Choosing the best filter for swimming pools: TOP 7 rating, types, characteristics, price

Building a swimming pool on a summer cottage or in a private house always means a good mood and a fun time during the warm season of the year. By no means, the whole structure does not end there, and now it is necessary to install a high-quality filter in the pool. It is simply necessary for water purification, because this factor is your safety and the safety of your family.

Filters maintain water in the required condition, in accordance with all hygiene standards and rules. Which one should you choose and not make a mistake if manufacturers offer a lot of options? Our article today will tell you about this. Happy reading!

Types and characteristics

Filter cleaning materials vary. Below you can study the types and characteristics of existing devices. So, the types of filters are divided into 3 types:

• Sandy . When choosing a sand filter, pay attention to the filler. It can be only sand, sand with gravel particles, and also with inclusions of anthracite or carbon. The more varied the filler, the higher the level of cleaning. Quartz sand must be completely replaced every 3 years, but there are options with more rare replacement, for example, glass sand is poured only once every 5 or 6 years.
• Diatomaceous earths . Manufacturers of diatomaceous earth filtration units claim that the use of fine powder (diatomaceous earth) allows for maximum water purity. The fine fraction of cleaning particles retains the smallest contaminants up to 1 micron in size, which is an undeniable advantage over sand analogues, although otherwise the operating principle of diatomaceous earth devices is no different. The filler layer is contained in self-cleaning steel elements coated with polypropylene. The water passes through the diatomaceous earth, is purified and discharged back into the pool, enriched with silicon.
• Cartridge . This type of filter is a small oblong installation in the form of a flask with a very simple internal structure. Under the cover there is a compartment for a replacement cartridge and a plastic garbage bag. Water seeps through the filter material of the cartridge, and large contaminants and small particles settle at the bottom, collecting in the bag. Suitable for infrequent pool treatment when the water in it is relatively clean.

How to serve?

To extend the life of a homemade filtration circulation unit, you need to pay attention to its maintenance.

Sand

A homemade sand filter requires weekly cleaning. To do this, backwash the filler with water. The water used during the washing process is not suitable for use in the pool - it must be thrown away.

Maintenance recommendations:

• the pump must not be covered with any materials;
• do not allow children to play near the installation;
• Clean the pump every month, as bacteria and dirt accumulate on the impeller;
• the place where the pump is located must be well ventilated.

The big disadvantage of sand fillers is their high rate of contamination. After 2-3 weeks, the sand collects in lumps, causing gaps to appear in the container - water passes through the voids without being purified. There are no such problems with coal and graphite.

Cartridge

For the cartridge type, regular cleaning of the filtrate is a prerequisite for maintenance . The contaminated cartridge is removed from the system (by removing the angle adapter), and cleaned by rinsing under running water, then mounted in place.

Rating TOP 7 best filters for swimming pools

Currently, there are many devices that purify pool water. Different prices, types and effectiveness allow each person to choose the ideal device, but what about quality? We studied the devices offered by manufacturers and selected 7 filters from them, which differ from their analogues in their high quality and efficiency. This TOP of the best includes the following products:

• Emaux SP650;
• Aquaviva S450 (D450);
• Bestway 58486;
• Hayward Star Clear C500;
• MTH (skimfilter) IS6;
• Hayward 33 cubic meters/hour;
• Aquaviva V700(B).

Let's take a closer look at the presented assortment.

Emaux SP650

These models are widely used throughout the world for mechanical cleaning of above-ground and in-ground swimming pools. They are economical, convenient and easy to maintain. Also, such devices have excellent performance. The equipment is recommended for pools with a volume from 30 to 62 thousand liters. The water mass is purified through a dense filtration layer of fine sand. Sand loading into the container is up to 145 kg.

Price category: from 13,000 to 16,000 rubles.

pool filter Emaux SP650

pros

• cast transparent lid allows you to monitor the amount of sand;
• selecting a filtration mode by simply turning the handle of the multi-mode valve and drain plug;
• The device is absolutely non-toxic.

Minuses

• The water in the pool should be no more than 40 degrees.

