As much as we enjoy the feeling of floating on the cool water of our swimming pools on mid-summer days with a beer at hand, none of us really enjoy the process of cleaning the pool.
One of the easiest ways to maintain your swimming pool’s beauty is to add a good pool filter to it.
None of us want to swim in other people’s filth and bacteria. Not cleaning your pool can make it cloudy, algae-infested, and green.
In this article, we have gathered the top 10 best above ground pool filters for you. No matter what type of pool you have, this article will have something to fit your needs.
Quick Summary
A pool filter is one of the most important things that keeps your pool looking fresh and sparkling. So investing in a good filter is crucial.
At a quick glance, these are the very best options when looking for the above-ground pool filter.
- Overall Best: Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
- Best Deep Cleaner: Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter
- Best Budget Pick: XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Swimming Pool Pump
An Overview of the Best Above Ground Pool Filters
- The Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump has everything you will need. It fits basically all types of above-ground pools including the larger, more luxurious ones. The inbuilt 24-hour timer makes pool maintenance a dream!
- Looking for something that can deep clean your pool? The Hayward C40AC Perflex Pool filter is the most thorough cleaner out there! It uses diatomaceous earth to remove algae and microbes, keeping any above-ground pool clean and fresh.
- The XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Swimming Pool Pump is undoubtedly the best budget-friendly option for anyone! It does everything a high-brand filter would do but at a lower cost and uses a solar panel to produce efficient green energy.
Top 10 Best Above Ground Pool Filters Reviews
| RANK | NAME | RATING | SHOPS |
| #1 | Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools [Overall Best] Krystal Clear Sand Filter is the top pick simply because it’s one of the most advanced and efficient models from Intex. Unlike standard cartridge filters, it comes in a sand filter technology that makes cleaning efficient and eco-friendly. Pool Size: 5,500 gal to 19,600 gallons Filter Type: Sand Tank Size: 16 inches Cord Length: 25 feet | 9.9 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #2 | Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter [Best Deep Cleaner] Hayward C40 comes with some powerful cleaning components that will give you crystal clear, sparkling water in no time! Whether you’re dealing with algae, grit, or this general feeling of dirty water, this filter will fix it all. The patented Flex-Tube System is a great technology that reuses the D.E powder and dirt mixture for an efficient yet clean surface. Pool Size: 19,000 gallons Filter Type: Diatomaceous Earth Tank Size: 16 inches Cord Length: NA | 9.8 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #3 | XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Basket Filter [Best Budget Pick] This is a high-performing motor with built-in airflow ventilators for a quieter and smoother runtime. The Xtremepower swimming pool pump is built with corrosion-proof polymeric material for durability and longevity. You get to enjoy a low-cost machine with high-end technology to give you the best cleaning experience. This is a great value for money option. Pool Type: Above Ground Voltage: 115 V Cord Length: 6 feet Max Head: 36 feet | 9.7 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #4 | Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump [For Smaller Pools] Do you want a powerful filter pump but think the Intex Sand Filter pump is a bit too pricey? The Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump is significantly cheaper yet has almost the same power and functionality as the Sand Filter model. It comes with a double insulated pump that provides high-speed filtration to remove any unwanted gunk from your pool. It also cleans both small and large bits of debris from your pool equally well. Pool Size: 4,000 to 15,200 gallons Tank Size: 18 inches Cord Length: 24 feet Turnover Rate : 1,900 GPH | 9.6 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #5 | Best Choice Products Pro 2400GPH 13″ Sand Filter Swimming Pool Pump [Dependable and Functional] Best Choice has always been a reliable and go-to brand for most of us. They provide high-quality products that last a long time. This above ground pool filter can clean up to 10,000 gallons with 2,400 gallons per hour. It comes with a system tray, 4-way valve, connection hose, pressure gauge, and a 3-prong plug with an electric cable. Pool Size: up to 10,000 gallons Max Suction: 32 feet Filter Type: Sand Tank Size: 13 inches | 9.5 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #6 | Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump [Easy Use] Surprised by this entry? Another Intex filter pump is on the list and rightfully so! When it comes to filtering pumps, Intex knows what they are doing. Did we mention it is a double insulated pump with an auto timer? The timer can reach up to 12 hours for a continuous cleaning cycle without any interval. Pool Size: 700p to 9,400 gallons Filter Type: Cartridge Tank Size: 16 inches Pump Flow Rate: 1,500 GPH | 9.4 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #7 | Hayward W3CC15093S XStream Above-Ground Pool Filter Pump [Durable and Long Lasting] Hayward’s XStream Cartridge Filter and Pump System offer a longer and efficient filtering life than the standard options on the market. As the filter has a larger body, it ensures equal dirt distribution throughout the filtering element. This ensures a non-clogging experience and saves you the hassle of cleaning out blockages. Pool Size: 150 sq feet Horsepower: 1.5 HP Filter Type: Cartridge Tank Size: 21 inches | 9.3 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #8 | Hayward EC50AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter [Budget-Friendly Pick] Hayward is a leading pool filter brand that has been providing great quality flyers for over 80 years! This one is a very simple modular filter option. If you are someone who doesn’t like to invest in complex and unknown technology, this one is perfect for you. This is an old-fashioned and reliable design that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. Pool Size: 28 feet to 39 feet D.E. Required: 5 pounds Filtration Area: 20 feet Dimen. Width: 13.5 inches | 9.2 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #9 | Rx Clear Radiant 24 Inch Sand Filter System [Compact Model] Most of today’s pools require a high-power thorough filtration to get rid of dirt, debris, and most importantly harmful bacteria. This Rx Clear Radiant Sand filter uses 6 boxes of Rx Clear Luster filter media, 150 lbs of Zeo-Clear filter media, or 300 lbs of traditional grade 20 silica sand. Their Clear Luster Filter Media is a great alternative to sand as they don’t clog the filter and require minimal backwashing. It’s also lighter than sand. Pool Size: up to 33,000 gallons Filter Type: Sand Sand Required: 300 lbs Tank Size: 24 inches | 9.1 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #10 | Intex 26679EG Krystal Clear 2150 GPH Pump & Saltwater Sand Filter [For Larger Pools] For those larger above-ground pools, the Intex Krystal Clear line has another great model. This one is their saltwater sand filter pump. The saltwater system uses pure, natural salt to keep the ecosystem of the pool balanced. Pool Size: 4,800 to 15,000 gallons Sand Required: 120 pounds Tank Size: 16 inches Turnover Rate : 2,650 GPH | 9.0 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
01. Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools [Overall Best]
Krystal Clear Sand Filter is the top pick simply because it’s one of the most advanced and efficient models from Intex!
Unlike standard cartridge filters, it comes in a sand filter technology that makes cleaning efficient and eco-friendly.
Sand filters work by letting the water cycle through a canister of sand. The sand filters out all the larger particles including dirt and debris. This is the most natural and practical way to keep your pool clean and sanitized.
This durable filter comes in six functions: filter, backwash, rinse, re-circulate, drain, and close system. It literally does everything you would want your filter pump to do.
Intex Krystal Sand Filter comes with a pressure gauge that lets you monitor the water pressure for backwashing.
Hydro Aeration is a patented technology of Intex that has the power to deep clean any pool. Let’s not forget the digital timer with 1 to 12 hours of pre-set cycles that allow you to make your own automatic cleaning routine.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: 5,500 gal to 19,600 gallons
- Filter Type: Sand
- Tank Size: 16 inches
- Cord Length: 25 feet
- Pump Motor: 0.75 hp
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- Easy to install and use without expert knowledge.
- A six-function control valve lets you customize the settings.
- The pre-set 24-hour timer makes pool maintenance almost effortless.
- Automatic on/off settings adds to the convenience.
- Comes with a two-year warranty.
Cons
- Some additional accessories need to be bought separately.
02. Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter [Best Deep Cleaner]
Hayward C40 comes with some powerful cleaning components that will give you crystal clear, sparkling water in no time! Whether you’re dealing with algae, grit, or this general feeling of dirty water, this filter will fix it all.
The patented Flex-Tube System is a great technology that reuses the D.E powder and dirt mixture for an efficient yet clean surface. Who said pool cleaning can’t be green conscious?
