers.

Pros

  • A complete package having loads of features
  • The high force generated can be used for any pool
  • Good looking and sturdy
  • See-through screen to see the extent of sedimentation

Cons

  • Difficult to set up

Pentair 160301 Clean & Clear Plus Fiberglass Reinforced Polypropylene Tank Cartridge Pool Filter 420 Square Feet

This innovative cartridge filter comes with an outsized filter area that lets it catch more dirt and impurities. The most notable thing about this filter system is that it has an effective filtration area of worth 420 square feet. On top of that, it has a flow rate of 150 gallons per minute. However, your system flow can be different depending on the exact plumbing size as well as other components of the overall system.

I had a pleasant experience with the filter; its speedy action turned one of my friends’ green and filthy looking puddle into a crystal-clear pool in no time. One thing to note is that it’s not corrosion-proof but corrosion resistant. But the unit seems very durable and reliable.

Pros

  • This NSF listed filter comes with a massive filter area for enhanced capacity with 1.5inch, 100% drain clean out port.
  • Comes with a high flow internal air relief as well as manual air relief valve.
  • Instant action, thanks to an effective filtration area of about 420 square feet and a flow rate of 150 gallons per minute.
  • Lasts a very long time thanks to the durable materials used
  • Perfectly works on gigantic pools. The friend I mentioned above had a 30,000-gallon deep-end pool.

Cons

  • Just like any other cartridge filter system, the Pentair 160301Clean & Clear Plus needs cleaning every year depending on your use
  • The pool system is comparatively expensive, but it is well worth the price.
  • Comes with just one-year-warranty

Hayward C5030 525 Square Foot SwimClear Cartridge Filter

Hayward might be better known for their sand filters, but they have pretty much changed their one-dimensional persona with the C5030 SwimClear. This is an innovative filter in cartridge technology with a cluster of 4 reusable elements for up to 425 square feet of immense capacity and extended filter cycles.

In addition to the quad-cluster cartridge elements that offer a great filter area, which can hold extra amount of dirt and impurities, several other features make it a great fit for any private pool. Firstly, it comes with a massive, tamper proof, clamp that holds the two –piece unit together, but also offers easy access to innards – which makes maintenance and repairs a breeze. Moreover, the CPVC union connection adds diversity to the unit, making it compatible with both 2-inch and 2.5-inch piping, offering extreme performance with the 2-inch full-flow internal piping.

Pros

  • Offers very fast clean-out, thanks to the 2.5 inbuilt drain
  • The quirky design lets you easily remove the cartridge elements
  • The unit is not only sturdy but can withstand immense heat because of Noryl bulkhead
  • Barely needs any maintenance, especially when compared with sand filters in the same class
  • The unit helps you preserve a lot of water as there is not water going to waste because of backwashing. This makes it an ideal unit for areas where water is in short supply.

Cons

  • With some units, people have complained an issue with the manifold. Though we personally had no such experience. But thanks to Hayward’s great customer service, you can get a replacement for it.
  • Cartridges need to be serviced/replaced, though not too often.
  • The price of the unit is on the higher side.

Hayward DE4820 Pro-Grid Vertical DE Pool Filter

Hayward DE4820 is a vertical grid filter, designed for in-ground pools as well as spas of all the different types and sizes. Just as the name suggests, it’s a DE based filter that pushed unfiltered water into filter elements and evenly distributes DE to grids.

The unit has the trademark Hayward design, with a heavy-duty, one-piece clamp that securely fits the tank top and the bottom together. This not only makes maintenance easy but also allows a convenient, quick access to innards, without requiring you to mess up the piping connections. The size and power of the Hayward DE4820 Pro-Grid Vertical DE Pool Filter make it an equally good choice for both commercial and residential use.

Pros

  • Durable build ensures years of non-corrosive, hassle-free performance
  • Available in a wide variety of sizes: 24, 36, 48,60,72-square foot, so you can choose one according to your pool size.
  • Made of Perma Glass XL, the filter offers ultimate strength and durability
  • In addition to combination pressure and cleaning cycle indicator gauge, the filter comes with a manual air relief and high-impact grid elements.
  • Easy to install and even easier to use. There is just one lever to turn that lets you control all the settings. If you’ve used any of the older filters, you’ll love this one
  • Great pro-active customer service. In fact, their Hayward service has reached out to people who had a bad experience and posted their review online to help them sort out their issue. Kudos!

