I bought a Vortex about 8-10 years ago, and found it to be the biggest PITA to use. Even bought the inline valve that was supposed to keep you from blowing DE into the tank at startup....valve was impossible to turn, and leaked, and I still ended up blowing DE into the tank. With the exception of the motor, everything else was so cheaply made...easy kink hoses, rubber band clamps, cheap hose-kinking tool, etc.. The pleated filter bags constantly tore at the neck, even after following manufacturer tips for putting silicone around the neck to prevent tearing.
One time, after another filter bag tore, I just gave up and bought a Magnum 350. Whenever I polish now, I just use the micron filter in the Magnum. A little less polished than with the Vortex, but MUCH easier to use...
One time, after another filter bag tore, I just gave up and bought a Magnum 350. Whenever I polish now, I just use the micron filter in the Magnum. A little less polished than with the Vortex, but MUCH easier to use...