• There are many filter options for water purification.pool image by Yuri Osadchi from Fotolia.com
  
  There are many alternatives to pool sand filters. Many pool and spa owners are disappointed with the quality of their sand filters and begin exploring the options that they have outside of this filter type. Several other filter options will increase pump effectiveness and increase the water quality. Increased filter quality reduces the amount and cost of cleaning chemicals. This will help pool and spa owners reduce the time spent on maintenance and cleaning.
  
  

DE Filters

• Diatomaceous earth is used in DE filters to increase the amount of debris that is filtered out of the water. DE earth particles consist of the tiny fossilized exoskeletons of diatoms. The extremely small size of these particles filters out some of the smallest debris that is found in water. This filter media mixed with cleaning chemicals in the water will remove nearly all impurities and biological wastes. DE filters are known for their effective running cycles and the high water quality that they produce. DE filters are one of the most popular methods of filtration for pools of all sizes.
  
  

Ion filters

• Ion filters use a process of electrolysis to emit copper and silver ions into the water that destroy algae and bacteria found in the water. The addition of an ion filter to a pool or spa allows users to reduce chemical levels drastically and will remove the side effects of chemicals altogether. Ion filters are great for people who have strong allergies or reactions to the cleaning chemicals that are used in pools to reduce bacteria. Ion filters work by releasing copper and silver ions in the water. Copper ions penetrate the fragile cell structure of algae and bacteria while sliver reduces the life span of small organisms. Ion filters will often need to be used in conjunction with a mechanical filtration method to remove larger particles in the water.
  
  

Cartridge Filters

• Cartridge filters are a cheap alternative to sand filters and remove a large amount of debris using a mechanical cartridge. Cartridge filters have a cheaper installation price and remove debris effectively. Cartridges will need to be replaced on a regular basis and can add an unwanted reoccurring expense. Cartridges will also require a large amount of chemicals to balance the pool's water quality. Cartridge filters can be combined with ion filtration to help reduce the chemicals in the water and to help eliminate smaller debris and organisms in the water. This combination will also help reduce chemical costs.