Dual filter idea.

I have a hayward DE filter. I like DE as it is the superior filtering media. I do not like DE as it is a PITA, particularly when you are getting started. A whole lotta bumping and flushing expensive DE.

I was thinking about finding a cartridge filter on CL cheap. Use it to start off the season and get all the muck out of my pool, then when it gets close to clear, switch over to DE.

After thinking about this for a bit, I got to wondering about an inline setup with the cartridge ahead of the DE. I would think that a DE filter that had a steady diet of cartridge filtered water would go a very long time between bumps and maybe even the whole season without a flush.

My new (to me) Pac fab Challenger 1 HP pump moves an amazing amount of water in high speed, so I think it would have no trouble pushing enough water.

I see cartridge pumps on CL all the time cheap. I think it would pay for itself in DE savings in a season or two.

I have 2 Hayward EC75 DE filters on my 38,200 gallon pool and I never have to flush between opening in the spring (usually 2nd week of May) and closing (usually 2nd to 3rd week of October).

What size is your pool and filter?


Regards,

Mark

Maybe plumb the cartridge filter so that it creates a bypass around the DE filter. A couple of ball valves and tees. Then switch to the DE path when you're ready. Look at the pressure drop across the proposed cartridge filter before you stick it inline. You may find what comes out is not enough for the DE.