All filters need some sort of media which filters particles from your pool water. There are many different options, one of which is glass. Glass is becoming a more popular filtration method because it is made from recycled particles and works really well to produce clear, sparkling water.
Glass filtration first made its appearance in the 1990’s as an alternative to sand filtration. It primarily comes from recycled glass material that manufacturers do not want to reuse- scrap glass. Ever since it’s introduction it has grown in popularity for a number of reasons:
- Glass has a slight negative charge which attracts fine particles.
- The weak charge results in more efficient backwashing.
- Filtration takes place in the entire bed depth of the filter, not just the first six inches like sand.
- Glass can filter down to 9 microns.
- Glass media saves water because it requires less backwashing, that saves you money.
- It can last 10 years or longer, much longer than sand media.
Our thoughts on sand media filtration:
- Sand is the traditional filter media.
- It is dependable and delivers predictable results.
- The more it is run, the sand can catch finer and finer particles.
- It needs to be replaced every five to eight years.
- Over time, sand can clump or calcify so that requires more backwashing- which means more water usage.
Overall, either filtration media would do the job. You have to weigh the pros and cons. Ask the Pool Guy professionals recommend a combination of both sand and glass media. We have found this provides the best of both worlds. For more information on filtration systems, give us a call!