If you’re looking for the best above ground pool filter system that makes the water safe for your kids to play in, this is the right place to be.
In this review, we are counting down the top 5 filter systems that work best for many pool sizes from small to large. Plus, they are simple to use and easy to maintain. Check them out now!
Best Above Ground Pool Filter System Brands
SandMaster
SandMaster makes super affordable filter systems that suit many families. Not only that, their pumps work well and last for a decent amount of time. This is a great choice for budget-conscious families.
Intex
Intex is another big name in the industry. You can trust their products’ quality and durability. Although they are not very cheap, Intex pumps work great with many pools, not limited to Intex pools.
Rx Clear
Rx Clear is a brand that produces more mid-range to high-end filters. Their pumps are super powerful. Because of that, the price is also high. You can rely on its power if you need filtration for big pools.
Hayward
Hayward is another brand many people trust. Their products are versatile and multi-functional. They have awesome cartridge filters if you need those for your pools.
Top 5 Best Above Ground Pool Filter System
Sand Master Soft Sided Above Ground Pool Sand Filter System – Best Value for Money
Want the best filter system that works for pools up to 9,600 gallons? This is the most affordable option while still delivering excellent performance on filtering.
This great little guy is suitable for pools up to 9,600 gallons. In fact, it fits many pool sizes as well—whether it’s a Summer Escapes pool or a Coleman pool.
The big filter tank can hold up to 42 lbs of filter sand. The filter sand is something that you should get separately at Home Depot.
Setting up this pump is incredibly easy. Be sure not to tighten the hose too much because it can lead to cracking.
Thanks to the backwashing feature, maintaining the pump is easy and hassle-free.
With its powerful 20 GPM 115V pump, your pool water will be crystal clear and safe for kids to use. The 4-position multiport valve will make water circulation to all 4 directions in your pool.
It would be even better if the pump had an on/off switch. When you hook this thing up, you can use some lithium grease on the gasket surfaces to make sure there is no water leakage. Coupled with a chlorine tab, this affordable sand filter pump will keep your above ground pool water clean and safe for the family to use.
Pros
- Fits many pools like 14×42 or 15×42 Summer Escapes pools
- Big filter tank that holds up to 42 lbs of filter sand
- Simple componentry that is quick & easy to install
- 20 GPM power pump that makes water crystal clear
Cons
- Doesn’t have an on/off switch
- Overtightening the hose can lead to cracking
Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump – Great for 5000+-Gallon Pools
If you’re looking for a well-priced pool filter that is easy to maintain and safe to use, this sand filter pump is the one you must check out.
It features an excellent 6-function filtration system that allows you to rinse, backwash, or filter your pool depending on your needs.
With the 24-hour built-in timer, the filter will automatically operate for 2 12-hour cycles to move water in and out of the pool.
Compared to traditional cartridge filters, this sand filter lasts two or three years longer and is effective in filtering out nasty stuff in the water.
Because this pump has a closed system design, water will be re-circulated to provide you with the cleanest water to swim in and save you tons of money on water bills.
Thanks to the smart GFCI ground fault circuit interrupter, your pool will automatically shut off if it detects anything dangerous while operating.
Be sure to check the box carefully when you receive your filter. Because some customers have experienced missing parts upon the package arrival.
You do need to get your own sand filter at your local hardware stores.
If you want to hook an extra pool heater on, you may need to check the type of heater. Because this pump doesn’t work for some but may work for others. Overall, this awesome sand filter pump will get the job done. It keeps the water clean and clear for pools from 5,000 gallons and up. Reliable stuff!
Pros
- Excellent 6-function water filtration allows pool owners to filter, backwash, and rinse
- 24-hour built-in timer to reduce maintenance & prolong the life of the sand filter
- GFCI technology for safe automatic shut-off
- A close system that can recirculate water to save money
Cons:
- Missing needed parts
- The sand filter is not supplied with the pump
- May or may not work with some pool heaters
Rx Clear Radiant Complete Sand Filter System– Most Multi-functional Filter Pump
Need a super turbo filter that works the best for your big family pool? Well, here is the one for you.
This is one of the most multi-functional filter pumps available on the market. It can filter your water, backwash itself, chlorinate your water, and automatically run based on your command.
It has an impressive 1 horsepower engine that can filter pools up to 21,000 gallons. The huge sand filter tank can hold 175 lbs of sand for more extreme filtering.
Although it is powerful, setting the thing up is pretty easy. It has a one-piece construction that sits on a universally sized base. All you need to do is to connect the hoses and voila.
