Is your above ground pool looking more like a murky pond than a sparkling oasis? You know the water needs to be clean, but when you look at the options for pool filters, your head starts to spin. Cartridge, sand, or D.E.? It feels like a complicated puzzle just to keep your summer fun afloat!
Choosing the right filter for your above ground pool is crucial. The wrong choice means cloudy water, constant cleaning headaches, and less time enjoying your backyard retreat. Many pool owners feel overwhelmed by the technical jargon and the sheer number of choices available. You just want clear water without the hassle, right?
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the main types of above ground pool filters in simple terms. You will learn the pros and cons of each system so you can confidently pick the filter that fits your budget and your cleaning style. Get ready to trade in your confusion for crystal-clear swimming conditions!
Top Above Ground Pool Filters Recommendations
- ✔ CONVENIENT MAINTENANCE – A must have cartridge to the INTEX Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump, this filter cartridge is made with easy-to-clean Dacron paper for the ultimate filtration
- ✔ FILTER PUMP COMPATIBILITY – For best use and results, the filter cartridge A by INTEX is compatible for filter pump models in of the following: 28603EG, 28637EG and 28635EG
- ✔ ROUTINE USAGE – For maximum efficiency and results for your above ground pool, the recommendation is to replace cartridges every two weeks for a clean and happy pool
- ✔ HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY – It's all in the bubbles; patented HydroAeration Technology by INTEX when using our filtration systems improves overall water circulation, clarity, and freshness in thousands of above ground pools
- ✔ SAFETY, QUALITY and VALUE – Intex designs, builds, and tests all its products to the highest standards with safety the first order of business; our affordable and innovative products are built to last
- Perfect Fit: Type A or C pool filter cartridge replacement for Intext Type A or C, 29000E, 59900E, compatible with intex filter pump models: 28603EG , 28637EG, 28635EG, 28671EG, 56635E, 56636E, 56637E, 56638E, 58603E, 58604E, 58623. Filter Dimensions: Length: 8"; Outside Diameter: 4 1/4"; Top & Bottom Openings: 1 15/16"
- NSF/ANSI 50 Certified : This filter cartridge is NSF International certified for superior material safety and global pool equipment compliance.
- Upgraded Tri-Lobe Fabric：Features an advanced tri-lobe non-woven fabric structure that captures 3X more debris with enhanced dirt-holding capacity. Effectively traps hair, leaves, dust, sand, sunscreen residues and other fine contaminants, delivering crystal-clear pool water every time.
- Long-Lasting Durable Performance：Reinforced end caps prevent cracking and corrosion for long-term use; the sturdy free-flow core and fiber pleats resist deformation, ensuring consistent, reliable filtration and smooth, unobstructed water flow at all times.
- Easy to Clean & Energy-Saving：Made of premium polyester with well-spaced pleats, debris rinses off effortlessly—saving your time and effort on maintenance. For optimal filtration results, we recommend cleaning or replacing the filter every 2 weeks. Regular maintenance not only extends the filter's lifespan but also protects your pool filter pump from damage and reduces energy consumption.
- Perfect Fit: Type A or C pool filter cartridge replacement for Intext Type A or C, 29000E, 59900E, compatible with intex filter pump models: 28603EG , 28637EG, 28635EG, 28671EG, 56635E, 56636E, 56637E, 56638E, 58603E, 58604E, 58623. Filter Dimensions: Length: 8"; Outside Diameter: 4 1/4"; Top & Bottom Openings: 1 15/16"
- NSF/ANSI 50 Certified : This filter cartridge is NSF International certified for superior material safety and global pool equipment compliance.
- Upgraded Tri-Lobe Fabric：Features an advanced tri-lobe non-woven fabric structure that captures 3X more debris with enhanced dirt-holding capacity. Effectively traps hair, leaves, dust, sand, sunscreen residues and other fine contaminants, delivering crystal-clear pool water every time.
- Long-Lasting Durable Performance：Reinforced end caps prevent cracking and corrosion for long-term use; the sturdy free-flow core and fiber pleats resist deformation, ensuring consistent, reliable filtration and smooth, unobstructed water flow at all times.
- Easy to Clean & Energy-Saving：Made of premium polyester with well-spaced pleats, debris rinses off effortlessly—saving your time and effort on maintenance. For optimal filtration results, we recommend cleaning or replacing the filter every 2 weeks. Regular maintenance not only extends the filter's lifespan but also protects your pool filter pump from damage and reduces energy consumption.
- Improved Water Clarity - This above-ground pool filter pump delivers a 1,000 GPH filtration capacity and uses hydroaeration technology, which significantly enhances water circulation and filtration. This technology increases the concentration of negative ions in the water while actively maintaining pH levels between 7 and 7.4—a range ideal for clean, chemically balanced, and healthy pool water.
- Clearer Water - KimFilter 1000-gallon above-ground pool pump features an efficient Type A/C cartridge design for superior filtration. It effectively removes visible debris—including leaves, sand, and fine impurities—while filtering out tiny suspended particles to enhance water clarity. This ensures your pool stays crystal clear, free from contaminants, and ready for endless family fun. Dive into pristine water you can trust!