I bought this filter last year and have never regretted it. You know, manufacturers always sing about a lot of things just to lure a buyer, but with regards to the company presented, fortunately, everything is true. Despite the fact that this filter is sand type, it purifies water efficiently and effectively. Swimming in the pool is a pleasure. The water is transparent and protected from bacteria and any unnecessary organic matter. Thanks to the manufacturer, I recommend it to everyone!

Aquaviva S450 (D450)

The presented device is intended for mechanical water purification in private swimming pools and SPA pools. The filter is made of high-strength plastic and reinforced with fiberglass winding. This factor allows the device to withstand greater pressure and last longer. The filter unit consists of three main elements, namely a filter barrel, a 6-position valve with couplings and a circulation pump. The optimal combination of quality and reliability.

Cost: from 14,719 to 17,000 rubles.

pool filter Aquaviva S450 (D450)

pros

• makes water clear and clean;
• Effectively cleans swimming pools of 32,400 liters.

Minuses

• The maximum water temperature in the pool is 43 degrees.

Simple and convenient filter. I managed to do it even without installation instructions. Quite good quality, since I’ve had one filter for 3 years now. Replacement, I think, will also be easy in case of breakage or malfunction. With this device, I don’t have to worry about the health of my children, since the water is clean, without any harmful bacteria. Thanks to the production!

Bestway 58486

This filtering unit is a barrel of sand through which water is pumped. The presented device is equipped with a special six-position tap, thanks to which you can wash the sand without removing it from the barrel. Sand filters differ from analogues in their high quality of water purification, excellent performance and convenience and ease of use. Such devices require minimal maintenance. Sand needs to be changed once every few years.

Price tag: from 17888 to 23000 rub.

pool filter Bestway 58486

pros

• can efficiently clean a large pool volume (66,000 l);
• high productivity (9.8 cubic meters/h);
• makes water crystal clear and antibacterial.

Minuses

• a large amount of sand loaded into a barrel (36 kg).

Don't waste your money and buy this filter, I'm sure you won't regret it. I thought for a long time between different options, but still settled on Bestway. My pool is quite large - 60,000 liters, other devices could not boast of the ability to purify a large area of ​​​​water, but the presented filter did its job with a bang. Water is a song. Firstly, it is clean, secondly, there are no living creatures of any kind: midges, flies, etc., and thirdly, there are no microbes and various sticks. My family and I are happy!

Hayward Star Clear C500

The presented device is used for above-ground and in-ground pools, as well as swimming pools and spas - with a volume of up to 70,000 liters. Made from cast polymer, resistant to pressure, corrosion, and ultraviolet radiation. The filter has a rugged design that makes it easy to operate and connect. The device cartridge is made of a special fiber that provides ultra-fine water purification down to 20-25 microns. After installing the model, there is an immediate improvement in water quality that meets all hygiene standards.

Price tag: from 29,766 to 34,670 rubles.

pool filter Hayward Star Clear C500

pros

• does not require backwashing;
• durable body (material – molded plastic);
• The design of the model prevents debris from flowing back into the water.

Minuses

• Diatomite must be purchased separately.

This is the case when the price fully meets expectations. Before that, I bought a cheap filter that didn’t last even 2 months of use, and besides, the water was a swamp color, it was unlikely to purify anything. After installing Hayward Star Clear, I noticed a clear improvement in the quality of the water in the pool: that is, the liquid became transparent, the debris evaporated, and swimming in the pool is now a pleasure, since I know for sure that nothing dangerous threatens me and my family. I hope it lasts a long time. Thank you.

MTH (skimfilter) IS6

This model is perfect for ready-made pools, because the device is mounted directly to the side and does not require changes to the design of the bowl. It is supplied unassembled and, using PVC pipe adhesive, it is quickly and easily assembled into a single monoblock. The device takes water from the surface of the pool, processes it using a cartridge and returns the water back to the pool through a supply nozzle. Thus, the rate of water filtration increases and there is no need to connect the sewer directly to the skimmer. The skimmer must be turned off when having fun in the pool.