You will also see a see-thru screen on the machine. This allows you to check the operation when it is running—whether there is any insects or bees caught into the strainer.
If you have a small pool, then this filter pump may be a bit oversized. It can be too much to spend on if your pool is under 21,000 gallons.
Also, some users have difficulty shutting off the machine. They need to hook an extra shut off, so the pump doesn’t run at all times.
Other than those downsides, this is a truly powerful engine that you should equip for you above ground pool if you want some real filtration power.
Pros:
- All-in-one filter pump that has the filter, backwash, chlorination, and timer function
- Super powerful 1HP pump that takes up to 175 lbs of sand
- The one-piece component makes installing super easy
- See-thru screen to ensure free-flowing of water at all times
Cons:
- Oversized for smaller pools
- There is no shut off switch
- Quite expensive
Hayward CC15093S XStream 1.5 HP– Powerful & Easy to Control Cartridge Filter
Need a powerful cartridge filter that is easy to use? Look no further because this one will suit your need well.
It comes with a super large 21-inch glass-reinforced filter tank that lasts a long time. Together with Power-Flo Matrix technology, the filter will give your pools crystal clear & contaminant-free water.
With its 1.5 HP motor, water will be more evenly distributed throughout your pool. The cleaning power is well beyond expectations.
Setting this thing up is easy thanks to its Easy-Lok ring design. All you need is just a twist to open and close the components.
This design also makes it easy and hassle-free to maintain the system over time.
Unlike many other models on the market, this Hayward filter has an on/off switch. This makes it more flexible for rigid or flexible water usage. You don’t have to rely on the only automatic option.
Because of all these awesome features packed into it, the machine is quite pricey. However, it is worth investing if you truly need a reliable system.
Unlike the sand filter pumps, this cartridge filter system can be a bit hard to clean. Because there is no backwash feature.
Many people buy a divider valve to separate the pump and filter valves, so the water doesn’t get dirty.
In summary, you should definitely check this model out if you need a powerful filtration system that is easy to control and maintain.
Pros:
- Non-corrosive filter tank that lasts & extends filtering life
- 1.5 HP for super-powerful filtering & distribution of clean water
- Easy-Lok ring to open & close components in just one action
- Included on/off switch for the easiest & most flexible control
Cons:
- Pricey
- More difficult to clean than a sand filter
Doheny’s Sand Filter Systems 24 in Tank 1.5HP Pump– Efficient Pump for Big Pools
Have a giant above ground pool at home and want to take water filtration to the next level? Then, you must not miss this filter system.
Featured a giant 24-inch tank, the machine can hold up to 300 lbs of sand or 150 lbs of ZeoSand. Either one, you will get a tremendous amount of water filtration thanks to the rich amount of media.
It runs efficiently to save you electricity and money. With the strong polymeric filters and multiport valve, your pool will get crystal clear water that looks nice and is safe to swim in.
Be aware, however, that the switch on this model is not very durable. It may break if we apply too much force on it.
Also, for folks who love a little decoration, the sticker on the top of the machine does come off after some uses.
All in all, the system is up to par. It passes quality standard and is suitable if you have filtration need for large pools in the long run.
Pros:
- 24-inch tank that holds 300 lbs of filter sand or 150 lbs of ZeoSand
- Efficient power consumption to save electricity & money
- Strong polymeric filters with multiport valve for the best water clarity
Cons:
- The switch is not very durable
- The sticker on the valve is not very sticky
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Filter Systems
How much are an above ground pool pump and filter?
A cheap one is around $100. If you need more power, be prepared to invest about $300 to over $500. It will be worth it for the long run.
Do above-ground pool pumps need to run all the time?
No, it is not really necessary to run the pump all the time. It is a good idea to filter your pool water every single day or so. But once your pool is filled with water, you can turn off the pump to save electricity.
How often should you backwash your above ground pool?
Depends on how often you and your family members use the pool filter system. As good practice, you may want to backwash it once a week if you use the pool weekly. If you use it less frequently, then biweekly or monthly backwashing would be fine.
How to clean the cartridge filter?
This video might help you:
How to set up an above ground pool filter?
Watch this demonstration:
Your Turn to Choose
After reading our in-depth reviews, we hope that you were able to pick some good models for your family.
Remember, to find the best filter system, don’t forget to check its power, power consumption, voltage, capacity, and of course price.
Hope that helps and have a great time in clean and clear water!