The exclusive bump handle activates the Flex-Tubes, which then causes them to instantly purge themselves of dirt and powder. It’s a seamless process.
If you are using it for the first time, you are up for a treat! This cleans surfaces so well that you’d want to drink the water. It is an ideal choice for anyone who struggles to keep their pool clean.
The best thing about DE filters is that they provide superior water clarity without any backwashing.
It is a really good investment as each cleaning is more economically friendly than standard pool cleaners.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: 19,000 gallons
- Filter Type: Diatomaceous Earth
- Tank Size: 16 inches
- Cord Length: NA
- Pump Motor: NA
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Intense cleaning gives you a crystal clear pool overnight.
- Easy to disassemble and clean without calling a professional
- Eco-friendly and requires little to no chemicals to keep the pool fresh.
- Durable and long-lasting and offers great value in terms of money.
Cons
- Cleaning the filter can be a bit messy.
03. XtremepowerUS Swimming Pool Pump Spa Strainer Basket Filter [Best Budget Pick]
This is a high-performing motor with built-in airflow ventilators for a quieter and smoother runtime.
The Xtremepower swimming pool pump is built with corrosion-proof polymeric material for durability and longevity.
You get to enjoy a low-cost machine with high-end technology to give you the best cleaning experience. This is a great value for money option!
One cool thing about this pump is, it is designed to be compatible for use with solar heating and in-floor cleaning systems. This means it’s not only energy-efficient but also eco-friendly and saves energy.
The pump parts are fibreglass-reinforced for superior strength and long-lasting shelf life.
The pump comes with a large strainer basket and an easy to open, transparent pump lid to make the cleaning process effortless and smooth.
It has a built-in automatic thermal overload protector to ensure your safety while providing great filtration.
Specifications:
- Pool Type: Above Ground
- Voltage: 115 V
- Cord Length: 6 feet
- Max Head: 36 feet
- Max Flow: 4,900 GPH
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
- Really affordable, great value for money, especially since it lasts for so long.
- Powerful filtration removes all the dirt and debris including algae, silt, and sand.
- The quiet cleaning process won’t cause any disruptions.
Cons
- Quite difficult to install, so you might need professionals for installation.
04. Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump [For Smaller Pools]
Do you want a powerful filter pump but think the Intex Sand Filter pump is a bit too pricey?
The Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump is significantly cheaper yet has almost the same power and functionality as the Sand Filter model.
Cartridge filters are another popular option that only requires you to replace the filters twice a month. They are very easy to use especially for a smaller home pool.
It comes with a double insulated pump that provides high-speed filtration to remove any unwanted gunk from your pool. It also cleans both small and large bits of debris from your pool equally well.
The air release valve is a great addition to remove trapped air in the filter chamber. These kinds of attention to detail are what make Intex a household brand.
It works on up to 15,200 gallons size of the pool which is quite a generous size. Whether you’re buying for a home pool or a community one, this filter will exceed all your expectations. But customers with smaller pools are guaranteed to love how well it works.
The versatility of this product is really convenient. It works with a 15-feet easy set, the 15-feet metal frame of 18-feet by 10-feet oval frame pools.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: 4,000 to 15,200 gallons
- Filter Type: Cartridge
- Tank Size: 18 inches
- Cord Length: 24 feet
- Turnover Rate : 1,900 GPH
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Easy to install; you can even do so yourself!
- A double insulated pump makes filtration more dependable.
- Auto timer with present 2 to 12-hour cycles adds to the self-cleaning function.
- Suits different shaped pools and works equally well across different sizes.
Cons
- It may not be compatible with non-Intex above ground pools.
- Requires adapters to fit it into some smaller pools.
05. Best Choice Products Pro Sand Filter Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump [Dependable and Functional]
Best Choice has always been a reliable and go-to brand for most of us. They provide high-quality products that last a long time.
This filter pump is no exception as it has been ETL listed and CSA certified proving the quality and functionality. As a result, you don’t have to worry about it breaking down suddenly.
