Every pool owner knows that there is no functional, clean and safe swimming pool without a pool filter working to make that pool clean.
A swimming pool filter is to a swimming pool what the heart is to the body, it is the central functioning unit that ensures a constant flow of clean and safe water into your pool, and choosing the right pool filter goes a long way in the overall maintenance of your pool.
Knowing how essential swimming pool filters are and considering the variety in terms of types and brands, finding the right one for your pool could be a problem, but worry not as in the best pool filters guide you’ll get to know everything and anything related to pool filters and of course get to find the best pool filter for your pool.
The Best Pool Filters on The Market in 2022
The Best Sand Pool Filters
1. Intex 26645EG Krystal Clear Sand Filter
The Intex 12-inch Krystal Clear sand filter is a well-known model ultimately designed for above-ground pools and perfect assurance of quality crystal clear pool water.
Perfectly designed with a system flow rate of 1600 GPH, the number one sand filter pump has a 2.100 GPH pump flow rate designed to handle between 2,800- 12,800 gallons of above-ground pool water with ease.
As a cost-effective and low maintenance model, you enjoy improved water circulation and filtration, water clarity, and much more thanks to the Hydro Aeration technology inlet embedded in the model.
Plus, the filter system features 6 functions that range from filter to drain & close system for proper functionality, also comes with an automatic digital timer with a 1-12 hour cycle, all powered by a 25 feet GFCI power cord with a safety shutoff.
Pros
- Includes a strainer basket for easy cleaning
- Automatic timer and a safety shutoff
- 6 function control
- Improved filtration with clear water
- Includes two 1 1/2 inch connector hoses
Cons
- The air release valve is prone to malfunctioning
- Not ideal for large pools
2. Hayward S244T ProSeries Sand Filter
The Hayward brand is a very popular and reliable brand when it comes to quality assurance and functionality and the Hayward S244T model further proves that assertion.
This top-mount Hayward filter is considered a top-notch sand filter pump thanks to its durable and corrosion-proof 24-inch tank made from a fade-free polymer material.
In addition to that, the model has a 6-position multiport valve which includes an easy-to-use lever action, plus it also has a 7-way valve position with functions ranging from filter to winterization, backwash, rinse, and more.
Featuring advanced full-flow technology, the model is energy efficient and low maintenance ultimately designed with self-cleaning underdrain alongside 360 degree slotted laterals, including a sight glass, and a pressure gauge.
Pros
- Ideal for inground pools
- Includes a multiport valve
- Multi-functional
- Energy efficient
- Durable and weather-resistant tank
Cons
- Sand is purchased separately
3. Rx Clear Radiant Sand Filter
Pool owners looking for the perfect sand filters for their above-ground pools should consider Rx Clear as a major catch thanks to multi-functionality and size.
With a capacity to filter up to 16,000 gallons of water, and a flow rate of 35 GPM, the Rx Clear radiant 16-inch filter head contains luster balls rather than the conventional sand which are more lightweight than sand, won’t clog, and require less backwashing. And unlike other filters, its media option can be replaced with silica sand or filter glass
In addition to that, the filter media is capable of filtering up to 5-3 microns conveniently thereby giving your pool clean and non-toxic water free from any kind of debris.
Featuring one of the strongest filter tanks on the market, the one-piece blow-molded tank with standpipes and laterals offers a 3-year limited warranty that cannot be contested.
The RX Clear Radiant Sand Filter functions with a 6-way top mount filter valve with 1.5-inch threaded connections, and a 6-position valve. Plus the model is super easy to install and operate with a sight glass and drain plug.
Pros
- Easy installation and usage
- Powerful filtering capacity
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- Perfect for those new to pool filters
- Optimum flow rate for the output capacity
Cons
- Hose and filter media not included
The Best Cartridge Pool Filters
4. Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
In the category for pool cartridge filters, one cannot but mention the Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter pump which is the cartridge pool filter version in a line of highly functional models.
Fitted with the Hydro Aeration Technology inlet, the product offers improved water circulation, alongside cleaner and healthier water for the family all year round.
As an ideal above-ground pool filter, the cartridge pool filter is designed with a 1,000 GPH pump flow Rate with a 750 GPH system flow rate, the Intex Cartridge Filter pump is capable of filtering up to 6,000 gallons of water effectively.
In addition, this easy-to-install model features an air-release valve for air trapped inside the filter chamber for optimized flow and also comes with an easy-to-clean replaceable filter cartridge.
