logo
    • News
    • Classifieds
    • Free Subscription
    • Book Store
    • Submit
      • Submit a Classified Ad
      • Submit an Educational Announcement
      • Submit a letter to The Editor
    • Past Issues
    • Regional Trade Shows
    • Testimonials
    • Contact
    • News
    • Classifieds
    • Free Subscription
    • Book Store
    • Submit
      • Submit a Classified Ad
      • Submit an Educational Announcement
      • Submit a letter to The Editor
    • Past Issues
    • Regional Trade Shows
    • Testimonials
    • Contact
News
July 13, 2023
Sand replacement— Activated Filter Media

Effective filtration is crucial in maintaining clean and safe swimming pool water. While traditional methods like sand filtration have been widely used, advancements in filtration technology have introduced innovative alternatives that significantly enhance

performance. AFM Activated Filter Media is one such breakthrough, offering unparalleled filtration capabilities and revolutionizing the swimming pool maintenance landscape.

AFM Activated Filter Media is a direct replacement for sand filters that promises to double their performance without requiring additional investment.

Unlike sand, AFM is resistant to biofouling, biocoagulation, and transient wormhole channeling, ensuring the filtration system operates at optimal efficiency. One of the remarkable

qualities of AFM is its longevity— unlike traditional media, it never needs to be recharged or replaced.

AFM is a highly engineered product manufactured from a specific glass type, processed to achieve an optimum particle size and shape. It undergoes a rigorous three-step activation process, increasing its surface area by up to 300 times, resulting in superior mechanical and electrostatic filtration performance.

The activated surface of AFM is selfsterilizing, preventing bacteria mudballing, coagulation, and channeling of unfiltered water through the filter bed.

The activation process of AFM

significantly increases its surface area, enabling effective adsorption and catalysis reactions. Similar to activated carbon, the surface nano-structure

of AFM adsorbs pollutants from the water. However, unlike carbon,

AFM can be recharged simply by backwashing with water. This feature ensures continuous high-performance filtration.

AFM reduces the biological risk associated with bacteria and parasites, acting as an effective barrier against pathogens such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia. By preventing bacteria

incubation and discharge, AFM

reduces the bacterial load in the

filtered water. Additionally, AFM ' s superior filtration performance leads to lower concentrations of THMs (Trihalomethanes), providing a safer swimming environment. Moreover,

AFM excels at removing metals from water, ensuring exceptional water quality.

AFM is manufactured in a stateof- the-art factory designed by Dr.

Howard Dryden, the CEO and inventor

of AFM . The filter media contains metal oxide catalysts that dissociate oxygen and water, creating a zone of high oxidation potential that prevents bacteria growth. Furthermore, the vast

activated surface area of AFM carries a strong negative charge, facilitating the adsorption of sub-micron particles and dissolved organic molecules.

The manufacturer states that the

advantages of using AFM in swimming pool filtration systems are numerous:

• More than doubles the performance of existing filtration systems without the need for additional investment.

• Ensures biodynamic stability and prevents the passage of untreated water through the filter.

• Reduces chlorine oxidation demand by up to 50%.

• Lowers backwash water demand by an average of 50%.

• Expected to last for the life of the filtration system, providing a long-term solution.

• Offers a quick return on investment, saving both time and resources.

Replacing sand with AFM is a straightforward process, albeit with some considerations.

Before installation, check the required amount of sand for the filter.

Then, calculate the quantity of AFM

needed, which is reduced by 15% due to its lower bulk density.

For filters smaller than 31 inches in diameter, use a combination of 50%

AFM Grade 1 and 50% AFM Grade 2. For larger filters, employ a mixture of 50% Grade 1, 25% Grade 2, and 25% Grade 3.

Before filling the filter, inspect the filter laterals for any damage, and half-fill the filter with water to protect them. Fill the filter with the appropriate

grades of AFM and allow it to soak or run pool equipment on filtration for 24 hours. Backwash after 24 hours and continue regular backwashing at least once a week.

AFM Activated Filter Media is revolutionizing the field of swimming pool filtration with its exceptional performance, longevity, and ease of use. With its engineered design, selfsterilizing properties, and unmatched

adsorption capabilities, AFM sets a new standard for water quality and

safety. By incorporating AFM into filtration systems, pool owners can enjoy crystal-clear water, reduced chemical demand, and long-lasting efficiency.

LATEST NEWS
Pool Hot Tub Alliance takes to the Hill
News
Pool Hot Tub Alliance takes to the Hill
PHTA members, staff met with congressional leaders to discuss swimming pool related issues
May 31, 2025
By Marcelle Dibrell The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) hosted its third annual PHTA Day on the Hill this April as association members went to Washingt...
this is a test
News
Pool techs answer service pricing survey
May 31, 2025
With the summer solstice a couple weeks away and Memorial Day just past, it’s hard to argue that summertime hasn’t arrived, and that means that it’s t...
this is a test
LA pools overwhelmed by mosquitos
News
LA pools overwhelmed by mosquitos
May 31, 2025
Beleaguered residents of the recent catastrophic Los Angeles fires are facing a new public health crisis: Mosquitoes. It was a predictable outcome tha...
this is a test
Hotel pool heater sends 2 to hospital
News
Hotel pool heater sends 2 to hospital
May 31, 2025
A carbon monoxide incident in a Kansas hotel caused by a swimming pool heater sent two guests to the hospital. The DoubleTree by Hilton in Riley Count...
this is a test
BioLab Conyers, Georgia plant closes
News
BioLab Conyers, Georgia plant closes
May 31, 2025
The chlorine manufacturing plant that was responsible for last year’s massive chemical fire in Georgia will not be reopening. BioLab, owner of the Con...
this is a test
MONEY ON THE TABLE
News
DON’T LEAVE
MONEY ON THE TABLE
SIGN UP TODAY & GET THE RIGHT TOOLS
May 31, 2025
DON’T LEAVE SIGN UP TODAY & GET THE RIGHT TOOLS The Fluidra ServicePro rewards program is designed specifically for pool service companies and gives y...
this is a test
Read Our Newsletter
ePaper
coogle_play
app_store
Free Subscription
View Current Print Ads
Educational Announcements
Aquatic Training Institute

Educational Leverage

Foundation For Pool Industry Education

Locey Pool

Pool Chemistry Training Institute

Pool & Hot Tub Alliance

Portofino University

Underwater Pool Masters
Trade Show Dates
  • The International Pool Spa Patio Expo
    Nov. 12-14, Dallas, Texas
  • The Pool and Spa Show
    Jan. 28-30, Atlantic City, New Jersey
  • 35th Annual National Plasterers Conference
    Feb. 26-28, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
  • The Southwest Pool and Spa Show
    Feb. 4-8, Houston, Texas
  • The Western Pool and Spa Show
    Feb. 6-8, Long Beach, California
Books to Order
About Us Terms of Use Privacy Policy
We use cookies to ensure that our website gives you the best experience possible. By continuing to use this website, you agree to this use of cookies.OK