This above ground pool filter can clean up to 10,000 gallons with 2,400 gallons per hour. It comes with a system tray, 4-way valve, connection hose, pressure gauge, and a 3-prong plug with an electric cable.
The pump is thermal protected which means it prevents fire damage or excess heating.
The self-priming pump issues a top-mounted 6-position multiport valve that ensures the highest quality of filtration that will give you sparkling clean water in no time. This means that you can have your pool ready to use in a very short time.
With all these benefits, you will be able to have pool parties all summer long!
Specifications:
- Pool Size: up to 10,000 gallons
- Max Suction: 32 feet
- Filter Type: Sand
- Sand Capacity: 42 lbs
- Tank Size: 13 inches
- Turnover Rate : 2,400 GPH
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Easy assembly and low maintenance, so it is great for smaller pools.
- Sizeable capacity, ideal for many different pool types.
- Filters water faster than the average filter pump.
- Thermal protected, so there is no risk of overheating.
Cons
- You need to add extra chemicals to remove the cloudiness of the pool water.
06. Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump [Easy Use]
Surprised by this entry? Another Intex filter pump is on the list and rightfully so! When it comes to filtering pumps, Intex knows what they are doing.
Intex has so many different models all designed for different demographics. This particular filter pump is specifically made for above ground pools.
The installation process of this pump is so easy. All you have to do is attach the hoses via a 1.5” hose fitting and plugin.
Did we mention it is a double insulated pump with an auto timer? The timer can reach up to 12 hours for a continuous cleaning cycle without any interval.
The Intex 28635EG is basically a smaller, more affordable version of the 33EG one. It comes with all the similar features but with some smaller modifications. It has 1500 GPH or 3785 mph.
The filter pump comes with a sediment flush valve and replaceable filter cartridges that make the whole cleaning and maintenance process a breeze.
The Hydro Aeration Technology inlet fitting improves the quality of water by increasing negative ions at the water surface. As a result, the pool water will feel clean and light once filtered.
It also induces the oxidation of iron and manganese. This is why you get smooth, sparkling pool water that simply feels amazing.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: 7000 to 9,400 gallons
- Filter Type: Cartridge
- Tank Size: 16 inches
- Pump Flow Rate: 1,500 GPH
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- Easy to install compared to similar models.
- The auto-timer function makes pool maintenance a breeze
- Strong suction, removes all dirt and debris.
- Hydro Aeration technology increases negative ions in the water.
- Works quickly and cleans the water in no time at all.
Cons
- Does not come with adapters, you will have to purchase them separately.
07. Hayward W3CC15093S XStream Above-Ground Pool Filter Pump [Durable and Longlasting]
Hayward’s XStream Cartridge Filter and Pump System offer a longer and efficient filtering life than the standard options on the market.
As the filter has a larger body, it ensures equal dirt distribution throughout the filtering element. This ensures a non-clogging experience and saves you the hassle of cleaning out blockages.
The filter tank is durable as it’s made out of steel. So it won’t split or break. Because of this, it is a long-lasting unit that performs dependably.
It has an easy-lock ring design that allows quick access to all internal components in case you need to.
This above-ground pool filter was engineered for easy and comfortable use with flexible rigid plumbing.
Hayward XStream Above-Ground pool was designed to serve you for years and an incredible trouble-free filtration system.
You get what you pay for with this product. It is a reliable 1.5 horsepower machine that will keep your pool clean and debris-free.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: 150 sq feet
- Horsepower: 1.5 HP
- Filter Type: Cartridge
- Tank Size: 21 inches
- Turnover Rate: 120 GPH
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- The filtration process removes out even the fine particles of algae and silt.
- Ideal for medium to large above pools.
- Easy to assemble and set up.
- Energy-efficient and high-powered.
- Durable and sturdy construction.
Cons
- The hoses require monitoring and regular checkups.
08. Hayward EC50AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter [Budget-Friendly Pick]
Hayward is a leading pool filter brand that has been providing great quality flyers for over 80 years! This one is a very simple modular filter option.
If you are someone who doesn’t like to invest in complex and unknown technology, this one is perfect for you.
