The frequency of changing your above-ground pool filter will depend on various factors such as the type of filter, pool usage, and water conditions. However, as a general guideline, it is recommended to change your above-ground pool filter every 1 to 2 years.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of the filter can prolong its lifespan, but over time, the filter media may become clogged, reducing its efficiency in capturing debris and contaminants from the water. This can result in poor water clarity and decreased filtration performance, affecting the overall cleanliness of your pool.
To determine if your filter needs changing, you can monitor the filter pressure gauge. Typically, when the pressure rises 8-10 psi above the starting pressure, it indicates that the filter is dirty and needs cleaning or replacement. Additionally, if you notice that the water flow rate has significantly decreased despite cleaning the filter, it may be a sign that a replacement is required.
Factors such as heavy pool usage, large amounts of debris, or poor water conditions (for example, if the pool is frequently exposed to excessive dirt, leaves, or algae) may require more frequent filter changes. It's important to regularly inspect the filter to ensure it is functioning optimally and replace it when necessary to maintain an effectively filtered swimming pool.
Best Above-Ground Pools of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Bestway: Steel Pro MAX 15' X 48" Above Ground Pool Set - 4231 Gallon, Outdoor Family Pool, Corrosion & Puncture Resistant, Includes Filter, Pump, Ladder & Cover
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All ages will enjoy swimming and splashing all summer long in this 15-foot by 48-inch round above-ground pool; Includes a model 58388E 1,000-gallon filter pump, a ladder, and a pool cover
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Built with a steel frame that is held together with FrameLink System to provide remarkable strength and connection
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DuraPlus enhance 3-play PVC liner with an elegant design that provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
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Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
INTEX 26355EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture & Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
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EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind.Age grade: 6+.Age Grading: 6+
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EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
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RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
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SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
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KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26643EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
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REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
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All ages will enjoy swimming in the 24-foot by 12-foot by 52-inch above-ground pool set, including a model 58498E 1,500 GPH sand filter pump, a ChemConnect dispenser, a ladder, and a pool cover
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Steel frame construction increases durability and is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
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TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a reliable support band for additional stability to the pool wall for all summer fun
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Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage with no tools required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
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Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing the product; Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Bestway Power Steel 18' x 9' x 48" Oval Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
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All ages will enjoy swimming all summer long in the 18-foot by 9-foot by 48-inch above-ground pool; Includes a model 58390E 1,500 GPH filter pump, a ladder, and a convenient secure pool cover
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Built with a steel frame that is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
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TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
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Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Funsicle 16ft x 48in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
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LUXURY POOL EXPERIENCE: Ideal for up to 8 people – Perfect for families, socializing & swimming
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SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
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MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
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2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
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CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Funsicle 14ft x 48in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
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STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for 6 to 7 people
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SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
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MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
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2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1000 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
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CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Bestway Hydrium 15 Feet by 48 Inches Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Accessories, Sand Filter Pump & Chemical Dispenser, Gray
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Family-sized 15-foot by 48-inch round pool provides a place for kids and adults to enjoy summer fun
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Ultra-durable galvanized steel wall, top platform, and supports provide superior rust and corrosion resistance
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Embossed, textured woodgrain pattern on outer wall with realistic Prismatic Stone printing on the inner liner; Ultra-Violet coating protects liner from discoloration and cracking
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Can stay assembled all year long without damage for seasonal convenience; Easy, 3-tool DIY setup; Screwdriver, wrench, and knife needed for assembly
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Includes pool, sand filter, skimmer, ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, ChemConnect chemical dispenser
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder
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STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for up to 11 people
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SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
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MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
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2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
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CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
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EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind
-
EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
-
RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
-
SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
-
KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26647EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
-
REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
How frequently should I perform a deep cleaning of my above-ground pool filter system?
