Top 15 Best Sand Filter for Above Ground Pool in 2021

A dirty pool significantly affects your swimming experience and your health. No one wants to swim in such pools. Whether it is leaves, debris, or any other elements, I’m sure you all want to remove all of them.

When it comes to the pool cleaning system, there is a full array of choices, including pool skimmers, pool vacuum, cartridge pool filter, etc. You may find it a bit confused about which tool is the best solution.

Well, each system comes with its strengths and drawbacks. However, if you want an economical option while being productive, a sand filter will be ideal.

Keeping that in mind, I have done thorough research and listed the 15 best sand filters for above ground pool. I put it into this review and give some more guides to help you make informed decisions before choosing an appropriate unit for your pool.

Now, let’s check it out!

What Is the Best Sand Filter for Above Ground Pool?

Now that you know how important it is to get a sand filter, not other pool filters. However, to choose the best one, you’ll need to discover more things, including specifications like GPH, pump motor, advantages, and disadvantages, etc.

To help you quickly picture the model you’re going to buy, I summarize the most outstanding features of some of the best sand filter for above ground pool. Have a look!

• Best Overall: Intex Krystal Clear 14′ Above Ground Pool Sand Filter
  “Incredible durable material; energy efficiency; advanced hydro aeration technology; automatic digital timer; easy-to-clean strainer basket.”
• Best Budget: Pentair 145322 Sand Dollar Top-Mount Pool Filter
  “Reasonable price; 6 functions; strong valve head; improve water clarity; offer relatively durable material.”
• Best Rated: GAME SandPRO 50D Series Above Ground Pool Sand Filter
  “Simple-to-read pressure gauge; energy efficiency; easy to assemble and operate; provide excellent quiet operation.”
• Best for Small Above Ground Pool: Blue Wave 12′ Sand Filter System
  “Complete accessories included; corrosion resistance; strong and durable material; low-cost maintenance; operate quietly.”
• Best for 24′ Above Ground Pool: Hayward W3S244T ProSeries Sand Filter
  “Powerful and flexible control valve; robust material; durability; corrosion protection; doesn’t require regular maintenance.”
• Best for 18′ Above Ground Pool: Hayward W3S180T ProSeries Sand Filter
  “Fast winterizing; high flow rate; sturdy tank; high-yield performance; corrosion prevention; prolonged lifespan.”
• Best for Intex Above Ground Pool: Intex 26679EG Krystal Clear Sand Filter
  “Excellent placement for Intex pools; boost water clarity; energy efficiency; automatic digital timer design; innovative hydro aeration technology.”
• Best Quality: Best Choice Products Pro Above Ground Pool Sand Filter
  “First-class material; durability; full accessories included; easy to assemble; evenly deliver water; enhance water clarity.”
• Best for 16000 Gallon Above Ground Pool: Hayward W3S166T1580S ProSeries Sand Filter
  “Additional stability; strong base; 7 effective functions; durability; ease of installation and operation.”
• Best for 7000 Gallon Above Ground Pool: Pentair 145333 Sand Dollar Top-Mount Pool Filter
  “Useful lateral design; high flow rate; 6 efficient functions; durability; easy to assemble and operate.”
• Most Durable: Raypak Protege Above Ground Pool Sand Filter
  “Exceptionally durable; sturdy base; tough conditions prevention; provide extra stability; energy efficiency.”
• Best Value for the Money: Hayward S200 Series Above Ground Pool Sand Filter
  “Durable ABS plastic material; extend longevity; high performance; strong filter tank; simple to assemble and operate.”

Comparison of Top 15 Best Sand Filter for Above Ground Pool 2021

Before diving into the details, I’d like to give you a big picture of the most highlighted specifications of the 15 best sand filter for above ground pool, including dimension, weight, design flow rate, and warranty. Have a look!

Top 15 Best Sand Filter for Above Ground Pool 2021 Reviews

After getting the necessary information about above sand filters, have you decided which model is best suited for your above ground pool? Whether the answer is yes or no, you should read through the following detailed review because I’m sure it helps you make the right decision.

Without reluctance, let’s find the best sand filter for above ground pool together.

1. Intex Krystal Clear 14′ Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

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The first and most incredible feature of the Intex Krystal Clear 14′ Sand Filter is its multi-function. The manufacturer offers 6 different cleaning methods, including filter, backwash, drain and close system, rinse, and recirculate.