Cons

  • The filter doesn’t come with a user manual. Although it’s very easy to install and use, an instruction manual is always nice.
  • The picture on most online stores show a slide However, that is not included with the filter. Not an issue with the product, but seems like a weird marketing ploy.
  • The packing isn’t great for a product that cost a decent amount of money.

Best Choice Products Pro Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump System

This cutting-edge, well-designed pool filter system has been specifically designed to keep your pool pristine while requiring minimal maintenance and consuming negligible power. Yet, its unique design allows an efficient way to suck water from the skimmer into the filter tank. It features a six-position multiport valve for easy operation.

You’ll be amazed to see clean water in your pool like never before. The trick behind its great performance is that it has a high capacity sand bed which causes water to get exposed o more surface area. This results in all the impurities getting caught in the sand and pure water leaving the filter. The Best Choice Products Pro Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump System is simple to install, easy to use and offers great filtration performance, quick backwashing, and stretched filter cycles. It’s one of the very few UL listed, thermal protected, and CSA certified filter systems available on the market.

Pros

  • Reasonably price filter system, yet very powerful as well as easy to use.
  • Has a massive 175lbs sand capacity
  • Comes with ETL listed mark, which means that your filter has been tested by an independent organization and meets the standards of applicable published safety.
  • The unique one-piece design is non-corrosive as well as sturdy.
  • Sand bed always stay level because of the internal filter design and water gets in contact with more surface area, ensuring cleaner water.
  • The dirtier the sand gets, the better the filter works and catches more impurities, so the performance keeps going up.

Cons

  • It’s not compatible with most pools out of the box so you might have buy fittings, 1 1/2 PVC pipe, PVC glue, Teflon tape, and other items to configure the
  • It does waste some water, so might not be the best choice where water is in short supply.
  • Although we may not call it fragile, yet it’s not as durable as compared to some other filters we have discussed above.

Hayward Perflex Extended-Cycle Above-Ground/In-Ground Pools D.E. Filter

This is an amazing little filter system available in three different models i.e. EC40AC, EC50AC, and EC75A, each ideal for the different type of pool. The most notable feature of the Hayward Perflex Extended-Cycle D.E. filter is that it has a bump handle that makes the flex-tubes clean themselves.

It’s a heavy-duty system that is extremely durable and offers corrosion-free performance for many years to come. The Hayward Perflex arguably offers the most comprehensive clean, as most other filters remove impurities down to five microns, while this little bad boy can catch down to one micron.

Pros

  • Can catch dust, pollen, and other impurities as small as one micron
  • Doesn’t waste any water or power – ideal for areas where water isn’t abundant
  • Works very fast, your pool can turn from milky to crystal in as short as two hours
  • Very quiet, you won’t even know if it’s running
  • Reasonably price
  • Small, lightweight and easy to use. Every once in a while, just hold the filter by the handle, and you can shake the DE powder to recoat the DE filter.

Cons

  • The plastic body doesn’t seem very durable, although we haven’t seen any cracks or damage yet.
  • The unit can get clogged, though not very often and is easy to fix, however, it is a nuisance.
  • The title can be a little misleading, the unit not compatible with in-ground pools; only the pump can be used with above ground

Conclusion

We have explored the very best filters available for both in-ground and above ground pools. Choose the one that’s right for your pool, and you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time swimming. Enjoy!

Read More:

Best Pool Filter

Pool Heater Reviews Consumer Reports

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Pool heaters might seem like systems that can only be afforded by the rich, but the truth is that anyone can easily afford them. However, it is not always easy to find the most affordable and the right model for your pool if you don’t read consumer reports.

That is why this article has looked at the best pool heater consumer reports to give you an idea of which models you should choose. Here I have listed seven heaters that are rated highly by users around the world and can last for years without showing any sign of wear. 

pool heater reviews consumer reports
By: Dona Hall

7 Pool Heaters: Consumer Reports for 2020

Let’s dive into the review of these pool heaters.

1. FibroPool FH055 In-Ground Swimming Pool Heater

The first model on this list is the FibroPool FH055 and is a heater that is recommended for all inground swimming pools. It is made of 100% titanium heat exchanger that ensures the heater transfers as much heat to the water as possible.  

One excellent feature of the heater is the ability to connect to a standard power source of 220V. That means it is a universal unit that you can use anywhere without worrying about anything. 