- ETL Safety Certification - Your safety is the driving force behind every innovation at KimFilter. Our pool filter pump is ETL-certified and rigorously tested to meet ASTM/UL safety standards, ensuring unmatched protection. Its built-in Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) detects ground faults or current leaks and cuts power within milliseconds. Whether children are playing nearby or adults are relaxing by the water, rest assured that every swim is backed by top-tier safety measures.
- Premier Pool Care - Our pool cartridge filter pump features simple assembly and operation, which is designed for everyone—from seasoned pool owners to first-time users. Start enjoying more swim time and less maintenance hassle. With powerful filtration and low-maintenance operation, it’s the ideal solution for a crystal-clear pool. Transform your pool today and give your family a healthier, more secure swimming experience!
- Customer First - KimFilter above-ground pool filter pumps system are designed, manufactured, and rigorously tested to meet industry-leading standards. Crafted with high-quality polypropylene materials, they deliver long-lasting durability and powerful filtration—keeping your pool water crystal clear for boundless family enjoyment. Your satisfaction drives us: Have questions or suggestions? Our team is here to help!
- Pack of 6 type A or C 29000E/59900E filter cartridge, for use with INTEX above ground pools, compatible with 530,1000, 1500 GPH filter pump models: 603,604/G,637R,638R/G,635T,636T/G, C1000, C1500
- Also compatible with Summer Waves canisters: RX & SFX 1000, RX & SFX 1500, RP & SFS 700/800, RP & SFS 1000, RP & SFS 1500, RP & SFS 2000 (2013 & newer), CP2000-C; compares to SummerWaves Model P57100202 Type A/C
- Made with easy to clean dacron material; filter cartridge should be replaced every two weeks
- Dimension of each filter: 8*4.3*4.3(inch), 20.3*10.9*10.9(cm), Top and Bottom hole size: 2".
- Premium quality Volca Spares brand product
- ✔ EXCELLENT FILTRATION – SX2800 provides excellent water filtration with the 6-function valve that allows you to filter, backwash, rinse, re-circulate, drain and close the system.
- ✔ 24 HOUR TIMER – The sand pool pump has a built-in 24-hour timer with 2 to 12 hour pre-set cycles, providing easy scheduling and a hassle-free experience with automatic operation.
- ✔ EASY INSTALLATION – Just hook up hoses and plug in! This pump is suitable for INTEX above ground pools from up to 17,200 gallons. Partial assembly is required and includes (2) 1.5 inch (38 mm) connector hoses.
- ✔ LOW MAINTENANCE PUMP FEATURES – This 26647EG pump requires virtually no maintenance since sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing. Includes a capacity water flow rate of 2,800 gph (10,599 lph) and an in-pool system flow rate of 2,150 gph (8,138 lph); 2-year limited warranty included
- ✔ HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY BY INTEX -– Transforming the Above Ground Pool industry, by bringing revolutionary water aeration benefits such as improved circulation and filtration, improved water clarity, increased negative ions at the water surface.
- Pack of 4 Premium Quality Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges that are compatible with all above-ground pools and pumps that use type A or C filters, as well as type III filters. Filter cartridges replace Intex 59900E and 29000E filter cartridges
- The filters are made with premium quality polyethylene terephthalate fibers for advanced superior cleaning, as they provide crystal clear water filtration. Filters contain a durable hard plastic iner core that is collapse-resistant
- For use in pool pumps that range from 530 gallons per hour to 2,000 gallons per hour. For best performance, replace the filter every two weeks. Filters are washable easy to replace and clean filter cartridges with long service lives
- Filters are compatible with several brands of cartridge filter pumps. Intex models: 28603EG (603), 28637EG (637R), 28635EG (635T), 604/G, 636T/G, 638R/G. Bestway models: 58384(E), 58387, 58388E, 58389, 58390(E). Summer Waves models: RX1000, RX1500, RP800, RP1000, RP1500, RP2000, SFS1000, SFS1500, SFS2000, CP2000-C.
- Filter dimensions: 8" high x 4.25" diameter with a nearly 2" diameter center hole
- Compatible With Type A/C/III Filters: 8x4.2 inch diameter, 1.9 inch center hole diameter, premium universal replacement pool filter, compatible with all above-ground pools and pumps using Type A or C or III filters (please measure the old pool pump filter before purchasing)
- Triples Powerful Filtration Performance: Our filter paper uses polyester cloth, innovative trilobal filtration fabric structure and folding design, which increases the filtration area and triples the dirt absorption capacity compared to the circular fabric on the market, effectively capturing leaves, hair, sand, sediment, etc., to keep the water clean
- Reusable Pool Filter Cartridges: Our filter cartridge has two hard plastic mesh structures that will not collapse, and can stably fix the filter paper in the middle, reinforce the end cap, and is not easy to melt or break. When you need to replace it, just replace the filter paper in the middle. Not only can it be reused, but it is also more economical and environmentally friendly
- Save a Quarter: Reusable pool filter cartridges are designed to significantly reduce packaging logistics costs, which will also reduce your cost of use. We calculated that the purchase cost of a single pool filter cartridge is about one-quarter less than that of a traditional disposable pool filter
- Easy to Clean & Replace: You will receive a pool filter cartridge and 12 packs of pool filter paper. When the filter paper is dirty, just open the filter cartridge and replace it with a new one. In order to maximize its effectiveness and protect water quality, it is recommended to replace the filter paper every two weeks
Choosing the Right Filter for Your Above Ground Oasis
Keeping your above ground pool sparkling clean is key to summer fun. A good filter is the heart of your pool system. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an above ground pool filter, several features really matter. These elements determine how well your filter cleans your water and how much work you have to do.
