Turn your back on your pool for a few days, and you'll probably come back to a murky, cloudy, leaf-infested mess. That's just how pool ownership works. Fortunately, there are a bunch of nifty gadgets designed to keep above ground pools looking fresh and clean even against all the elements. And one of them comes in the form of a filter.
Working in cooperation with your pump, a pool filter helps to maintain water quality and cleanliness by filtering out dirt, debris, leaves, bugs, and a variety of other pool water contaminants. But before you go ahead and buy the first pool filter you find, it's important to take a look at the specifics to find out which ones are the best above ground pool filters for your situation.
What Are Above Ground Pool Filters?
A pool filter is a necessary piece of pool maintenance equipment if you want to cut down on water and chlorine costs. It works by taking water from above ground pools, through the pump, and then passing that water through a filtration system that pulls out debris, dirt, sand, particles, leaves, and if it's that efficient, even bacteria.
Pool filters help extend the viability of the water in your pool, and prevent the need for having to add extra chlorine and other harsh cleaning chemicals. Without a filter, your pool would inevitably gather dirt, leaves, and a variety of contaminants that might make it 'unswimmable' in just a short period of time.
Above Ground vs In-Ground Pool Filter
Some people think that all pool filters are the same, but in-ground and above ground filters are designed differently. For starters, in-ground and above ground pools use different skimmer and basket designs to filter larger debris. However the main distinction lies in their size and flow rate. An above ground pool filter is intended to work with an above ground filter pump which have a flow rate between 30-60 gallons per minute (gpm.)
On the other hand, in-ground pumps operate at a flow rate of 75-150 gmp which is more than double that of an above ground pump. That's because in-ground pumps work against gravity, requiring stronger suction to work. Coupled with an appropriately sized filter, these systems can complete a filtration cycle (that is, filter all the water in a pool) in a maximum of 10 hours.
The question now: can you use an above ground filter for an in-ground pool? Yes, you can, given that the pump sits below the water level and your in-ground pool doesn't exceed 15,000 gallons. But what about the other way around? Unfortunately not. Above-ground filters might be too small for an in-ground pool, and may not be able to maximize the power of the pump an in-ground pool requires.
Different Types of Above Ground Pool Filters
Presently, there are three main types of above ground pool filters, and each one works to provide distinct cleaning power. Choosing the best type depends on the kinds of contaminants you're trying to address.
Sand Filters
A sand filter is a simple, easy, reliable workhorse that's ideal for a pool that isn't too exposed to the elements. Inside the filter is a large chamber filled with sand which works to trap dirt, debris, and contaminants as they pass through. They can filter out particles up to 20 microns in size. For reference, a single strand of hair is about 50 microns in diameter.
That means a sand filters for pools should be able to trap particles that are too small for the naked eye to see. Over time however, the sand inside your pool filter system will lose its ability to filter your water as the particles of sand are rounded by the friction. This could take up to 7 years to occur, calling for a replacement of the sand inside.
Cartridge Filters
These are typically inexpensive and are often bundled with store bought above ground pools. They come with a cartridge that contains a filtration mesh that catches debris and dirt as it passes through the filter. After a few days of operation, a cartridge filter will lose it's efficiency. To clean it, you'll have to pop out the cartridge, rinse out the dirt, and place it back in for easy maintenance, you shouldn't have to worry about buying replacement cartridges too often.
If you plan to stick with a cartridge pool filter, it's ideal that you keep a second mesh filter on hand so you can replace the used filter and keep your pool clean while you wash out the debris from the other one. On average, a cartridge filter should be able to trap particles as small as 10 to 15 microns in size, depending on how fine the mesh is.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters
Powerful enough to remove particles 1 micron in size, the DE filter has been known to remove even germs and bacteria. On the inside, there are a bunch of fabric and mesh layers that are coated in a substance called 'diatomaceous earth' which attracts contaminants to pull them out of the water as it passes through. So restoring its original filtering power is as easy as replenishing the DE inside.
As the most powerful filter for above ground pools, the diatomaceous earth filter makes a great choice if you're constantly struggling with cloudy, murky water. Keep in mind though that in most states, DE requires proper disposal. Rinsing out your DE filter and allowing the substance to wash down the drain can cause major clogging in sewage systems.
Finding the Right Pool Filter Size
As a general rule, it's always best to find a pool filter system that's slightly bigger than what you need. An undersized pool filter will require constant replacement and maintenance, and might not be able to remove contamination as efficiently. Here's a quick and easy guide to help you get the best pool filter system size based on your pump's horsepower, flowrate, or pool gallonage:
10,000 to 15,000 Gallons (3/4 to 1.5 HP Pump @ 40-50 GPM Flowrate)
20,000 to 25,000 Gallons (1.5 HP Pump @ 65 GPM Flowrate)
30,000 to 35,000 Gallons (2.0 HP Pump @ 87 GPM Flowrate)
40,000 to 45,000 Gallons (2.5 HP Pump @ 105+ GPM Flowrate)
Choosing the Best Above Ground Pool Filter
Still not quite sure which pool filter would be best for you? The wide selection can make the process confusing. Nonetheless, here are some factors to consider if you want to make sure you're buying a pool filter that's really a fit for your pool.
