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4 Best Sand Filter For Inground Pools
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Sand Filter For Inground Pools
When choosing a sand filter for your inground pool, it's important to focus on the features that affect water clarity, ease of maintenance, and overall performance. Sand filters are a popular choice due to their reliability and relatively simple operation. However, not all sand filters are the same, and picking the right one depends on your pool's size, frequency of use, and how much time you want to spend on maintenance. By understanding the key specifications, you can select a filter that keeps your pool water clean and minimizes hassle.Filter Size (Tank Diameter or Sand Capacity)The filter size is usually measured by the tank's diameter or the sand capacity in pounds. This spec matters because it determines how much water can be filtered at a time without straining the system. Smaller filters (typically less than 18 inches in diameter or under 150 pounds of sand) are best for small pools, while medium filters (around 19-24 inches or 150-300 pounds) suit average residential pools. Large filters (over 24 inches or more than 300 pounds) are ideal for big pools or heavy use. Always match the filter size to the volume of your pool water—oversizing is generally better than undersizing for clearer water and less maintenance.
Flow Rate (Gallons Per Minute/Gallons Per Hour)Flow rate tells you how much water the filter can process in a given amount of time, often listed as gallons per minute (GPM) or per hour (GPH). A proper flow rate ensures that the entire pool’s water circulates and gets filtered within 6-8 hours, called the turnover time. Lower flow rates (under 40 GPM) are suitable for smaller pools, while medium rates (40-75 GPM) fit typical backyard pools. High flow rates (over 75 GPM) are important for large or busy pools. To pick the right flow rate, match the filter's capability to your pool pump and pool size for efficient cleaning without overloading the system.
Valve Type (Multiport or Push-Pull)The valve type controls how you operate the filter, including backwashing and rinsing functions. Multiport valves offer several settings, like filter, backwash, rinse, waste, and recirculate, making maintenance more flexible and straightforward for most pool owners. Push-pull valves (also called slide valves) are simpler with fewer options, but can be easier to use if you prefer minimal control steps. Consider how comfortable you are with operating and maintaining the filter—if ease and versatility matter, a multiport valve is typically the best choice.
Filtration Rate (Micron Size)Filtration rate is about the smallest particle size the filter can remove, measured in microns. Sand filters usually remove particles down to about 20-40 microns. A lower number means finer filtration, but all sand filters are suitable for day-to-day pool cleaning, handling most debris and dirt. If you need exceptionally clear water (for example, if your pool is heavily used or you're sensitive to cloudy water), you might want to look for sand filters at the finer end of the range or consider filter aids. For general use, the standard range works well for most households.
Maintenance FeaturesSome sand filters include extra features that make maintenance easier, such as easy-access drain plugs, clear tops for visual checks, or self-cleaning cycles. These don’t impact filtering performance but reduce the time and effort needed for regular care. If you want a low-maintenance experience, look for these additions. Otherwise, a basic model will still perform the main job well if you don’t mind a bit more manual upkeep.