A sound pool filtration system is all you need to keep your swimming pool Clean and healthy. “Do I need DE in my pool filter?” is often asked among pool service companies and homeowners who want low-maintenance living. Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a commonly used filter media, but whether you need it depends on a few factors. So, in this article, we will look into whether DE should be inserted in your pool filter and how robot pool cleaners like Beatbot AquaSense Pro make your pool maintenance more manageable and better.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) – What is that?
Diatomaceous earth (DE, diatomite) is a soft, delicate, powdery substance composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, a microscopic aquatic organism. DE is a popular filter media because it can trap very fine particles and impurities that other filter media may not be able to capture. DE filters offer exceptional filtration quality, which makes them an attractive option for those seeking crystal-clear water in their pools.
Is DE Necessary in Your Pool Filter?
Whether you should use DE or not in your pool filter ultimately depends on the needs of your pool, how much work you want to put into it, and what kind of filtration system you have. Let’s break it down:
Filter Type Matters
The three types of pool filters are sand filters, cartridge filters, and DE filters. Each type has its advantages:
DE Filters are the most effective at removing small particles and debris. They are commonly used in pools with greater debris levels or requiring finer filtration. DE filters are ideal for finding maximum clarity, but they need regular maintenance, so if you have the budget and time, they may be the right product for you.
Sand Filtration: Sand filters are often used to clean and maintain the pool. Although they don’t filter as fine particles as DE filters, they’re easier to service and less expensive.
Cartridge Filter: These filters are usually placed between sand and DE filters for filtration effectiveness and upkeep. However, they are low-maintenance and still provide a good level of filtration.
Low-Maintenance Pool Owners
If you value low-maintenance living and prefer less time maintaining your pool, DE may not be necessary for your filter. Our robot pool cleaners, like Beatbot AquaSense or Beatbot AquaSense Pro, take care of the bulk of this cleaning, meaning you can rely less on heavy filtration. These automatic cleaners can lessen the load on your filtration system so that you can use a sand or cartridge filter instead of a DE filter.
Fine Particle Filtration
If your pool collects very fine dust, algae, or pollen, you may also want DE filters to keep the water crystal clear. DE filters can trap smaller particles than sand or cartridge filters to a degree that other systems are unable to. However, if your pool is relatively clean and contains few fine particles, then you may not need the added filtration that DE provides.
How to Maintain a DE Filter
When using DE in your pool filter, you’ll need to maintain it properly to ensure it works efficiently:
Organic Cleaner: The DE filter requires routine backwashing to eliminate the accumulated debris. Backwashing is required when the filter pressure increases by 8-10 psi.
Recharging the DE: After backwashing, you’ll need to add fresh DE powder to the filter so that it can perform its intended function—filtering the water. This is an additional maintenance step associated with DE filters.
Check for Caked DE: DE can cut and reduce the overall effectiveness of your filters over time. Checking your DE filter’s condition is vital to ensuring it is running at its optimal performance.
Using Robot Pool Cleaners for Pool Care
A robot pool cleaner like Beatbot can relieve some of the burden on your filter. DE offers better filtration, but a pool cleaning robot clears debris out before entering the filter system. For instance, a robot cleaner for swimming pools can vacuum leaves, dirt, and other debris from the pool floor, which reduces the load on the filter.
Beatbot AquaSense Pro is perfect for day-to-day cleaning work, keeping water clean, and decreasing how often backwashing is needed.
A robot pool vacuum can help keep your pool clean between backflushed, so you won’t have to rely as much on DE for fine particle filtration.
Is a DE Pool Filter Right for You?
Ultimately, adding DE to your pool filter concerns what you consider more important. Value: DE can be a good option if you are looking for the highest level of filtration and are willing to put in the extra maintenance. Alternatively, get a robot pool cleaner such as Beatbot AquaSense Pro for low-maintenance solutions, which will lighten your filtration system workload.
People who own a pool may find themselves handling the dirty details of backwashing their pool continuously without the need to soak up chemicals and cleaning solutions each time. Pair it with a pool vacuum robot to help keep your pool in excellent shape and save time on manual cleaning.
Adhere To This Pool Maintenance Checklist
Know Your Pool Filter Type: First, examine your filtration system and determine if DE will benefit your pool.
Invest in a Robot Cleaner outside the pool: A robot pool cleaner, like the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, can work the rest around in the pool while you kick back, reducing the strain on the filter and the time you have to do the work manually.
Keep Your DE Filter Clean: When using DE, backwash often and rebound with new DE power.
Add a Pool Vacuum Robot: A vacuum cleaner for the pool can make cleaning even more efficient.
Conclusion
DE in your pool filter can also improve filtration, particularly for pools with fine debris. But if you want low-maintenance living and reduce the demand on your filter system, an automated pool cleaner like Beatbot AquaSense can do the job. With or without DE, having the right tools to maintain your pool will keep the water clean and clear all season long!
