If you own a swimming pool, you know that maintaining clear, clean water is essential for keeping it safe and enjoyable.
One of the most important aspects of pool maintenance is the filtration system.
Choosing the right pool filter can make a big difference in the quality of your pool water and the ease of maintenance.
In this article, we’ll compare two popular pool filter systems from Pentair: the 420 and the 520.
We’ll discuss their similarities, differences, and which one may be the better choice for your pool.
Understanding Pool Filters
Before we dive into the differences between the Pentair 420 and 520, it’s important to understand how pool filters work. There are three main types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, but they all serve the same purpose of removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the pool water.
Sand filters use a layer of sand to trap debris and dirt particles. They are easy to maintain but may require more backwashing than other types of filters.
Cartridge filters use a pleated filter cartridge to trap debris and dirt particles. They require less maintenance than sand filters but may need to be replaced more frequently.
DE filters use a powder made from fossilized diatoms to trap debris and dirt particles. They offer the best filtration but require more maintenance and can be more expensive.
Pentair 420
The Pentair 420 is a high-performance cartridge filter system designed for residential and small commercial pools. It features a four-cartridge design and a 420 square foot filtration area, making it ideal for pools up to 35,000 gallons.
Features
- Four-cartridge design
- 420 square foot filtration area
- Easy-access filter cartridges
- Fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene tank
- Clamp ring closure for easy maintenance
Pros
- Easy to maintain
- High filtration efficiency
- Suitable for most residential and small commercial pools
- Durable construction
- Energy-efficient design
Cons
- May require more frequent cartridge replacement than other types of filters
- Not suitable for large commercial pools
Pentair 520
The Pentair 520 is a high-performance DE filter system designed for residential and commercial pools. It features a 520 square foot filtration area and a vertical grid design, making it ideal for pools up to 60,000 gallons.
Features
- Vertical grid design
- 520 square foot filtration area
- Easy-access serviceable components
- Heavy-duty tank clamp
- Heavy-duty, tamper-proof one-piece flange clamp
Pros
- High filtration efficiency
- Suitable for larger residential and commercial pools
- Durable construction
- Energy-efficient design
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- Requires more maintenance than cartridge filters
- More expensive than cartridge filters
Comparing the Pentair 420 and 520
Both the Pentair 420 and 520 are high-quality filter systems that offer excellent filtration performance. However, there are some key differences between them that may make one a better choice for your pool than the other.
Filtration Efficiency
Both the Pentair 420 and 520 offer high filtration efficiency, but the 520 has a slight edge in this area due to its DE filtration system. DE filters offer the best filtration performance of any type of pool filter and can trap particles as small as 5 microns. Cartridge filters, like the ones used in the Pentair 420, can trap particles as small as 10-20 microns.
Pool Size
The Pentair 420 is suitable for pools up to 35,000 gallons, while the Pentair 520 is suitable for larger pools up to 60,000 gallons. If you have a smaller residential pool, the Pentair 420 may be the better choice for you. However, if you have a larger commercial pool or a high-use residential pool, the Pentair 520 may be a better fit.
Maintenance
Both the Pentair 420 and 520 are designed for easy maintenance, but the level of maintenance required differs between the two. Cartridge filters, like the ones used in the Pentair 420, require less maintenance than DE filters, like the ones used in the Pentair 520. Cartridges should be cleaned or replaced every 6-12 months, while DE grids should be cleaned or replaced every 3-5 years.
Cost
The Pentair 520 is generally more expensive than the Pentair 420 due to its DE filtration system and larger filtration area. However, the higher upfront cost of the Pentair 520 may be offset by its longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pool filter system is an important decision that can impact the quality of your pool water and the ease of maintenance. The Pentair 420 and 520 are both excellent options for residential and commercial pools, but they have some key differences to consider.
If you have a smaller residential pool and want a low-maintenance filter system with good filtration efficiency, the Pentair 420 may be the better choice for you. If you have a larger pool or a high-use pool and want the best filtration performance possible, the Pentair 520 may be the better choice despite its higher upfront cost and higher maintenance requirements.
Ultimately, the choice between the Pentair 420 and 520 comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Consult with a pool professional to help you make the best decision for your pool.
FAQs
- What is the main difference between the Pentair 420 and 520?
- The main difference is the type of filtration system used. The Pentair 420 uses cartridge filters, while the Pentair 520 uses DE filters.
- How often do I need to replace the filter cartridges in the Pentair 420?
- Filter cartridges should be cleaned or replaced every 6-12 months, depending on usage.
- Can I use the Pentair 520 on a small residential pool?
- While the Pentair 520 is suitable for smaller residential pools, it may not be the most cost-effective option due to its higher upfront cost and maintenance requirements.
- What is the lifespan of a DE filter grid in the Pentair 520?
- DE grids should be cleaned or replaced every 3-5 years, depending on usage.
- Are there any other factors to consider when choosing a pool filter system?
- Other factors to consider include the size and shape of your pool, the amount of use it gets, and your budget. Consult with a pool professional to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.