Pros
- Improved water circulation and flow
- Easy set-up and maintenance
- Highly functional
- Perfect for small above ground pools
Cons
- Ideal functionality is 8 hours
- Requires bi-weekly cartridge change
5. Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
Another major cartridge filter to consider on the market, especially for large above-ground pools is the Intex 28633EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump.
With a filtering capacity slated between 4,000 gallons and 15,200 gallons of water at a 2,500GPH pump flow rate and 1,900 GPH system flow rate, the 28633EG model is the perfect choice for much bigger pools that require larger filtering capacity.
In addition to its filtration size, this easy-to-install model comes partially assembled, and in terms of maintenance, it is super easy to maintain with its replaceable filters, interpreter, and strainer basket.
The cartridge filter also features a double insulated pump alongside sediment flush and air release valves. And for functionality, it comes with an automatic timer that is preset for 2 to 12-hour cycles.
Finally, with the Hydro Aeration Technology inlet fitted into the very durable tank, there is a guarantee of enjoying crystal clear water with improved filtration and flow as well as more negative ions with healthier air quality.
Pros
- Perfect for medium-sized and large pools
- Improve filtration and water quality
- Features an automatic timer
- Double insulated and durable pump
- Easy installation and usage
Cons
- Not all parts are included
- Requires bi-weekly cartridge swap
6. Hayward W3C9002 SwimClear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter
For pool owners that have 80-90 square feet in-ground pools and are in need of a sizable pool filter to do the job, then the Hayward SwimClear Cartridge is the perfect choice for you.
The 90 square feet filter is a very large single-element cartridge filter that features a single-piece injection molding all over the tank to protect it from any weather condition, for added strength and optimum performance.
Plus the model comes with a single knob to lock and hold the filter head to the tank making installation easy and fast. And for maintenance, the filter head rotates allowing for easy access to the cartridge element, gauge, and manual air relief valve whenever you need to swap.
Ideal for in-ground pools, this super-sized filter offers effective filtration with gasket molded end caps as well as its precision-designed element core for maximum filtration and flow at all times.
Pros
- Perfect filter system for large filtration
- Durable tank
- Easy installation and maintenance
- Perfect for in ground pools
- Assurance of maximum flow
Cons
- Not suitable for above-ground pools
The Best DE Pool Filters
7. Hayward W3DE3620 ProGrid Diatomaceous Earth Pool Filter
In the category of D.E filters, our first contender is another top-notch super functional filter pump made by Hayward, the Hayward ProGrid DE filter.
With an optimum functional capacity to filter water within a 36 square feet area, the Hayward ProGrid guarantees effectiveness by providing top-down backwashing and up-flow filtration for your convenience.
In addition to this, the filter includes a rapid-release manual air relief valve to improve its performance while it offers an average flow rate of 72 GPM.
The model boasts durability and strength with its tank made from durable glass-reinforced copolymer alongside a top-of-the-line tamper-proof one-piece flange clamp to hold both the top and bottom part of the tank securely.
Also, the tank bottom and top are self-aligned making it easy to access its filter elements in a fast and effective way.
Pros
- Durable design
- Low maintenance with easy cleaning access clamp
- Includes up-flow filtration and top-down backwashing
- Available in multiport and slide valve options
Cons
- The pressure gauge seems to have issues
8. Hayward EC40AC Perflex Extended-Cycle D.E. Pool Filter
If you want quality assurance from the first filtration for your swimming pool without stress, then you should consider buying the Hayward Perflex Extended-Cycle DE filter.
As one of the top D.E filters on the market, the Perflex model stands out for many reasons. One is the Patented Flex-Tube design it comes with which guarantees longer filtration cycles between cleaning to help renew the element inside, which is the Extended cycle feature.
In addition to that, this above-ground pool model features a unique bump mechanism designed to aid the flex-tubes to uniformly and instantly rid themselves of dirt as well as DE media.
Designed to cater for the filtration of about 20 feet square area, the Perflex model guarantees you a cleaner, clearer, and healthier pool water as it’s capable of cleaning particles as small as 2 microns at once.
Also, thanks to its extended cycle mode, you do not need to backwash the model at all, making its usage much easier for you.
Pros
- Unique extended cycle mode
- No backwash required
- Uniform self-cleaning capacity
- Ideal for above ground pools
- Filters up to 2 microns at the first attempt
Cons
- Quality control issues
9. Pentair 180009 FNS DE Filter Tank
For owners that have large in-ground pools and are on the lookout for a stress-free filter pump that will efficiently keep their pool clean and their water clear, then the Pentair FNS DE filter tank is their call.
