Pleated vs Micron vs Ceramic Spa Filters (Spa filters explained)
If you are in the market for a new spa filter, it is important to understand the available types and how they work. In this article, we will discuss the difference between the main types of spa filters including polyester pleated filters and micron filters.
What is a spa filter and what does it do?
A spa filter is a device that is used to remove impurities from spa water. It is usually cylindrical in shape. It works by trapping contaminants and debris in the filter media, which prevents them from recirculating back into the spa. Spa filters need to be replaced periodically to maintain optimal performance.
There are two main types of spa filters: polyester pleated filters and micron filters. Ceramic material is used in some filters but is much less common.
Polyester pleated filters are the most common type of spa filter. They are made of multiple layers of polyester fabric that are pleated to increase the surface area.
This allows them to trap more contaminants than a flat filter. Micron filters are less common, but they are becoming more popular due to their ability to trap smaller contaminants.
It’s important to keep your spa filters clean to keep the water flowing evenly through your spa.
Think of a spa filter like rocks and sand in a stream or river that filter out dirt and debris - as the water flows through rocks and sand, dirt and debris are caught and held upstream, while cleaner water flows through.
If your filter becomes dirty it will eventually reduce the flow rate of water in your spa - like a river that gets dammed up by debris after a flood.
Dirty filters can also result in extra wear on your pump motor as it has to work harder to circulate water throughout your spa.
How do filter cartridges work?
A spa filter works by circulating water through pleated media in order to trap dirt and impurities.
The water flow is directed through the pleats, which creates a larger surface area for the water to come into contact with the media. This allows the filter to trap more impurities than a traditional flat filter.
The pleated media also helps to increase the water flow, which is essential for preventing the build-up of dirt and debris. In order to maintain optimal performance, it is important to clean the filter on a regular basis. This will help to prevent the filter from becoming clogged and will also extend its lifespan.
In most spa pools and hot tubs, pleated filters are used as the main filters, and sometimes a micron filter is used as a secondary filter.
What are pleated paper spa water filters?
Pleated paper filters are the most common type of cartridge filter. They are made of a 'paper-like' material which is usually made from a polyester or polypropolyene blend which is folded into 'pleats'.
The pleats help to increase the surface area of the material, which allows for more efficient filtering. They are used to remove dirt, debris, and oils from water. pleated water filters are often used in home water filtration systems, as they are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace.
However, pleated water filters can become clogged over time and need to be cleaned and replaced periodically, depending on the usage.
What are the benefits of pleated spa water filters?
Pleated filters have a number of benefits, including:
- Increased surface area than a flat filter for better filtration
- More efficient than traditional flat filters
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Relatively inexpensive to purchase and replace
What are the disadvantages of pleated spa water filters?
Pleated filters also have a few disadvantages, including:
- Can become clogged over time and need to be replaced periodically
- Not as effective at removing smaller particles from water (micron rating)
What is micron filter media? (Purezone)
A micron water filter is a type of filter that is able to remove incredibly small particles of dirt and debris from the water. Micron filters are often used in industrial settings and home water filtration where it is important to remove all contaminants from water.
Conventional pleated spa pool filters trap particles as small as 50 microns (50/1000th of a millimetre) the Purezone micro filtration is 10 times more effective, trapping particles as small as 5 microns.
Purezone filters do not require cleaning. They are disposable and should be replaced every 3-5 months. You can recognize a Purezone (micron) filter by its distinctive honeycomb appearance.
The name 'micron' refers to the size of particles that can get through the filter - the holes tiny holes in the filter are sometimes referred to as 'pores'.
Micron filters can filter much smaller particles than standard pleated filters. They tend to have a mesh pattern on them, instead of the vertical pleats that pleated filters have.
There are a variety of different micron filter media products available on the market, which vary in terms of their efficacy.
What are the benefits of using micron filter media?
Micron filter media has a number of benefits.
- Smaller particle filtering
- Micron filters can trap and remove smaller particles and impurities in the water.
- No cleaning needed
- Micron filters do not require any cleaning, they are simply disposed of and replaced after about 3-4 months.
