Filters for above-ground pools

• 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.

Consult our comprehensive guide to select the optimal model based on your pool size, water flow rate, and desired filtration capacity.

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

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

Rinsingto the casing by opening the foldsevery 2–4 weeks(more often if pollen/high usage).

Degreasing soak(filter product)every 8-12 weeksor from persistent loss of flow/high pressure.

Air purgeeach time it is put back into service.

• 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.

• 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.

• Pressurewhich remains highAfterrinse + soak.
• Crushed/opened folds, seam coming undone,unraveling media.
• Insufficient flow rateDespite pump being OK and basket clean. → Replacement.