I also like its slim fit, meaning that it won’t require a lot of space to install. Besides, you don’t need to seek the service of a professional when installing it.

The heater has also certified to save energy to ensure that you don’t incur high operating costs. It also lasts for years without getting damage or rusting. It is a great heater.

2. Game 4714 SolarPRO Contour Solar Pool Heater

If you have a pool of 10K gallons, then this is the heater for you, and it is one of the most affordable units you can get from the market today. It is a system that is friendly to the environment and helps to heat the pool water to keep it warm.

You don’t need electricity to learn this heater or gas since it is a solar model – it is cost-effective when it comes to operating. The model can increase your pool temperature by five degrees F within six days. 

One thing you should note is that it is a unit for Best Way and Intex pools, and it comes with adapter for connecting to these pools. It is also made to last for years thanks to its sturdy construction and ability to withstand the harsh climate.

3. Pentair 460792 Stainless Steel MasterTemp Heater

One thing you should note is that Pentair is a reputable brand that has been around for decades, and you can always count on its products to give you the service you want. That is also true of this stainless steel heater that helps to warm the water in your swimming pool.

It is a system that helps to heat the water faster than most heaters on the market today. You are assured of having a warm pool or spa that you can dive into whenever you want.

The heater is rated as one of the best units you can get in its class thanks to its efficiency, and it has a manual gas shut-off. Besides, it is a low NOX emission unit that meets the industry standard to ensure that you heat using an environmentally friendly unit.

The unit is also quite affordable and lasts for years.

4. Hayward W3H150FDP Universal H-Series 150K BTU Pool and Spa Heater

W3H150FDP by Hayward is a universal heater that produces up to 150K BTU of heating to keep your swimming pool warm. It is the model for every pool owner who wants to enjoy the pool around the clock, no matter whether it is cold or warm outside.

The heat exchanger is made of cupro-nickel that guarantees efficient heat transfer to raise the water temperature faster. Besides, the material remains corrosion-free for years to provide your heater with a long-lasting life. 

Another great feature of the system is the hydraulic design that helps to reduce water circulation to save more energy. You can also access it via a front panel that makes it easy to operate compared to most products out there. 

It is also easy to maintain the heater and is certified for low NOx emission. It is a great heater that I can recommend to all pool owners.

5. Intex 28685E Above Ground Swimming Pool Water Heater Solar Mat

Intex 28685E is a pool heater solar mat that can warm your swimming pool using the sun. It might be a bit costly to install it, but you don’t need to incur any other cost when heating your pool. 

The system was designed to allow you to hit a small pool to enable you to swim even during the chilly nights. It is made of durable materials that give it a long life and ensure that you get value for your money.

One thing I like about this unit is the ease of installation. You don’t need to hire a professional to install it for you.

Moreover, it is a mat that can handle all manner of climate without getting damaged. It was made to last for years without leaking.

6. SunHeater S120U Universal Solar Pool Heater

Another pool heater that I would recommend you is the SunHeater S120U model, and it is a universal model that can fit most pools. I like it because it is easy to install – you can easily DIY – and it is the right heater for above ground and inground pools.

You can also install it on the fence, ground, rack, or roof, making it a great unit that can fit in any place. It also comes with a patented web design that allows it to capture the maximum sun’s light.

The model uses your existing pool pump to ensure that you don’t incur an additional cost when installing it. And it can raise the water temperature by about 10 degrees F.

The system also lasts for years to give you the service you desire for long. 

7. Kokido Keops Solar Dome Above Ground Swimming Pool Water Heater

You don’t need to shut your pool during the winter if you have the Kokido Keops Solar Dome. It is a model that was made for all above ground pools and can leave your pool feeling more comfortable during those cold days.

One great feature that I like about this unit is its environmentally friendly nature and ability to save heating energy. You can have peace of mind knowing that you won’t incur a lot of costs when heating your swimming pool. 

Unlike most pool heaters out there, this unit comes with a cover that you can use to protect it when you store it. It also lasts for years without getting damaged due to its sturdy construction and quality material.

I will recommend all pool owners to try this model if they want to enjoy a warm pool during the winter months.

Final Word

You can now go online or go to the market and get yourself an excellent pool heater to keep your facility warm during the cold days. Choose a model that is rated highly by other users and the one that can last for years.

Best Pool Heater Consumer Reports
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