What are the drawbacks of using micron filter media?
- Micron filters are more expensive
One potential drawback of using micron filter media is that it can be more expensive than other types of filters. This is because the manufacturing process of this type of filter is more complex.
- Micron spa filters need to be replaced more often
Additionally, micron filter media products need to be replaced more frequently than other types of filters.
- Micron filters reduce water flow rate
Micron filters reduce the water flow rate in your spa, so ensure your spa is designed to take them before you install them. Micron filters cannot be used in conjunction with a spa heat pump as they restrict the flow rate too much.
- Can't clean them easily
Because of the nature of micron filters, they can't be cleaned and need to be replaced after about 3-4 months.
What are ceramic spa filters?
Ceramic spa filters are a type of filter media that can be used in hot tubs and spas. They are made of a porous material, usually clay or diatomaceous earth, that can trap small impurities and contaminants.
Because they are so dense, they last longer than other types of filter media and require less cleaning. In addition, because they are made of natural materials, they are environmentally friendly.
While ceramic spa filters are more expensive than other types of filter media, many people believe that they are worth the investment.
What are the advantages of ceramic spa filters?
There are many advantages to using ceramic spa filters, including:
- They last longer than other types of filter media and require less cleaning.
- Ceramic filters are made of natural materials, so they are environmentally friendly.
- Ceramic filters can trap small impurities and contaminants.
What are the drawbacks of ceramic spa filters?
Ceramic filters also have a few disadvantages, including:
- Can be more expensive than other types of filter media
- Not as effective at removing smaller particles from water (micron rating)
- Require more frequent cleaning than other types of filters
- Only suitable for certain spa models
What does the filtration area mean on a filter?
The filtration area on a filter is a measure of the amount of square footage that the filter is able to cover and is the total surface area that is exposed to water.
The filtration area is determined by the number and size of the pleats in the filter. The more pleats there are, and the longer they are, the greater the filtration area.
To measure the filtration areas, you can unroll a filter and flatten out all the pleats, then take a measurement of the width and height of the media - that will give you the total surface area of the filter.
The filtration area is important because it determines how much dirt and debris the filter can remove from the water. The larger the filtration area, the more efficient the filter will be at removing contaminants.
In addition, the filtration area also affects how often the filter will need to be replaced. A larger filtration area will mean that the filter can be used for a longer period of time before it needs to be replaced.
How do I maintain my spa filters?
As any spa owner knows, keeping the filters clean is essential for maintaining a healthy and enjoyable spa experience. Fortunately, there are some simple steps that can be taken to keep your filters in top condition.
First, be sure to rinse them regularly with a garden hose. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
Second, soak the filters in a filter cleaning solution at least once a month. This will help to remove any buildup of oils or scum that can cause clogging and decreased water flow.
Finally, be sure to change your filters every 12-18 months. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your spa filters will continue to provide years of trouble-free operation.
How do I find the right replacement spa filter?
With just a few measurements and a bit of basic information, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect replacement for your old filter.
The first step is to measure the length and diameter of your filter. Be sure to measure from end to end, including any end caps.
Next, take note of the thread type - this will help you determine which type of replacement filter you need.
Finally, take a look at the filter media (pleated, or micron) Depending on the type of spa you have, you may need a specific type of media in order to keep your water clean and clear. With these measurements and bits of information in hand, finding the right replacement spa filter is a breeze.
Still not sure, read our other articles on spa filters, or reach out to us for help.
What is the Vortex® Purezone™ filter?
The Vortex® Purezone™ filter is a type of micron filter media designed to capture smaller particles of dust, dirt and oils in your spa water.
215 x 125mm Vortex Cam Lock Filters 3PK - 3 Pleated Filters
What is the Jacuzzi® Pro-Clarity™ Micron spun bound filter?
The Jacuzzi® Pro-Clarity™ Micron spun bound filter is a type of micron filter media designed to capture smaller particles of dust, dirt and oils in your spa water.
Got more spa filter questions?
Talk to us on live chat, or email us your spa questions and we'll be happy to help!
