Sand filter vs cartridge filter: Sand wins for most residential pools

Sand filters are simpler and cheaper to maintain — backwashing takes five minutes with no replacement parts. Cartridge filters catch finer particles (10–15 microns vs 20–40) but require pulling and hosing the cartridge every four to six weeks. For typical backyard pools, the clarity difference doesn’t matter. Choose sand for set-and-forget, cartridge only if you’re obsessive about water clarity and don’t mind the extra work.