Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Types of Pool Filters

Basic operation is similar for different types of pool filter systems. A pool filter pump draws water from the pool and pushes it through filter media or material to remove debris and other particles. The filtered water is then returned to the pool. Depending on the type of pool filter, the debris can be flushed from the system or rinsed from the filter. There are three types of swimming pool filters: sand filters, cartridge filters and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters.

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Sand Filters

A sand filter tank and valve assembly connected to a pool filter pump by a hose and set on a base.

A sand filter uses a traditional means of keeping pool water clear. Water runs through pool filter sand, which traps particles as small as 20 to 40 microns.

Sand filters:

Tend to be the most economical option
Often require less space than other filter types
Work with most home pool systems
Require a specific type of filter sand
Require backwashing about once a week to remove the debris trapped in the sand
Can operate for three to five years before the filter sand needs to be changed

Cartridge Filters

A gray cartridge pool filter and filter pump.

A pool cartridge filter system forces water through a spun-polyester cartridge to keep the water clear. The material is pleated to create more surface area. Cartridge filters can capture particles down to the 10- to 15-micron range.

These filters:

Don’t require backwashing
Use less water than other filters
Require removing and rinsing the cartridge(s) two to three times a year (more if the filter uses only a single cartridge), and also require a more thorough cleaning once or twice each year
Can operate three to five years before needing a cartridge replacement

DE Filters

A diatomaceous earth (DE) filter cleans pool water by running it through a grid coated with DE — a very fine powder composed of the fossilized shells of microscopic organisms.

DE filters:

Keep pool water clearer than cartridge and sand filters, collecting particles as small as 8 microns in size
Are more readily available for in-ground than above-ground pools
Have higher-maintenance needs than other types
Require regular backwashing to remove debris from the filter as well as replenishment of the DE powder lost in the backwashing process
May need a separation tank to remove the DE from the backwash water before discharging the water

Caution

DE should not be inhaled. Wear an appropriate respirator/safety mask as well as eye protection and work gloves when working with the material. Your area may have regulations around disposal of DE.

Choosing a Pool Filter Location

Plan the location for your pool filter system carefully — once you have it set up, it'll be difficult to move. Start by checking for local codes and homeowners association regulations that may apply. Here are some additional factors to keep in mind:

The system needs a level, rigid surface.
Local codes may specify electrical requirements, but in general you need access to an outdoor grounding-type electrical receptacle with a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). The receptacle should be at least 6 feet from the pool and within reach of the pump cord. Don’t use an extension cord.
Follow any codes that govern placement of the pump in relation to the pool.
The location should allow you easy access for filter system maintenance.
The pump needs good air circulation to help keep the motor cool and needs protection from excess moisture and flooding.
A straight hose or pipe running directly from the filter system to the pool works best.
For sand and DE filters, think about where you can pump wastewater when backwashing the system. Local regulations may prohibit wastewater from entering storm drains.
Your manual may have specifications for the height of the pump location in relation to the pool water to allow for priming the pump.

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Caution

Before connecting the pump to power, consult your manual for any steps needed to correctly bond and ground the pump motor. All wiring should be done by a licensed electrical professional according to electrical codes. Some pool filter pumps plug into an outdoor receptacle, while some must be wired into the electrical system.

Installing a Pool Filter

Installation steps vary by the type of filter you’re installing. We’ve provided general steps for installing a sand filter for an above-ground pool, but always follow the instructions for your specific filter, pump and pool.

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Tip

Some above-ground pool kits include a filter pump. For tips on selecting an above-ground pool, see How to Choose an Above-Ground Swimming Pool.

Instructions

If your system includes fittings or adapters for the pump ports, wrap the threads of the fittings with plumbers tape and attach them to the correct ports. Attach the included hoses. There may be hose clamps you secure with a screwdriver or a screwdriver and wrench. Or there may be hose nuts that let you hand-tighten the hoses onto the fittings.

If you’re using PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe rather than hoses, cut the pipe to length with a hack saw and assemble using primer and PVC adhesive. It’s a good idea to cut the pipe over the tarp so you can collect and dispose of the shavings.