That means you can do more than just filtering sand with this pump. It is also equipped with an innovative built-in timer, which can automatically turn on and off. This feature is considered an effective pool cleaning system with a lower cost.

What’s more, the Intex Krystal Clear can enhance water clarity with its advanced hydro aeration technology. This function powerfully purifies dirt, contaminants, and other particles, making the pool water crystal clear, as its name suggests.

2. Pentair 145322 Sand Dollar Top-Mount Pool Filter

(Best Budget)

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The Pentair 145322 Dollar Top-Mount is one of the best choices for a low-priced sand filter. It is designed with a filtration area of 2.3 ft sq., making it ideal for medium-sized above ground pools.

Moreover, this sand filter is constructed with a top-mount multiport valve on the filter tank’s top center, as its name implies. This feature offers you more options than standard valves. Usually, it comes with 6 different positions for a higher-efficient filtering process.

Besides the advantages that the top-mount multiport valve brings to users, it may cause internal issues if you don’t understand its operation. The reason is that it is a bit difficult to understand, and sometimes, it leads to some challenges to fix those problems.

3. GAME SandPRO 50D Series Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best Rated)

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The GAME SandPRO 50D Filter is a great choice for any levels and any above ground pools. It is equipped with a readable pressure gauge, allowing you to control the system more straightforwardly.

This sand filter will be ideal for those who easily get irritated with noises because it comes with a super-quiet feature. What’s more, it is designed with a high flow rate motor, providing optimum productivity.

Unlike the Pentair 145322, this GAME SandPRO 50D offers a rotary valve with 4 different filtration positions. However, these functions are easy to use, even for beginners. Besides, it has a large-capacity strainer basket, making it easier to clean.

4. Blue Wave 12′ Above Ground Pool Sand Filter System

(Best for Small Above Ground Pool)

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The Blue Wave 12′ Sand Filter is excellent for those who have a small above ground pool, as its name suggests. Besides, it is also easy to install and reliable, making it an ideal replacement for your existing filter pump.

This filter’s tank is made from durable and sturdy polyethylene. This rugged construction helps prevent harsh weather conditions. It is also corrosion-resistant, prolonging the lifespan of the filter.

Another incredible feature of the Blue Wave 12’ sand filter is that it doesn’t offer a cartridge. Therefore, you don’t need to spend too much time cleaning it, offering low maintenance.

5. Hayward W3S244T ProSeries Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best for 24′ Above Ground Pool)

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This Hayward W3S244T ProSeries sand filter offers both side-mount and top-mount valve control with even 6 or 7 different positions. This incredible feature allows you to use any valve function that is suitable for your water conditions.

Besides, its filter tank is made from a durable polymeric material. It also prevents corrosion, withstanding any severe conditions. Moreover, this rugged and strong material ensures the prolonged longevity of the filter system.

What’s more, the Hayward W3S244T comes with self-cleaning laterals. This feature not only improves the flow rate and backwashing, but it also minimizes maintenance.

6. Hayward W3S180T ProSeries Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best for 18′ Above Ground Pool)

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Another great model from Hayward, this Hayward W3S180T version is also made from durable, corrosion-free material. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about direct exposure to extreme conditions.

This sand filter is equipped with an umbrella-fold self-cleaning lateral and top diffuser. These two systems improve the flow rate while delivering the water consistently. Hence, you can expect energy efficiency and enduring and effective performance.

The Hayward W3S180T even works well under low pressure because the manufacturer has equipped an advanced VariFlo valve system. This design comes with 7 different positions, enhancing optimum flow.

7. Intex 26679EG Krystal Clear Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best for Intex Above Ground Pool)

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If you’re finding a replacement for your Intex pump, the Intex 26679EG sand filter will be an excellent option. It is integrated with hydro aeration technology, improving water clarity.

Moreover, this sand filter is designed with 6 powerful functions, optimizing the filtration and circulation. It also saves you lots of time cleaning because it has a built-in timer that automatically switches on and off.

More impressively, the Intex 26679EG comes with an ECO (electro catalytic oxidation) system. This incredible function effectively removes all the dangerous packaged chlorine, making the water crystal clear.

8. Best Choice Products Pro Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best Quality)

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This Best Choice Products Pro Sand Filter is made from a top-first thermoplastic material to ensure durability. Besides, it provides a high-capacity strainer basket for effectively collecting debris, creating crystal clear water.

Besides, the 4-way multiport valve gives you more powerful ways to distribute the water. What’s more, it doesn’t require too much maintenance while performing excellently.