This is an old-fashioned and reliable design that does exactly what it’s supposed to do. It’s recommended for pools 28′ to 33′ around and 18’x36′ to 18’x39′ oval-shaped.
Hayward uses a Perflex extended-cycle DC filter that removes even as small as two microns size of dirt.
Their unique bump mechanism allows DE flex tubes to instantly and collectively clean themselves of dirt and filter media. With this modular design, you will experience a clean pool without any backwashing.
All in all, this is a pretty low-maintenance filter, so it is a good choice for those who don’t want to fuss around with their pool equipment.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: 28 feet to 39 feet
- D.E. Required: 5 pounds
- Filtration Area: 20 feet
- Dimen. Width: 13.5 inches
- Filter Type: Diatomaceous Earth
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Easy to install and manage without outside help
- Ideal for algae, sand, silt, or overly dirty pools.
- Durable construction ensures it lasts for ages.
- Ideal for an all-year-round cleanup for infrequently used pools.
Cons
- Can get messy while cleaning and needs some getting used to.
09. Rx Clear Radiant 24 Inch Sand Filter System [Compact Model]
Most of today’s pools require a high-power thorough filtration to get rid of dirt, debris, and most importantly harmful bacteria.
This Rx Clear Radiant Sand filter uses 6 boxes of Rx Clear Luster filter media, 150 lbs of Zeo-Clear filter media, or 300 lbs of traditional grade 20 silica sand.
Their Clear Luster Filter Media is a great alternative to sand as they don’t clog the filter and requires minimal backwashing. It’s also lighter than sand.
The core of this machine is the one-piece blow-molded tank that comes with a 3-year warranty. This means you’re set for a long time in case of any breakdowns.
It doesn’t provide the filter media and hoses with the system which is a downside. You have to purchase them separately.
One of the best things about Rx CLear Radiant Sand Filter is its versatility. You can use it for many different sizes of pools. Whether it’s a 1’ round pool or an 18’ x 36’ rectangular one, this filter fits them all.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: up to 33,000 gallons
- Filter Type: Sand
- Sand Required: 300 lbs
- Tank Size: 24 inches
- Warranty: 3-year
Pros
- Filters down 5-3 microns, removing microscopic dirt.
- Comparable performance to Hayware but at a lower price.
- Solid tank, durable and sturdy, and will last for ages.
- Sand filtration sanitizes the whole pool without extra chemicals.
Cons
- The clamp that comes with the valve is not very durable. You can easily replace it though.
10. Intex 26679EG Krystal Clear 2150 GPH Pump & Saltwater Sand Filter [For Larger Pools]
For those larger above-ground pools, the Intex Krystal Clear line has another great model. This one is their saltwater sand filter pump.
The saltwater system uses pure, natural salt to keep the ecosystem of the pool balanced. Salt has antibacterial and antifungal properties that keep your water fresh and sparkling.
As the filter has Hydro Aeration Technology of Intex, it keeps the water circulated and increases negative ions in the water.
As the saline water passes through the saltwater system, it converts dissolved salts into sodium hypochlorite. This means your pool stays sanitized without having to use any extra sanitizing solutions.
As salt does not evaporate, you do not have to add more salt every day. The same salt keeps converting and reverting and makes the water sparkling and fresh. Nifty, right?
If the system requires an adjustment, it simply alerts you. This machine comes with a 2-year warranty from the manufacturers.
Specifications:
- Pool Size: 4,800 to 15,000 gallons
- Filter Type: Sand
- Sand Required: 120 pounds
- Tank Size: 16 inches
- Turnover Rate : 2,650 GPH
- Warranty: 2 Years
You may also like: Best Pool Vacuum Heads: Reviews and Buying Guide [2021]
Pros
- The efficient timer function makes the unit easy to maintain.
- An effective and reliable saltwater system offers powerful filtration.
- No need for any chemicals in the pool, so it keeps the water safe for kids.
- Long-lasting and well worth the money.
Cons
- This filter is not suitable for freshwater pools.
Best Above Ground Pool Filters Buying Guide
Now that you have seen our top picks in our best above groundwater filter review, you need to know how to make a decision.