For starters, this is one of the D.E filters that offers filtration capacity for large volume pools with the capacity to clean up to 57,600 gallons hourly in an 8-hour cycle and even go as far as 86,400 gallons in a 12-hour cycle at a flow rate of 120 GPM.
In addition to its high functionality, the filter pump and tank are super durable as they are made from reinforced fiberglass allowing them to withstand corrosion and function better.
In terms of functionality, the Pentair filter is capable of cleaning out particles as little as 5 microns, ridding your pool of dirt, algae, bacteria, and much more.
Just as it cleans your pool easily, it is also very easy and simple to clean as it comes with a one-inch drain alongside a vertical filter grid that makes removal for cleaning easy and efficient in no time.
Finally, in terms of installation, the model makes that just as easy as it comes ready-to-use for straight away filtration of your pool.
Pros
- High flow rate
- High cleaning capacity
- Easy and convenient maintenance
- Ready-to-use model
- Durable tank construction
Cons
- Must be inspected to ensure all parts are correctly installed before use.
- It’s quite tall
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Pool Filter
Types of pool filters
Before you consider getting any pool filter, you need to understand the various types of pool filters and how they work, to know the best type of pool filter that will be most compatible with your pool, your needs, and your pocket.
When it comes to pool filter types, there are three basic types on the market, sand pool filters, cartridge pool filters, and DE pool filters.
Sand pool filters
Pool sand filters are known as the smallest and oldest filters ever used in any swimming pool filtration system. Asides from being old in the game, it is also much cheaper in comparison to the other pool filters and this further accentuates its popularity in usage among pool owners, most especially older pool types.
The filtration system of a sand filter comprises a pool filter sand tank with the lower part filled up to about 75% of a special kind of filter sand (mostly silica sand and sometimes crushed glass) while the remaining 25% of the tank is left free for water. As the tank fills up with water from the pool the water passes through the sand which in turn filters out as much dirt and debris as possible from the water and once done, the clean, filtered water is pushed back into the pool.
A pool sand filter often features two modes of sand filter mode and backwash mode. While the sand filter mode is the one where the water filtration occurs, the backwash mode is the mode where the pool sand filter is cleaned out to rid it of accumulated dirt and debris that had been trapped while in the filter mode.
Sand filters are designed to filter particles of about 20-40 micros and often have a life span of 5-8 years depending on how often they are used. Plus considering the mechanism with which they work, i.e. the use of silica sand to filter the dirt a sand filtration system is only suitable for small pools with very little debris.
Cartridge pool filters
Cartridge filters are popular amongst environmentally conscious pool owners as they are the most environmentally-friendly option of pool filters available on the market.
Cartridge filters are tagged as eco-friendly because their tanks are generally made from spun polyester pleated and wrapped around a heavy plastic or PVC core with each cartridge being bound on each end with a heavy-duty rubbery plastic to connect the entire composition together.
Just like the sand filter uses sand to trap dirt from the pool water, the cartridge pool filter uses the cartridge to trap debris and other particles within it as the water flows through it. Once the water is cleaned out the dirt remains trapped on the filter cartridge and the clean water passes out of it.
Cartridge filters could possess a single filter cartridge with just one filter cartridge in the filtration system or be multi-filter cartridge filters which often contain two to four filter cartridges.
With its composition and surface area, a cartridge filter has an optimal life span of 2-4 years and is a great choice for small to medium pools also for inground pools, and for above-ground pools. Plus cartridge pool filter is easy to maintain and offers fast functionality with the capacity to filter and capture debris as small as 10-15 microns thanks to its finer filter media.
DE pool filters
DE filters or Diatomaceous earth filter is the modern version of a sand filter and of course most preferable for modern pool filtration systems.
While a sand filter contains sand, the DE filter contains a set of grids or fingers made of a cloth mesh-like material that is coated with DE powder.
The Diatomaceous Earth powder in itself is made from fossilized remains of microscopic algae-like organisms called diatoms and crushed seashells, and this, therefore, gives this type of pool filter its name Diatomaceous Earth.
Just like the other types of filtration, the DE filter utilizes the fingers or grips to trap debris, dirt, and oil as the pool water runs through the filtration system.
One of the perks of DE filters is their capacity to trap smaller and finer particles. De filters can trap tiny particles and debris as small as 2-5 micros which leads to faster filtration of particles, making them faster and of course highly effective.
