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 ofdecompression/storagefor the off-season. PumpOFF, ondrainthe tank through the stopper, weremove the pressure gaugewe leave the handle onWinterize(or between two notches depending on the model) fordo not crush the joints.

• Periodicityall 4–6 yearsdepending on usage/water.
• SignsCloudy water despite backwash, unstable pressurereturn of finesin swimming pool, or “preferred routes” (pipes) visible when opening.

• Trigger: when the pressure rises by approximately+20–25%vs. “clean” pressure.
• RoutineBackwash 2–3 min until the water runs clear in the sight glass, thenRinse for 20–30 secondsbefore returning toFiltration.
• 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.