The most important thing while buying a pool filter is knowing your pool type and which filter would suit it best.
What Does A Pool Filter Do?
Most of us know we need to have a pool filter in our pools. But genuinely, it’s one of those things we do because we have seen our father do it.
The majority of us don’t know what a pool filter really does.
We think pool filters only remove dirt and debris from the water but that’s just 50% of what they do.
A pool filter removes all the gunks, oils, dirt, algae from water while adding a lot of flow and circulation to the pool.
But why do we need circulation anyway? Algae forms in water that’s very stagnant, meaning the water does not move and stay still all the time. This is why using a pool filter can transform your pool as it adds constant flow to the water.
Even though there are different filter types, every pool filters provide oxygen and air to the water, keeping it fresh and flowy.
Different Filter Types:
Before you decide on anything, you need to figure out what type of filter you want for your swimming pool.
There are three main types of filters: cartridge, sand, and DE. Each has its unique properties and functions.
Cartridge:
Cartridge filters are the most common pol filters used all over the world.
They are made out of standard polyester cloth or corrugated paper. It filters out particles down to 5 microns.
Most public swimming pools use cartridge filters due to their fine filtration process. They remove all the dirt and debris, even the fine dust particles.
As they are made out of simple cloth, they are low cost and very affordable. The only issue is, you have to change them every two weeks.
Check out Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump for a reliable pick.
Sand:
Sand filters are famous for their eco-friendly nature and easy system. Sand filters use very fine sand particles to catch and remove dirt and debris.
A standard sand filter is larger than any average pool filters as they need a large amount of sand to clean 10,000 gallons. Water passes through the sand and the dirt gets stuck in there.
One downside of having a sand filter is that they often miss fine particles and dirt.
However, there are some amazing sand filters that can last you more than twenty years. They are durable, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
For example, our top pick, Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE):
Probably the most popular type of pool filter right now is diatomaceous earth aka DE. They are famous for catching even the smallest sized particles. DE is basically fossilized sea organisms/planktons. This is a really effective way to handle serious dirt or algae issues.
Water gets pushed into the filter and it passes through a number of grids. Each of those grids is coated with a fine layer of DE.
Hayward EC50AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter is one of the top choices in this category.
Pool GPM:
Determining your pool’s GPM is a key component in deciding on a pool filter. That’s because your pool type will determine what kind of filter it requires to stay clean longer.
So if you run your filter pump for 8 hours a day, you have a 20,000-gallon pool. Divide this number by 8 (the number of hours) and then divide that number by 60 (number of minutes in an hour).
What you will end up with is the GPM of your pool. In our case, it’s 42 GPM. So look for pumps that are capable of pumping that amount.
Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter has the highest GPM rate and deep cleaning abilities.
Pool Size:
Find out your pool size. This is pretty basic knowledge for most of us. But if you bought your house second-hand, we often forget the dimensions of the pool.
Look for filters that are designed to handle exactly your pool’s size. If you buy something that was meant for a smaller pool, it will take twice as long, and still, your pool won’t clean properly.
If you are confused, it’s safer to go for a filter pump that was meant for a bigger pool than the other way around. A trusty choice would be, Best Choice Products Pro 2400GPH Sand Filter.
Durability:
If you want a filter that will last you a long time, there is no better option than sand filters. Public and residential swimming pools always use sand filters because they are famous for their longevity.
If your swimming pool is a busy one, it’s better to invest in something long-lasting. Sand filters are a great investment. Proper maintenance can keep them in tip-top shape for decades.
Rx Clear Radiant 24 Inch Sand Filter System comes with a three-year warranty for a durable option.
Cleaning Power:
No doubt, the best filter for keeping your water sparkling clean is DE filters. They can remove even the finest materials along with bacteria and algae.
If you have a swimming pool that is in a dire need of a cleanup, or if your pool tends to get dirty quite frequently, DE filters are your only solution.
Low Maintenance:
If you do not want to spend too much time maintaining your filters, then cartridge filters are the best low-maintenance option.
They only require a replacement once every two weeks. The replacement filters are really cheap and easy to set.
