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Recommended Best Pool Filters at Different Prices in 2024
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If you want a clean pool, you have to choose the right pool filter. Technologies used in pool filters have gone beyond expectations today, and you may come across a plethora of options on the market.
This versatility in options might make you perplexed in the beginning but don’t fret; we are here to talk about the best pool filters across diverse price ranges currently on the market to simplify your final decision-making.
A. Budget-Friendly Pool Filters | Under $150
1. Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
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The Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump is specifically engineered for above-ground pools. It comes with diverse features such as varying flow rates—including 925 GPH, 2100 GPH, and 2800 GPH—so it can cover pools of different sizes.
Intex’s pool filter is armed with a 6-function control valve that offers six settings: filter, backwash, rinse, recirculate, drain, and close system. It is also equipped with a built-in 24-hour timer that features 2- to 12-hour preset cycles for automatic operation.
This pool filter includes a strainer basket for easy cleaning and lengthened sand filter life. Also, it comes with the Hydro Aeration technology that enhances circulation and water clarity and augments negative ions at the water surface. Despite all the benefits, short hoses of this filter are a concern for some users.
2. PoolPure PLF120A Pool Filter
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The PoolPure PLF120A is a wonderful replacement pool filter cartridge. It is meticulously engineered to fit several filter models, including the Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200 and CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120, Unicel C-8412, and Filbur FC-1293.
PoolPure’s pool filter is armed with a unique trilobal filtration fabric that empowers it to capture a huge amount of contaminants, such as hair, leaves, dust, sediment, and sand. It comes with a reinforced core designed to resist high-pressure water flow, which lengthens its lifespan considerably.
The pleated fabric structure of this filter simplifies its cleaning. Also, its high filtration area (120 sq. ft.) enables powerful pool cleaning. Despite all the positive facts, the lack of automatic backwashing in this filter can be a concern for some.
3. Bestway Sand Filter Pump
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The Bestway Sand Filter Pump is an incredible option for smaller above-ground pools. It comes with an effortless setup and negligible maintenance. The notable feature of this filter is its built-in skimmer basket that pulls out large debris before it reaches the filtration sand.
Bestway’s filter is armed with a ChemConnect dispenser that distributes chlorine and other chemicals evenly throughout the pool. Although you need to purchase the sand for this filter separately, you just need to replace it every 3 years.
The rotating top flange cap of this filter helps users switch between different modes such as backflushing with ease. Also, the included pressure gauge allows users to find out when the system needs servicing. Still, it should be noted that the capacity of this filter is limited to pools of up to 4,800 gallons.
B. Mid-Range Pool Filters | $150 to $400
1. PoolPure PLFPCC130 Pool Filter
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This specific PoolPure pool filter is engineered to replace diverse Pentair pool filters. It comes with a high-performance filtration and NSF/ANSI 50 certification to guarantee the clarity of your pool water.
The state-of-the-art Dirt-Locking technology in this pool filter sweetens the fabric’s capacity to trap contaminants like hair, leaves, dust, and sand. Its trilobal filtration fabric structure—which is easy to clean—maximizes the filter’s ability to capture a large amount of debris.
The specific dimensions of PoolPure’s filter empower it to fit several popular pool filters, including Pentair CCP 520, Pentair 160332, and more. What’s more, PoolPure offers a 100% money-back guarantee and a lifetime warranty on defects for this product.
2. Intex Sand Filter Pump
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The Intex Sand Filter Pump is a fantastic filtration equipment for above-ground pools. It comes with the advanced timer function which lets you set filtration cycles between 2 and 12 hours. This helps you optimize your filtration and minimize energy consumption at the same time.
The pump can powerfully support flow rates between 925 and 3,000 GPM. This makes it suitable for pool capacities between 5,500 and 17,200 gallons. It can plug into a standard wall outlet and needs just a solid surface to set up.
You need to purchase the sand for this pool filter separately, but its original sand can last 5 years. It can operate quietly. Also, thanks to the pump’s readable and usable controls, you can effortlessly make adjustments. Still, you should know that the pump does not offer variable speed support.
3. Hayward W3C500 Pool Filter
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The Hayward W3C500 Pool Filter is a cartridge-based filtration system that’s amazing for both above-ground and in-ground pools. It comes with effortless maintenance thanks to its single-element cartridge design. Also, its filter head is secured by a single locking knob that simplifies access to the cartridge.
This Hayward pool filter is armed with an elevated water collector and debris sump that prevents debris from returning to the pool during maintenance. Its reusable and washable cartridges can last up to 3 years.
What’s more, the filter is equipped with durable, corrosion-resistant construction, which makes it highly enduring. Despite all the benefits, the filter demands recurring cleaning and might not be a top choice for heavily used pools.