Price category: from 48,000 to 60,000 rubles.

pool filter MTH (skimfilter) IS6

pros

• a timer is provided to enable automatic mode;
• no need to connect the sewer directly to the skimmer;
• easy installation (directly to the side of the pool using PVC glue).

Minuses

• When swimming, you must turn off the filter.

Great device and pretty easy to install. The instructions indicate in detail how to assemble the structure, then you just need to attach the finished device to the side of the pool using glue. It couldn’t have been easier, although I thought I’d have to call a technician since it was my first time installing the filter. The quality of the device is also excellent, the water is clear, without unnecessary debris. Thank you

Hayward 33 cubic meters/hour

The presented filter has one powerful advantage over its analogues: the high quality of the device and the fineness of water purification (up to 2-5 microns). The device is made of reinforced polyester, resistant to high humidity and ultraviolet rays. A module consisting of nylon mesh is installed inside the filter, which is filled with diatomite backfill. Water purified with diatomite filters becomes crystal clear and transparent. Please note that the backfill is not included with the device.

Price tag: from 78,034 to 90,000 rubles.

pool filter Hayward 33 cubic meters/hour

pros

• excellent performance (33 cubic meters/h);
• resistant to humidity and ultraviolet rays;
• Effectively purifies water immediately after installation.

Minuses

• Diatomaceous earth is not included.

The quality of the device is really high, this is noticeable immediately after installation. Firstly, installation is simple and does not require outside help, and secondly, the material of the model is quite durable, which protects the device from corrosion and direct sunlight for a month. Cleaning the liquid in the pool is immediate; I have never observed the presence of debris or mold on the sides. I recommend it.

Aquaviva V700(B)

This device is intended for mechanical water purification in swimming pools and spas with a volume of up to 78,000 liters. The filter housing material is made of fiberglass. Quartz sand is used as a filter element. The container is reinforced with fiberglass winding and treated with a special impregnation. Equipped with a valve for 6 modes and universal couplings for 50 mm. Thanks to the presented device, the water in the pool remains clean and transparent for a long period of time.

Price category: from 23,299 to 27,800 rubles.

pool filter Aquaviva V700(B)

pros

• high productivity (20.16 cubic meters/h);
• suitable for cleaning a large pool area (up to 78,000 m);
• The fiberglass winding protects the device from leaks and direct sunlight.

Minuses

• not found.

An excellent device, with very high quality. Inexpensive maintenance and easy installation. I bought it 2 years ago and have not yet exchanged it for another device, as I am completely satisfied with this one. The water in the pool is crystal clear, the filter absorbs any speck of dust. I don’t worry about the safety of my children, and for this I thank the manufacturers very much.

Homemade cleaning device option

Tools and accessories:

• tank or can for 25-30 liters (plastic or aluminum);
• wooden stand;
• ready-made mesh filter 10-50 microns;
• centrifugal pump with impeller 650 W, 55 l/minute, head - 45 m;
• quartz sand from 0.5 to 1 mm;
• stainless steel mesh (0.5 mm cell cross-section) with a diameter equal to the diameter of the tank;
• plastic water pipes, elbows, fittings, “American” pipes, taps for creating a system.

Manufacturing process

First, you will need to put a little effort into making holes in the bottom of the tank and welding the threads so that they protrude from the outside and inside. The inner part is necessary for screwing on a mesh filter that will hold sand in the tank.

The filter has two holes at the ends. One should be plugged with a lid, and a thread with a diameter of 1 inch should be glued to the second . Screw the filter to the thread welded at the bottom of the tank.

Fill the tank 2/3 full with sand directly on top of the filter. You need to put a stainless mesh on top. This is necessary so that the debris does not get buried and is washed out faster during backwashing. Close the tank with a lid to make it airtight.

Assemble the water drainage system as shown in the photo . Connect it to the filter and pump. The first rinsing of the filter is done empty to drain small sand particles. Then you can close the system and filter the pool.

You can learn about making pool filters with your own hands here.