Another great thing about the Best Choice Products Pro is that it is compatible with almost any above ground pools. And it comes with essential accessories, making the installation trouble-free.

9. Hayward W3S166T1580S ProSeries Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best for 16000 Gallon Above Ground Pool)

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The Hayward W3S166T1580S ProSeries sand filter is equipped with a 7-way valve, providing various ways to deliver water for filtration and backwashing evenly. From that, water clarity is improved significantly.

It can power a high flow rate, even under low pressure. The huge pressure drain allows you to winterize the above ground pool water more quickly.

Besides, the mounting base of the Hayward W3S166T1580S is made from durable thermoplastic. This material is strong enough to withstand tough conditions. It also provides additional stability for the filter during the operation.

10. Pentair 145333 Sand Dollar Top-Mount Pool Filter

(Best for 7000 Gallon Above Ground Pool)

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The Pentair 145333 Dollar Top-Mount sand filter is another great version of Pentair in my review. It offers only ½ square feet of filtration area. However, the filtration is relatively powerful because its design flow rate is up to 75 GPM.

It comes with a top-mounted valve design for a secure connection. What’s more, it is equipped with 6 different ways to choose an appropriate method for filtering out easily.

Besides, the Pentair 145333 is constructed with advanced lateral design, providing high performance while still being a budget-friendly operation.

11. Raypak Protege Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Most Durable)

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The Raypak Protege sand filter is made from exceptionally durable polymers. This material can withstand the high impacts and protect the filter from harmful UV rays. From that, the overall longevity of the system is significantly improved.

What’s more, this sand filter is equipped with a large and strong base, providing additional stability for the whole system. Its pressure gauge is also designed to be readable for any levels.

Besides, the Raypak Protege features a multiport valve on the filter’s top. This design allows you to connect to the hose more straightforwardly.

12. Hayward S200 Series Above Ground Pool Sand Filter

(Best Value for the Money)

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The Hayward S200 Series sand filter is simple to install while offering excellent filtration and backwashing. It is designed to deliver the water equally to boost water clarity.

Furthermore, the filter tank is made from premium ABS injection molding plastic. This material provides excellent reliable performance. What’s more, it is durable enough to hold out against extreme conditions.

The Hayward S200 not only offers easy installation, but it also offers simple operation. It is equipped with a 6-way VariFlo valve. This design allows you to handle any way of these 6 functions for appropriate and effective filtration.

13. Hayward W3S210T93S ProSeries Above Ground Pool Sand Filter System

(Best for Fast Winterizing)

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The Hayward W3S210T93S ProSeries sand filter is equipped with a massive pressure drain, making the winterizing process more quickly. Besides, this filter provides an optimum flow rate thanks to its advanced top diffuser.

What’s more, a 7-way multiport valve is integrated into this filter system. This feature helps you easily choose any suitable functions for the highest performance.

Lastly, the sand Hayward W3S210T93S gives you all the necessary accessories for improving filtration quality. These items include a durable polymeric tank, powerful valve, pump, sturdy base, and hose package. This full attachment also saves you lots of money on extras.

14. XtremepowerUS 24″ Above Inground Swimming Pool Sand Filter System

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The XtremepowerUS 24″ sand filter has a large tank that can hold around 300 pounds of sand. Hence, its maximum filtration is 29,400 gallons per day, which is ideal for large above ground pools.

What’s more, this filter system is equipped with a 7-function multiport valve. This design gives you more ways for effective filtration and backwashing. Consequently, it eliminates all contaminants, debris, creating crystal clear pool water.

It doesn’t seem that the XtremepowerUS 24″ sand filter comes with an automatic digital timer. That means you may have to turn on and off the filter manually.

15. Blue Wave 22′ Above Ground Pool Sand Filter System

(Highest Performance)

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The Blue Wave 22′ sand filter system’s tank is constructed with durable polyethylene. This material helps it stand up to tough conditions. Furthermore, it can prevent corrosion, extending the lifespan of the filter.

Besides, this filter is precisely engineered, providing proficient performance. From that, it can enhance the water clarity, making the pool water crystal clear.

What’s more, you can expect quiet operation even after a long time of usage. Another valuable feature of the Blue wave 22’ filter is that it offers full accessories for ease of assembly and money-saving.

How to choose the Best Sand Filter for Above Ground Pool – Buying Guide

The above review gives you the most outstanding features, pros, and cons of the 15 best sand filters for above ground pools.