1. Filter Type
There are three main types of above ground pool filters:
- Cartridge Filters: These use a pleated fabric element. They trap small debris well and are easy to clean—you just remove and hose them off.
- Sand Filters: These use special pool sand. Water flows through the sand, trapping dirt. They are very durable but require backwashing (a process to clean the sand) periodically.
- D.E. (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters: These offer the finest filtration, catching the smallest particles. They provide the clearest water but require the most maintenance, involving regular recharging with D.E. powder.
2. Flow Rate (GPM)
Flow rate, measured in Gallons Per Minute (GPM), tells you how fast the filter cleans your water. Your filter must match your pump’s power. A filter that is too small will struggle to keep up with a strong pump, leading to cloudy water. Check your pool’s volume and the pump’s rating to ensure a good match.
3. Filter Size and Capacity
Bigger filters can handle more dirt before needing cleaning. For busy pools or pools used often, select a larger filter size. This reduces cleaning downtime.
Important Materials That Matter
The materials used in your filter housing and internal components affect its lifespan and safety.
Filter Housing Durability
Most above ground filter tanks are made from durable plastic, often high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or fiberglass. Look for tanks that resist UV rays. Sunlight can make weaker plastics brittle over time. Strong, thick housing prevents leaks and cracks.
Internal Components
For cartridge filters, the material of the pleated fabric is important. Higher-quality polyester lasts longer and resists tearing when you clean it. Sand filters rely on quality filter sand or glass media; ensure the media is rated for pool use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one filter better than another? It often comes down to maintenance and performance under pressure.
Quality Boosters
A filter with a good pressure gauge helps you monitor performance. When the pressure rises, you know it’s time to clean. Easy-to-access drain plugs simplify maintenance. Cartridge filters that use thicker, more robust pleats last longer between replacements.
Quality Reducers
Cheap seals and gaskets are a major problem. Poor seals often lead to leaks, especially as the filter ages or experiences high pressure. Filters that require complicated disassembly for routine cleaning reduce user satisfaction quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your pool. This helps decide which filter type suits your lifestyle.
For the Low-Maintenance User: Sand filters are often the preferred choice. They run for long periods without much intervention, only needing occasional backwashing.
For the Beginner Pool Owner: Cartridge filters are very simple to operate. You don’t deal with chemicals like sand or D.E. powder. Cleaning involves just spraying the cartridge down.
For the Perfectionist: If crystal-clear water is your top priority, a D.E. filter provides superior filtration results, though it demands more hands-on time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I clean my cartridge filter?
A: You should clean your cartridge filter when the pressure gauge reads 8–10 PSI higher than its clean starting pressure. Usually, this means cleaning every 4 to 6 weeks during peak swimming season.
Q: Can I use a sand filter with any pump?
A: No. You must match the sand filter’s flow rate capacity to your pump’s flow rate. An undersized filter will not clean well, and an oversized one might not operate efficiently.
Q: Which filter type costs the least to maintain long-term?
A: Sand filters generally have the lowest ongoing material costs. You replace the sand typically every 5 to 8 years, which is less frequent than replacing cartridge elements.
Q: What does “backwashing” mean for a sand filter?
A: Backwashing reverses the water flow through the sand bed. This washes trapped debris out of the filter and down the waste line, cleaning the sand for reuse.
Q: Are D.E. filters safe to use around kids and pets?
A: Yes, the D.E. powder itself is a fine, naturally occurring mineral. However, handling the dry powder requires care (wear a mask), and you must dispose of the dirty filter backwash properly according to local rules.
Q: What PSI (pounds per square inch) is too high for my filter?
A: Generally, if the pressure is 10 PSI higher than the clean starting pressure, it needs service. Operating consistently above 25–30 PSI can strain the filter tank and potentially cause damage.
Q: Do I need to remove the filter when closing the pool for winter?
A: Yes. You should always drain all water from the filter tank, cartridge, or sand bed before freezing temperatures arrive to prevent cracking.
Q: How long do above ground pool filters usually last?
A: Cartridge elements last 1 to 3 seasons before needing replacement. Sand filter tanks often last 10 to 15 years, while D.E. grids might last 5 to 10 years.
Q: Is it better to buy a filter with a multiport valve?
A: Multiport valves (common on sand and D.E. filters) make switching between functions like filtering, backwashing, and rinsing very easy. They greatly improve user experience.
Q: What is the first thing I should check if my pool water looks cloudy?
A: Check your filter’s pressure gauge first. High pressure means the filter is clogged and needs cleaning, which is the most common cause of cloudy water.