Comparison table of characteristics

In order to compare the presented products, we suggest taking a look at their characteristics in the table below.

Recommendations for use

These instructions will be useful if for some reason the passport for the device or a document in a foreign language is lost. In essence, the operating principle is the same.

How to pump water?

The procedure for connecting a surface pump:

1. Prepare hoses, connecting fittings, check valve with filter, adapter for the second outlet, connecting fittings, fasteners, wrenches, tape measure, electrical tape, soldering iron.
2. Place the pump on a board base. It should be smooth. For stability, secure the unit with anchor bolts.
3. Connect the supply hose. Attach a check valve with a strainer to it. Tighten all joints with a coupling with external thread.
4. Connect the upper part of the hose to the pump.
5. Immerse the hose in the well or well. The check valve must be submerged 30 cm.
6. Check the system before starting.
7. Pour water into the pump through the hole so that the entire line at the inlet and outlet is filled.
8. Close the filler hole.
9. Connect the pump to the mains, it is ready for use.

Drain

Inflatable and frame pools have a drain hole to which a hose is connected. Drainage is done in a pre-designed place - a reservoir, sewer, septic tank, storm drain. If there is a lot of water left at the bottom, you need to use a submersible pump.

Procedure:

• 
  prepare hoses of at least 15 m in advance, calculate their number so that the length is sufficient to reach the drain;

• install a drainage pump, connect hoses to it;
• turn on the pump, immerse it in the pool;
• As the bowl is emptied, pour water over the sides to wash away the dirt.

If a sand filter is installed, then connect it and turn on the backwash - and the water will drain and the sand will be cleaned. But before the procedure, it is important to filter the water.

Clean the bowl

When the bulk of the water has already been drained from the pool, it’s time to start cleaning the sides and bottom:

1. Wash the sides with a hose and brush over them to remove plaque.
2. Disassemble half of the pool (if frame), press the side to the ground and expel the water with a brush, cleaning the bottom.

The pool is ready to dry and pack for storage until next season.

Read more about cleaning a pool without draining it here.

Best lists

In addition to the above list of models, we have created another list of the best devices, distinguished from each other by their special characteristics. This TOP includes the following devices:

• Inexpensive.
• Sand.
• Cartridge.

Let's take a closer look at the range presented.

TM Intex (28602) – inexpensive

The presented filter is recommended for the installation of round pools with a diameter of 183 and 244 cm and rectangular ones with a size of up to 300 cm. It is connected to the standard openings of the pool using two corrugated hoses. Power consumption is only 30 W, and productivity is 1250 liters per hour. Purifies the water in the pool in accordance with the norms and rules of hygiene.

Price category: from 1650 to 2700 rubles.

pool filter TM Intex (28602)

INTEX 26652 – sand

The presented filter with a capacity of 10,000 liters per hour can be used to clean frame and inflatable pools with a diameter of 549 cm or more. This device is capable of operating in six different modes and, among other things, has a timer that automates its operation cycle. There is also an emergency shutdown and a mode for backwashing the filter element if it becomes dirty during operation. This device perfectly purifies water in a pool or any other body of water, allowing you to feel comfortable in the aquatic environment without worrying about your health.

Price: from 14990 to 21300 rubles.

pool filter INTEX 26652

220-240V JILONG FILTER PUMP 29P415EU – cartridge

The presented device traps dust, small debris and various debris inside the filter cartridge. Using the device is very simple, just attach the hose to the filter pump body and connect it to a 220 V network. Each pump is tested and factory tested. This filter pump is recommended for water purification in frame pools with a diameter of 366 cm.

Price category: from 3000 to 3600 rub.

pool filter 220-240V JILONG FILTER PUMP 29P415EU

Filtration system installation

Basic steps to implement a comprehensive cleaning system for large swimming pools:

• selection of main and additional pumps;
• installation of mechanical and chemical filters;
• installation of ionization, ozonation, UV;
• selection of heat exchanger;
• preparing premises for pumping equipment; complete set and assembly of the system.

