Sand filters for above-ground pools

Consult our comprehensive guide to select the model best suited to your pool's capacity, required flow rate, and desired filtration fineness.

• Filtration: normal use.
• Backwash: media cleaning (pump)ON), discharges into the sewer.
• Rinse: puts the sand bed back in place after backwashing (pump)ON → sewer).
• Waste / Sewer: filter bypass (suction → discharge), useful for lowering the water level or sucking up large debris.
• Recirculation:complete filter bypass(suction → return to the pool without going through the media). Practical formix productsor diagnose a filter problemwithout cloggingthe media.
• Closed:All exits closed.Never operate the pumpin this position (risk of overpressure). Only used to briefly isolate equipment when stopped.
• Winter / Winterize: position of decompression/storage for the off-season. Pump OFF, on drain the tank through the stopper, we remove the pressure gauge we leave the handle on Winterize(or between two notches depending on the model) for do not crush the joints.

• Periodicity all 4–6 years depending on usage/water.
• Signs Cloudy water despite backwash, unstable pressure return of fines in swimming pool, or “preferred routes” (pipes) visible when opening.

• Trigger: when the pressure rises by approximately + 20–25% vs. “clean” pressure.
• Routine: Backwash 2–3 min until the water runs clear in the sight glass, then rinse for 20–30 seconds before returning to Filtration.
• Trick: avoid the weekly “automatic” backwash; base it on themanometer.

• Clarity: filter cartridge finer (~5–10 microns) than sand (~20–40 microns).
• Pressure drop: cartridge ≈ low (good for variable speed pumps).
• Costs/maintenance: sand = backwash (water rejected) but little handling; cartridge = no water lost, but regular rinsing/soaking.
• Quick choice: If you wantsimplicity and robustness→ sand;ultra-clear water and water saving→ cartridge.