Compatibility
Consider your pool's size and the kind of contamination you usually find. If your pool is located in a space that's not too exposed to the elements, and it doesn't really get that dirty, then a sand filter might be best for you. But if your water gets cloudy and murky after a few days, then a cartridge or diatomaceous earth pool filter might be a better choice.
Compatibility with your pump and skimmer or basket is also an important consideration. If you already have a pump at home and you're on the prowl for a pool filter to go with it, read the manual and find out the flow rate and horsepower to match it with the the best filter system from your search. Otherwise, some brands sell above ground pool filters and pumps bundled together to cut out the guesswork and make installation easier all around.
Ease of Installation
Some filters require nothing more than a few tube attachments here and there before they're up and running. Others aren't quite as easy to install, requiring up to an hour of tedious fiddling and figuring things out. But even then, you probably won't need a professional to install it for you. For the most part, filters that come with their own filter pump are easy to install since there's no need to worry about parts compatibility.
Fortunately, most manufacturers provide detailed manuals on how best to install their pool filters. Some even post step by step videos online. So while it might take you an hour to get it set up, you can be sure to get it done without the help of a pro. Nonetheless, if you don't consider yourself too 'handy', cartridge filters turn out to be the best choice for easy installation, taking no more than 15 minutes.
Maintenance
All filters require maintenance because of the nature of their functionality. They collect dirt, after all. Sand and diatomaceous earth filters are cleaned through a process called 'backwashing' which removes accumulated filth. How often you perform the process depends on how often you operate your filter system and how much pool water you have. As a general rule, backwashing should be done at least once a week.
In a DE filter, DE also washes out which you will have to replace and then dispose of properly since it can be illegal to just flush it down anywhere depending on your jurisdiction. For cartridge filters, it's really just as simple as cleaning out the mesh once a week and putting it back into the filter system, making it the best choice for low maintenance pool owners.
Longevity
An above ground pool filter will need some parts replaced after a while. For sand filters, manufacturers recommend a maximum of 7 years before you replace the sand inside since the particles can become rounded and smooth over time, reducing their ability to filter particles.
For DE filters, it really depends how often and how much you filter. If you notice the filter losing some efficiency, you can just add DE which you can purchase at your local pool supply store or online.
For cartridge filters, the cartridge itself may not last more than three to five years, maybe even less. Once the mesh is worn out, you're going to have to replace it with a fresh cartridge to maintain functionality and filtration power.
The 6 Best Above Ground Pool Filter Systems
1. Intex Kyrstal Clear Sand Filter
Equipped with a 24-hour timer, the Intex Krystal Clear sand filter system is often considered the best above ground pool filter system on the market. The rugged device can handle pools up to 19,600 gallons in size, providing versatile performance that can be set to filter, backwash, re-circulate, and drain. Designed with Intex pools in mind, this choice comes with a sand capacity at 120lbs, requiring zero refills and replacements within the first five years of use.
The Intex Krystal Clear Sand filter comes with its own sand filter pump that touts a flow rate of 3,000 gallons per hour, making it an ideal choice if you've got a pool that's at least 16-feet in diameter or more. Plus, because it's equipped with a number of safety features including safety shut-off in case of electrical surges, the choice works well for owners who want to set it and forget it.
2. Hayward EC50AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter
Made from heavy-duty, corrosion resistant material, this pool filter system was built for the long haul while providing reliable performance with its DE functionality. The above ground pool filter comes with a bump handle for self-cleaning performance, and a check-valve to prevent backflow when the system is shut off. Ideal for round and oval above ground pools, this filter can accommodate pool sizes up to 33 feet.
Complete with a 1-year warranty, this choice from Hayward comes with a patented Flex-Tube that's designed to provide efficient DE retention that keeps the material from washing out too much during the filtration cycle. This means you can run your water through the same DE for longer without having to worry about the system losing efficiency or requiring DE replenishment too soon.
3. Hayward S210T ProSeries Sand Filter
This high performance above ground pool sand filter uses the signature corrosion-proof tank that the Hayward brand is known for, delivering lasting performance you can enjoy for years. Perfect for winterizing your pool, this powerful above ground pool filter is designed to provide all-weather performance that you can rely on even during harsh conditions.
With a 360 degree rotating flange clamp for easy installation, the S210T filter system also comes equipped with an intuitive top diffuser that evenly spread collected water through the sand bed to maximize filtration power. If you're not particularly handy, you'll be happy to know that the S210T ProSeries Sand Filter is one of the easiest to install. Its easy-to-use lever-action handle lets you quickly dial any function with ease, allowing rapid switching from function to function so you can cut down on operation time.