C. Premium Pool Filters | $400 to $800
1. Swimline HydroTools Pool Sand Filter
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The Swimline HydroTools Pool Sand Filter is a mighty filtration system that’s ideal for large pools of up to 21,000 gallons. It is armed with a powerful, 1.2 HP pump that can process up to 4,980 gallons of water per hour.
The system works with minimal noise. Its 24” sand filter can house almost 300 pounds of sand, hence less frequent sand replacements. The filter is highly durable and includes a 7-way multiport valve that enables versatile operation modes such as backwashing and rinsing.
Furthermore, this pool filter comes with everything required for installation, including hoses, fittings, the pump, and the filter base. Still, it should be noted that the tank is prone to cracking, and the sand is sold separately.
2. Hayward W3C12002 StarClear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter
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The Hayward W3C12002 StarClear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter is known as a high-performance filter for in-ground pools. Its 120-square-foot filtration area and its flow rate of 120 GPM enable this filter to extract debris, even in highly dirty pools.
The large cartridge capacity of this filter guarantees optimal filtration. Its negligible maintenance requirements prevent the need for backwashing or sand changes. The single-locking knob design makes the cartridge easily accessible and the glass-reinforced copolymer tank heightens its durability and corrosion resistance.
What’s more, this Hayward filter operates quietly and can support pools of up to 27,000 gallons in capacity. Still, the only downside is that the filter’s pressure gauge might be fragile in some cases.
3. Jacuzzi 16” Above-Ground Sand Filter
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The Jacuzzi 16” Above Ground Sand Filter is a powerful filtration system specifically engineered for hard-wall above-ground pools. It comes with a 16” diameter sand filter and a strong 1.5 HP dual-speed pump.
The sand bed in this filter can hold up to roughly 100 pounds of sand. It is armed with a 7-position operating valve for various functions, including filtering, backwashing, rinsing, recirculating, draining, and winterizing.
Moreover, Jacuzzi’s filter is offered with a corrosion-proof filter tank with a thermoplastic base that maximizes its durability. Also, the filter’s air relief valve prevents air buildup. Still, you need to have enough space to install this filter.
D. High-End Pool Filters | Over $800
1. Hayward W3EC50C93S Perflex DE Filter Pump System for Above-Ground Pools
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The Hayward W3EC50C93S Perflex 1.5 HP DE Filter Pump System is specifically designed for above-ground pools. It is equipped with several striking features such as a patented Flex-Tube design that powerfully extracts microscopic particles as small as one micron.
The filter comes with a self-cleaning mechanism and an exclusive bump handle that purges dirt and DE powder to preserve the filter’s optimal performance. Its decisive 1.5 HP PowerFlo Matrix pump comes with an industrial-size strainer basket that collects debris smoothly.
Furthermore, the filter offers a quick-connect/disconnect intake and discharge connection that simplifies your installation considerably. Still, you may need help with some installation steps if you are not a pro.
2. Pentair EC-180009 FNS Plus DE Pool Filter
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The Pentair EC-180009 FNS Plus DE Pool Filter delivers outstanding filtration performance as an ideal choice for those in need of heightened water clarity in large in-ground pools. It employs a DE system that filters particles impressively down to 5 microns.
The filter’s fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene tank is extremely durable and withstands tough conditions. Its 60-square-foot filtration area and a flow rate of up to 150 GPM empower it to handle large pools between 30,000 and 40,000 gallons.
The high-flow manual air-relief valve of this filter simplifies its maintenance and backwashing, though it does not come with a backwash valve. The system might be heavier than other models—weighing 84 pounds—which can make its installation a bit challenging.
3. Hayward 30” ProSeries Sand Filter (S310T2)
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The Hayward S310T2 ProSeries 30” Top-Mount Pool Sand Filter is a unique filtration system for in-ground pools. It is equipped with an Integral Top Diffuser that distributes water evenly over the sand media. Also, its precise self-cleaning 360° slotted laterals enable balanced flow and backwashing.
The filter’s 7-position VariFlo control valve delivers maximum flow at lower pressure drops. Its corrosion-proof filter tank is constructed from durable, colorfast polymeric material to deliver dependable performance in all weather conditions.
The large pressure sand/water drain of the filter simplifies immediate winterizing or servicing. Despite all the benefits, the time-consuming backwashing process and heavy form factor of this Hayward filter are things you need to be aware of.
Final Words
Picking the right pool filter guarantees the cleanliness and purity of your pool water. This way, you’ll need minimal maintenance, even if you go with a budget-friendly pool filter.
All pool filters we discussed today come with unique advantages that make them suitable for various needs and expectations. Regardless of your budget, the right pool filter for your needs is the one that balances performance, durability, and ease of use.