There are some washable filter options even those that are really easy to clean and maintain. The Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump is always a reliable option.
| Filter | Cleaning Power | Longevity | Noise | Size |
| Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools | 9.9 | 9.9 | 9.9 | 9.9 |
| Hayward W3EC40AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter | 9.9 | 9.9 | 9.9 | 9.9 |
| XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Basket Filter | 9.8 | 9.9 | 9.9 | 9.8 |
| Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump | 9.8 | 9.8 | 9.8 | 9.7 |
| Best Choice Products Pro 2400GPH 13″ Sand Filter Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump | 9.7 | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.7 |
| Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump | 9.7 | 9.8 | 9.7 | 9.8 |
| Hayward W3CC15093S XStream Above-Ground Pool Filter Pump | 9.8 | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.7 |
| Hayward EC50AC Perflex D.E. Pool Filter | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.5 | 9.8 |
| Rx Clear Radiant 24 Inch Sand Filter System | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.7 | 9.6 |
| Intex 26679EG Krystal Clear 2150 GPH Pump & Saltwater Sand Filter | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.7 | 9.6 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to questions people often have about above ground pool filters.
01. How often do you clean pool filters?
That depends on the type of pool filters you are using. Each filter has a unique cleaning routine.
Most DE filters should only be back-washed after two to three months. If the filter builds up 5-10 PSI of pressure, then it needs to be cleaned.
Cartridge filtered required to be replaced once every few weeks. Sand filters on the other hand need to be cleaned only once every two years.
Of course, all of these rules are flexible and depend on the amount of dirt your pool collects. The dirtier the pool is, the more your filters need to be cleaned/replaced.
02. Do pool filters stay on all the time?
If you have recently bought a brand new pool filter, it is recommended to run that for at least 8-10 hours. You should always let your filter rest for 24 hours before using it again.
For standard weekly cleaning, run the pump for 8 hours every few days. This is unless your pool is in constant use. Then it’s ideal to run your filter for 8 hours every other day.
XtremepowerUS 1.5HP Swimming Pool Pump has a solar panel function that can save a lot of energy in the long run.
03. Can you clean and reuse pool filters?
Certain cartridge filters can be reused. Make sure your filter is not the disposable kind if you have plans to use them again.
To clean your pool filters, simply soak them in a chlorine water solution and let it sit for around 5 days. After that, rinse them with clean water and let them soak in diluted muriatic acid. This will dissolve all the mineral deposits and your cartridge filter will be ready to be used again.
04. Sand or cartridge, which pool filters are better?
This is totally personal to you and what you want. If you are looking for a long-lasting filter then sand filters are better.
If you’re looking for an easy filter with minimal maintenance, then cartridge filters are better. Each filter has its specific functions that cannot be replaced by another. So it’s better to find which filters will suit the type of pool you have.
05. Why does my pool filter get dirty so quickly?
This can happen for a number of reasons. One of them is using the wrong size of pump for your pool. If your pool is huge then you need a pump suitable for your pool size. Otherwise, the filters will clog faster.
If you have a DE filter, clogging might be an indicator of an oil spill. If some amount of oil finds its way to a DE filter through hair get or body products, it clogs the grids and blocks the filtration process. So make sure to only use water-soluble products.
So, What are You Waiting for?
Keeping your swimming pool clean and fresh all the time can be a tiresome and complex process. But with a good effective filter, this pressure can totally evaporate from your life.
Hopefully from these best above ground pool filter reviews, you have found something that suits your needs.
It’s all about finding what works for you. Our curated list includes all the best of the best in the market right now.
Remember, it’s always better to go larger than smaller. Keep in mind that each filter required different maintenance and care. So instead of buying the best rated one, go for what suits your lifestyle the most.
OUR #1 RECOMMENDATION
Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
The Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pools is the very best of the bunch when all the different filters are compared to each other.
Krystal Clear Sand Filter is the top pick simply because it’s one of the most advanced and efficient models from Intex! Unlike standard cartridge filters, it comes in a sand filter technology that makes cleaning efficient and eco-friendly.
This durable filter comes in six functions: filter, backwash, rinse, re-circulate, drain, and close system. It literally does everything you would want your filter pump to do.