I am new to this forum and I'm looking for advice on possibly switching from a DE filter--now on its last legs--to a cartridge system. I have an 18 X 36 in-ground pool in Western Mass (3 months use per year). My DE filter is about 15 years old and needs to be retired. I am very attracted to the Sta-Right cartridge filter that is available--mainly because I would like to get DE out of my life. The cartridge filter appeals to me because of its simplicity and ease of maintenance--clean it yourself at the end of the season, etc. No more DE = one less pool chore to do. However, all sources seem to be telling me that DE filters best, better than a cartridge. My question is this: does the difference in filtering quality really make a visible difference? My pool guys say it does not, that you can't see the difference. If the new cartridge filter is properly sized, will it get my water clean? Everyone agrees that DE filters smaller particles, so I understand that; but will I see the difference in the water? I'd particularly appreciate hearing from anyone with first-hand experience of this switch from DE to cartridge--or vice-versa! Thanks for any info.

our pool pump used to be very quiet, not it sound like a jet engine, what could be causing so much noise? is there a way to reset it or flush it to get what is making that noise out? is it electrical? is the pump dying ? thanks for any help.