The frequency of performing a deep cleaning of your above-ground pool filter system may vary depending on various factors such as pool usage, water quality, and manufacturer's recommendations. However, as a general guideline, you should consider conducting a deep cleaning at least once every swimming season or every six months. Additionally, regular maintenance tasks like backwashing or cleaning the filter cartridge should be performed more frequently (e.g., weekly or as needed) to ensure optimal efficiency and cleanliness of the pool water.
What is the recommended duration for each filter cycle in an above-ground pool?
The recommended duration for each filter cycle in an above-ground pool is typically around 6 to 8 hours. This can vary depending on factors such as the size of the pool, the efficiency of the filtration system, and the water quality. It is important to maintain proper filtration to keep the water clean and clear.
How often should I backwash the filter in my above-ground pool?
The frequency of backwashing the filter in an above-ground pool can vary depending on factors such as the size of the pool, the usage, and the condition of the water. In general, it is recommended to backwash the filter when the pressure gauge on the pool's filtration system indicates an increase in pressure of around 8-10 psi (pounds per square inch) from the normal operating pressure. On average, this could occur every 1-2 weeks, but it may be more or less frequent depending on individual circumstances. Regular monitoring of the pressure gauge and maintaining appropriate water chemistry can help determine the optimal frequency of backwashing for your specific pool.
What is the effect of a clogged filter on the efficiency of an above-ground pool?
A clogged filter in an above-ground pool can significantly reduce the efficiency of the pool system and impact its overall performance. Here are some effects of a clogged filter on pool efficiency:
- Reduced water circulation: A clogged filter restricts the flow of water through the pool system, resulting in poor water circulation. This can lead to stagnant areas in the pool and uneven distribution of chemicals, making it difficult to maintain proper water balance and reducing the effectiveness of any added sanitizers or treatments.
- Poor filtration: The primary function of a pool filter is to remove debris, dirt, and other impurities from the water. A clogged filter hampers its ability to effectively capture and remove these particles, causing them to remain suspended in the water. This leads to cloudy or murky water, making the pool less appealing and potentially unsafe for swimming.
- Increased strain on the pump: A clogged filter creates a higher resistance to water flow, which puts additional strain on the pool pump motor. This increased workload can cause the pump to work harder and consume more electricity. Over time, it can even lead to pump failure or other mechanical issues, requiring costly repairs or replacement.
- Reduced circulation of chemicals: Proper chemical distribution is crucial for maintaining water clarity and preventing the growth of algae, bacteria, and other harmful organisms. A clogged filter prevents efficient circulation of chemicals throughout the pool, resulting in ineffective distribution and potential chemical imbalances. This can lead to water quality issues, including algae growth, bacterial contamination, and an increased risk of waterborne diseases.
- Increased maintenance requirements: When a filter is clogged, the pool owner needs to frequently clean and backwash the filter to restore its function. This can lead to higher maintenance demands and more time spent on pool upkeep. Additionally, regular filter cleaning or replacement can add to the overall cost of pool maintenance.
To avoid these detrimental effects, it is essential to regularly clean and maintain the pool filter according to the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations.
How frequently should I clean the pump impeller and motor when maintaining the filter system in my above-ground pool?
The frequency of cleaning the pump impeller and motor in an above-ground pool filter system will depend on several factors, including the size of the pool, the amount of debris and contaminants present, and the quality of the water. However, a general recommendation is to clean the pump impeller and motor every 2-4 weeks during the pool season. This will help ensure optimal performance and prevent clogging or damage caused by accumulated debris. It's also important to regularly check the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions for your specific filter system for any additional recommendations or considerations.
How often should I run the filter system in my above-ground pool?
The filter system in an above-ground pool should ideally be run for a minimum of 8 to 12 hours per day. This duration can be adjusted based on factors such as the size of the pool, the number of swimmers, and the water conditions. Pool owners may need to run the filter system for longer periods during periods of higher pool usage or if the water becomes cloudy or dirty. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer's guidelines or consult with a professional for specific recommendations based on your pool setup.