4. Krystal Clear 28635EG Cartridge Filter Pump by Intex
Developed for the Intex Easy Set series of above ground pools, the Intex Krystal Clear Filter Pump boasts an auto timer that turns your filter on and off without intervention. And because it's Intex, the 28635EG Krystal Clear is one of the easiest to install, taking no more than 10 minutes to complete set-up. Easy, seamless, and simple, this cartridge filter pump is the best choice for smaller pools that require filtration a few times every week.
This filter system comes with its own Intex pump, so you won't have to worry about compatibility issues. The pump touts a modest 1,500 gallons per hour flow rate, making a combined 1,180 gallons per hour flow rate. With that, the pump and filter combo makes a great choice for round Intex above ground pools up to 18 feet or oval Intex pools up to 20 by 12 feet.
5. Hayward W3CC15093S XStream Above-Ground Pool Filter
Equipped with a large body for maximum filtration capacity, this choice from Hayward uses a cartridge system to pull dirt and contaminants out of your pool water. Maintenance is made impressively easy with a Easy-Lok system that lets you turn the lock system to quickly access the inside of the filter for maintenance and cartridge replacement.
Durable, reliable, and frill-free, this simplified choice works wonders for laid back pool owners who want something that doesn't call for too much attention or effort. Designed with an extra durable body that's both heat and moisture damage resistant, the W3CC15093S claims to deliver a longer, more efficient filtering life than most others in its segment.
6. Intex Krystal Clear 10-Inch Sand Filter
Built with smaller pools in mind, this Intex Krystal Clear 10-Inch Above Ground Pool Sand Filter comes bundled with a pump in true Intex fashion. The set touts a modest 0.25 hp motor, producing a pump flow rate of 1,200 gallons per hour. The system flow rate stands at just 1,050 gallons per hour which is perfect for pools about 2,800 to 8,400 gallons in size.
One thing that makes the 10-Inch Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter a particularly pleasant choice is the fact that it uses just 26 pounds of sand. Its small footprint allows pool owners to tuck the filter away, hidden from view of your above ground pool. That also means that the entire pool and pump system doesn't produce too much noise, creating a more tranquil pool area.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What size sand filter do I need for my above ground pool?
Sand filters can hold several hundred pounds of sand at a time, while smaller models tout a sand capacity under 30 pounds. Choosing the right size ultimately depends on the size of your pool and the strength of your pump. One helpful tip for choosing the right sand filter size however is to always step up a little from your pool's actual requirement. This won't only improve efficiency, but should also help extend the filtration life of your set up.
2. What is the best filter for an Intex pool?
Naturally, the best filter for an Intex pool would be an Intex above ground pool filter. The brand offers both sand and cartridge filters designed to use their range of pool accessories for easier installation. A lot of their sand filters also come bundled with a sand filter pump for effortless set-up and use. It's worth noting though that most Intex pools already come with a filter out of the box. But if you find that you need something a little more powerful, you can upgrade to a stronger Intex filter without having to worry about tube compatibility and fit.
3. Are sand or cartridge pool filters better?
There are upsides to both types of filters. For one thing, sand filters can stick around for several years without the need for frequent sand replacement. They're also a reliable workhorse, typically more durable than your average cartridge filter. But of course, the downside is that they require tedious backwashing which might be time consuming for most pool owners.
The cartridge filter on the other hand can filter particles much smaller than a sand filter, making it more capable of cleaning out more contaminants. In terms of longevity, a cartridge can last up to 5 years, depending on how often the filter is operated. Then of course there's the fact that a cartridge filter doesn't need to be backwashed which can be a major maintenance plus.
4. How to install a sand filter for an above ground pool
The process of installing a sand filter can change depending on the model. For the most part, sand filter installation for above ground pools will require very few tools if any at all, making them very easy to install. They'll also follow a clear, step by step process indicated in the manual. Sand filters are installed after the sand filter pump and before the chlorinator. Make sure to read your user manual to find out the specifics of the installation process.
5. How to use a sand filter for an above ground pool
Using a sand filter for above ground pools can be pretty straightforward and easy, with almost all models coming with a valve handle that you turn to run the filter or to perform a backwash. Keep in mind that the valve can't be turned if the filter is running. So if you need to backwash your filter, or if you need to switch to filter mode after cleaning out debris, you must first turn the filter off. For even easier operation, opt for a design that comes bundled with a sand filter pump that streamlines use all together.
Crystal Clear Water, All Year Round
No one wants to take a dip in filthy, murky water. And that's what pool filters are for. Coming in a range of options, pool filters help keep your water clean, prevent steep maintenance costs, and above all, protect the health and wellness of your loved ones and guests. These days, there are quite a lot of pool filters on the market so it's important to make informed choices if you want to get your hands on the best above ground pool filters.
From sand, to cartridge, to DE - which one do you think would work the best for your pool? Consider all the angles, know your pool specifics, and look into maintenance details to figure out which pool filter to get for your space.