Unfortunately, knowing its advantages and disadvantages is not enough. Even if you’re going to purchase a new sand filter or find a better one to replace the existing filter, you still need to consider some crucial criteria to make the right decision.

I know it’s a bit challenging to cover all these factors. That’s why I cover the 3 most vital things in this part. I hope this buying guide makes everything clearer and your purchasing decision stress-free.

Filter Size

The first important question to ask when buying a sand filter is what size sand filter you will need. That means you need to measure your pool size first.

Usually, every 10,000 gallons of pool water will need one square inch of filter area for the best performance. For instance, if your above ground pool can hold 25,000 gallons of water, a 25-inch filter tank will be ideal.

Gallons Per Hour (GPH)

Some of you may have heard that a pump needs around 10-20 hours per day to clean the pool thoroughly. However, this is not always the case because it depends on the pool size or the gallons of water.

The specification GPH lets you calculate how many hours you will need to run the filter pump to clean a certain volume of water in your above ground pool. For example, if you have a large pool, let’s say 20,000 gallons, I’d like to recommend the filter with at least 3900 GPH.

To help you easily decide appropriate GPH, I give sample math here. Let’s do the math before choosing any pump.

GPH = Total Volume of Water (Gallons) / the Number of Hours a Filter Pump Runs (in a day).

Budget

When it comes to filtering pumps, there are various types. However, a sand filter pump is always the most budget-friendly choice. It doesn’t cost extra except for the sand replacement fees, around every 5-7 years or so. What a great value!

The most significant thing to consider is what sand filter pump size you should buy for the best cost-beneficial.

Larger pumps seem to be more expensive to invest in the first stage. However, it can run a big capacity. That means it doesn’t require a frequent operation.

Smaller pumps, in contrast, have less initial costs. Nevertheless, you’ll need to run it regularly because its GPH isn’t as big as the large one. As a result, you have to maintain it more frequently and replace it sooner than those with larger volumes of water.

How to Install Sand Filter for Above Ground Pool?

Installing a sand filter for the above ground pool seems to be a difficult task. However, it is painless if you follow the following steps.

Firstly, put the sand filter pump as near your above ground pool as possible. For extra stability, you can put it on a big enough concrete brick or block.

Before connecting one hose with the pool skimmer and inlet port, remember to switch off the pump’s circuit breaker for safety reasons. The other hose will be connected to the outlet port, and its other end should be linked to the sand filter’s inlet port. Finally, turn on the circuit breaker.

Above are some basic steps to set up a sand filter pump. For more detailed instruction, watch the video below:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I bet you will have lots of questions in your mind when choosing the best sand filter for your above ground pool. It can be the pump’s size, price, operation, and so on.

I have found some of the most common questions that you may find answers to. Let’s check it out together!

What Size Sand Filter Do I Need for My Above Ground Pool?

It’s recommended to choose a sand filter pump with 1.5 sq. ft (at least 1 sq. ft) per 10,000 gallons of pool capacity. For instance, if a pump comes with a 1.60” sq. ft filtration area, it will be perfect for a pool with 16,000 gallons.

How Do Sand Filters Work for Above Ground Pools?

Firstly, it drives water through a tank with sand. This process allows debris, dirt, and other elements to be filtered out. After that, sand filters run to push the clean water back to the pool.

How Often Should You Change Sand in Pool Filter?

It depends on how the amount of debris you want to filter out. If your pool is dirty, you will need to run the pump more frequently. That means you will need to replace sand sooner and vice versa. But, sand is usually replaced every 5 years on average.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Sand in Pool Filter?

Usually, you will need around $290 – $1,440 to replace a sand filter itself, which is the same cost as buying a new one. If you hire a professional to install it, you may need to pay a bit extra fee.

Swim Network Overview

You may have different choices to eliminate contaminants and debris from your pool. However, the best sand filter pumps will effectively remove them with a reasonable budget.

As a whole, I’d like to recommend the Intex Krystal Clear 14′ Sand Filter. This model comes out on my top pick because it offers easy installation and low maintenance. More importantly, it is incredibly powerful and effective.

The Pentair 145322 Dollar Top-Mount will be the best budget option. And the Blue Wave 12′ Sand Filter System will be ideal for those having small above ground pools.

I hope that this review will help you select the best sand filter for your above ground pool. Consequently, you can enjoy crystal clear pool water. More importantly, it keeps you comfortable and healthy.

Finally, if you already choose a suitable sand filter, why not share this review so that others also find useful guides to pick a proper one for their pools.

Happy swimming!