When designing a complex filtration system, it is necessary to carry out all the work before installing the pool. Otherwise, the work on laying communications and connecting will become significantly more complicated. It is also important not to forget when designing about organizing a good ventilation system for the pool.

Let's consider the order of connecting the filtration system:

1. Unscrew the screw of the clamping clamp.
2. Remove the six-way valve.
3. Remove the sprocket from the filter and then install it in the filtration barrel, carefully closing the hole.
4. Pour quartz sand with a grain size of 0.4-0.8 mm into the barrel. Sand must not get into the sprocket pipeline!
5. Clean the neck of the barrel from grains of sand and begin assembling the base.
6. Place the six-way valve on the pipeline and secure it to the end of the filter housing using a clamp.
7. Make a connection.

Important! The pump is started only when the pool is filled with water, otherwise the equipment may fail. Air must be removed from the hoses.

What to look for when choosing

When choosing a filter, you must consider the following recommendations.

• Pool location . Depending on the outdoor or home pool, different types of filters are selected for it. For example, sand models are more suitable for outdoor pools, while diatomaceous earth and cartridge models are considered universal, so they are suitable for a pool with any location.
• Frequency of pool use. The less frequently the pond is used, the less powerful the filter should be.
• Fasteners . Cartridge filters are attached to the side of the pool, while other types are installed next to the water tank.
• Volume . The power of the device depends on the volume. This factor must be clarified with specialists at the time of purchase.

Which company should you choose?

Pool pumps play an important role in cleaning pools and circulating water inside an artificial pond. Therefore, to maintain water hygiene and safe use of the pool, it is important to choose a quality pump.

The most functional and reliable models in 2021, according to customer and expert reviews, are produced by four companies:

• Intex, Bestway, Jilong (China);
• Summer Escapes (USA).

The listed manufacturers produce both budget and expensive models of pool pumps. Therefore, the buyer can choose a model with the optimal balance of required characteristics, workmanship and price.

Review of heat pump models

The review included air-to-water heat pumps, as they are the easiest to use and do not require special and complex calculations. There is no fundamental difference between heat pumps for home heating and swimming pool heating.

Thermal unit #1 – Zodiak

Zodiak is a representative of the French company for the maintenance and care of swimming pools.

It occupies a leading position thanks to the constant introduction of innovative developments, such as a water robot vacuum cleaner.

The pump is installed after the filter and before the disinfection systems. The pump must be mounted closer to the pool to reduce heat loss

Main characteristics:

• power consumption - 1.6 kW;
• thermal power - 9 kW;
• water flow - 4000 l/h.

The pump heat exchanger is made of titanium. Special electrical and water connectors make installation easy. The device is equipped with a digital display.

Thermal unit #2 – Azuro

Azuro is a trademark of a Czech manufacturer. Specializes in the production of frame pools, equipment and accessories. Particularly popular are models made specifically for the garden.

At air temperatures below +8 °C it has very low efficiency, and at +35 °C there is a danger of overheating

In order not to move the heat pump every time, it is installed under a canopy.

Main characteristics:

• power consumption - 1.7 kW;
• thermal power - 8.5 kW;
• pool volume - 20-30 m3.

The heat exchanger material is titanium. Digital display and built-in thermostat. There is an automatic evaporator defrost function. Easy installation.

Thermal unit #3 – Fairland

Fairland is a Chinese manufacturer founded in 1999. The company specializes in the design and production of thermal equipment. Successfully sells products in more than fifty countries.

Inverter technology allows you to regulate the power of the turbine and compressor over an extended range

Such a pump can be connected to the heating system of the dacha.

Main characteristics:

• power consumption - 1.7 kW;
• thermal power - 7.5 kW;
• water flow - 4000-6000 l/h.

Like previous models, the heat exchanger is made of titanium. Due to the use of inverter technology, it has extended operating conditions: from -7 degrees to +43 °C.

The device is equipped with a soft start to avoid power surges. All control occurs from the digital panel.

The development of technology every year makes the use of heat pumps more and more efficient. The average payback period for a heat pump is 4-5 years.