This type of pool filter also requires a backwash to rid it of its dirt, oil, grease, and any other thing trapped in the fingers, and after backwashing, the DE content of the filter needs to be replenished with the addition of DE powder using a pool skimmer.
With its removable grids, you can easily clean out the filter using a garden hose and then return it back to the system.
Filtration efficiency and Filter capacity
Each filter type has its own optimum functionality level which occurs when paired with the right pool size measured in square feet, the optimum gallons of water, the right filter pump, and pool pump, and the average amount of debris to be cleaned.
Ideally, a small pool inground or above ground pool with 25,000 gallons of water needs a pool filter with that same capacity of water or even more.
Before you buy a new pool filter ensure that the size of the pool and the water capacity match to avoid overloading and overworking the filter pump beyond its capacity.
Installation
Each filtration system comes with its own components aside from the main filter tank and before you consider getting any, check how easy it is to install the full system.
Check out if the model comes with a pump and filter tank separately or if the pump and filter tank are together, check how easy the components fit, and if there is any form of instruction manual that will make the entire set-up easier.
Some models come ready-to-use making installation a no problem, but ensure that such models are inspected first to make sure that all components are well placed before plugging in and using.
Cost
While discussing the types of pool filters, we made mention of cost, and the truth is buying a pool filter above your pocket size is a great effort, but luckily there are more than enough options to choose from.
On a general scale, DE filters are the most expensive, cartridge filters are pocket-friendly with a moderate price tag and sand filters are the cheapest of the group.
Before you outrightly write off or consider any type, think about the kind of work your filter will encounter, as well as the long-term investment in it.
Maintenance
Just as you have to consider the cost of purchase and installation, there is also the cost of maintenance. Most pool filters are low maintenance requiring very little when it comes to cleaning, part replacement if need be, amongst other things to keep them functioning properly.
But there are certain models that require frequent attention especially in terms of the filter element or in terms of other parts like the gauge. Before purchasing any filter, it is advisable to read the reviews left by other users. This way you’ll know areas where you might have to worry about as well as how the performance and maintenance of the filter are like and what to expect.
FAQs
Do pool filters run all the time?
No, pool filters do not need to run all the time to save on electricity bills. For pool owners who use their pools more frequently, it is advisable to have the filter on for about 8 hours a day, and lesser if you use the pool even less.
How long do pool filters last?
It all depends on the type, the amount of cleaning the filter is involved in, and how often proper maintenance takes place. But on average, sand filters last between 3-7 years, filter cartridges last between 2-4 years, and DE pool filters last between 5-10 years.
Do pool filters use a lot of electricity?
No, pool filters do not use a lot of electricity. Averagely a pool filter pump adds 26 to 53 cents to the electricity bill per hour. For households that run their filters for an average of 8 hours that is about $2 for the whole process.
But note that the amount of electricity a pool filter uses varies based on the size of the pool, the volume of water, and the total hours it takes to filter fully.
When to replace the pool filter system?
A pool filter should be replaced when the general quality of the pool water is low with blue or green color, its debris-filled or unclear. Again if your pool filter requires more backwashing or cleaning, if it clogs easily, takes a long time to filter the entire pool, and makes pH balance difficult, then you know it is time to replace it.
Is a bigger pool filter better?
Yes, when buying a pool filter, the rule of thumb is the bigger the better because larger filters collect more dirt and debris and if they are larger than the pool, would require less cleaning.
Should I cover my pool filter for winter?
Yes, you should cover your pool filter to protect its exteriors from oxidization. To properly protect your filter from freezing, you should winterize it (from a setting on the filter head, drain it, unhook the hoses, dry it and store it till it’s ready to use next.
How often should pool filters be cleaned?
The cleaning rate of a pool filter depends on the type you have running in your pool. A cartridge filter should be cleaned every two to six weeks. A DE filter should be backwashed after one to three months of use and the pool sand filter should be washed every one to four weeks.
Note that to clean a pool filter you also have to consider the pressure level of the filter head. A sand filter and a DE filter should be backwashed after the pressure gauge indicates it being up 5-10 PSI while a cartridge filter’s pressure gauge reads lower than the other two.
Final Thoughts
Knowing that there is no swimming pool without an adequate and well-functioning swimming pool filter system, choosing the best pool filter is a great task that comes just after that of deciding to have a pool.
Hopefully, with the above guide on the best pool filters available on the market, you now know what to look out for in terms of functionality, brand, type, and requirements when choosing the most suitable filter for your own pool.