Place the standpipe in the filter tank according to the instructions. There may be laterals you need to attach to the bottom of the standpipe inside the tank, or the laterals may be attached already. If your filter system included a temporary cover to keep sand out of the standpipe, place it over the top of the standpipe. Otherwise, secure a plastic bag over the top of the standpipe with a rubber band or cover it with duct tape.

Make sure the standpipe is positioned correctly — you won’t be able to adjust it after adding the filter sand. Your system may include an air relief tube that you’ll need to carefully hold above the sand as you add it. Note the minimum and maximum levels for sand for your system and add the sand to the correct level according to the filter instructions. Don’t overfill. Too much sand will damage the system. Once you’ve added the correct amount of sand, remove the cover, bag or tape from the standpipe and make sure the sand is spread evenly in the tank. Clean off the lip at the top of the filter tank. Use a garden hose to add water to the filter tank until the level is just below the standpipe opening.

Tip

Depending on your filter, the instructions may tell you to add only a portion of the sand, spread it evenly and then add some water before adding the rest of the sand to the recommended level. Follow the instructions for your system. Make sure the standpipe opening is blocked before adding sand.

Apply O-ring lubricant to the filter valve O-ring and install it on the valve, making sure it’s placed to create a good seal. Check that the ports on the valve (e.g., return, pump and waste) are oriented correctly and slide the valve onto the top of the standpipe. Don’t pull up on the standpipe — you could damage it and allow sand to get into the pool. Secure the valve to the filter tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions using the included clamp. If the pressure gauge isn’t pre-installed, apply plumbers tape to the threads on the device and install it on the valve. If your system included O-rings, gaskets or adapter fittings for the valve, install them as directed, being careful not to overtighten. You may need to apply plumbers tape to the threads of the fittings.

Attach the designated hoses (or PVC pipe):

From the pump suction port to the pool skimmer or pool suction outlet
From the pump discharge port to the pump port on the valve
From the return port on the valve to the inlet fitting on your pool

Make sure the hoses or pipes in the system are supported to reduce stress on the connections.

If you’re using PVC pipe for your filter system, you may also need to connect PVC pipe to the waste port fitting on the valve. If you’re installing a sand or DE filter, you’ll also need to purchase a backwash hose that you’ll attach as needed for pool maintenance.

Some pumps have different discharge ports for different types of filters (sand, DE or cartridge). Check your manual to determine which port is suitable for your filter type. Install the provided cap on the other port.

It’s a good idea to have a means to close off the lines between the pool and filter system to allow you to disconnect the hoses or pipe for maintenance. If you’re installing PVC pipe, also consider adding union fittings to the pump suction line, the pump discharge line and the return line to the pool to allow you to easily disconnect the pump and valve from the pipe. Add short segments of pipe to the adapter fittings to connect the unions.

Tip

If your pool has dual suction outlets, you’ll need to connect the pump suction port to a T-fitting that connects hoses running to the two pool outlets. The fitting and hoses may be included with your pool kit.

Pool Filter Operating Tips

Follow your pump system instructions on how to operate the system correctly and safely. Here are some examples:

Make sure the pump is primed before starting your filter system. Check your owner’s manual for steps specific to your pump. You’ll need a backwash hose connected to the waste port on the filter valve. If you’re not able to get all the air out of the system when priming, check your connections and make sure they’re secure and not leaking.
Always turn the pump off before changing the valve setting. Moving the valve with the pump running will damage the valve.
You’ll need to know the initial pump pressure after installing the filter system. Turn the pump off and set the valve to filter. Turn the pump on and record the PSI (pounds per square inch) reading on the filter pressure gauge. Debris accumulation will cause the pressure to increase, and you’ll use this initial reading with a clear system to determine when debris has accumulated to a point that you need to remove it from the system. Check your manual to find the PSI level that indicates you need to backwash the filter.
Make sure to keep the pool water at the proper level. Operating the filter with the water level too low will damage the pump.
Never block the pool suction. Repair or replace damaged or missing pool suction components or covers before using the pool.

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How to Install a Pool Filter