Pool Equipment Guide: Pumps, Filters, Heaters & More

Understanding your equipment pad

The equipment pad is the working heart of your pool. For South Florida homeowners, good equipment means balancing performance, running cost and durability in a hot, humid climate. Whether you are building new or upgrading an aging system, knowing what each part does helps you spend wisely. EDX Pools handles pump and filter work, salt systems, lights and moving equipment pads. See pool equipment.

Prices depend on brand, pool size and what is already in place. We describe general differences below, and EDX quotes free on site.

Pumps: the most important choice

Variable-speed vs. single-speed

The pump moves water through the filter, heater and sanitizer. In our climate it runs many hours a day, so efficiency matters.

• Single-speed: Runs at one fixed speed. It costs less up front, but it uses more electricity, is louder and often wears out sooner.
• Variable-speed: Adjusts its speed for the task. It costs more up front, runs quietly and can use far less electricity, which is why many owners recover the price difference over time.

Efficiency rules for pool pumps have tightened in recent years, and local requirements can apply to replacements. Check current requirements with your contractor or your city's building department. For most homeowners we would point to a variable-speed pump.

Filters: DE, cartridge and sand

Diatomaceous earth (DE)

DE filters catch the finest particles and give very clear water. They need backwashing and fresh DE added afterward, and a periodic deep clean.

Cartridge

Cartridge filters trap debris in pleated elements. They need no backwashing, so they waste less water. You hose the cartridge off every few weeks to months and replace it every year or two. They are a popular choice for homes.

Sand

Sand filters are simple and low-cost but filter less finely than the others. The sand needs replacement every several years. Many owners moving to a cleaner look choose to switch to cartridge or DE.

Heaters: extending the swim season

South Florida water can get too cool for comfort in winter. A heater extends the season.

Heat pumps

A heat pump pulls heat from the air and moves it into the water. Because our winters are mild, heat pumps tend to be efficient here and cost less to run than gas for continuous heating. They heat more slowly.

Gas heaters

Gas heaters warm water quickly regardless of air temperature, which makes them a good fit for spas or occasional heating. They typically cost more to run if you heat for long periods.

Many homes with a spa use a heat pump for the pool and gas for fast spa heating. Ask us which mix fits your use.

Automation

Automation connects the pump, heater, lights and features to one panel or phone app. See our automation guide for what it controls and what to look for.

Other equipment worth knowing about

• Salt chlorine system: Makes chlorine from salt. See saltwater vs. chlorine.
• LED lights: Use less power and last longer than older lights. See the pool lighting guide.
• Skimmers: A cracked or poorly sealed skimmer can leak. EDX replaces skimmers and tests for skimmer throat leaks.

Ways to cut energy use

• Run a variable-speed pump at the lowest speed that still keeps the water clean.
• Keep the filter clean. A dirty filter makes the pump work harder.
• Use schedules, or automation, so equipment runs only when needed.
• Switch to LED lighting.
• Use a pool cover where it fits your setup to reduce heat loss and evaporation.

If you want help choosing or replacing equipment in Boca Raton or nearby, text us a photo of your pad for a first look.