The 8 Best Pool Filters of 2024 to Maintain a Clean Swimming Pool (2024)

While having a pool is undoubtedly an enjoyable luxury, keeping your pool clean and swimmable is no simple task. A good pool filter is a must for any pool owner, since it’s designed to remove particles such as dirt, dust, and algae providing you with a clear and healthy swimming environment.

Swimming pool professional Dan Dougher of the blog Above-Ground Swimming Pools says, “How well the filter works is based on its micron rating (the particle size that the filter can retain), ease of use/maintenance, and how available parts are when needing repair.”

Three main types of pool filters are available: cartridge, sand, and diatomaceous earth (DE). The type you opt for, however, largely depends on the size of pool you have, as well as your budget. Dougher explains that, aside from in-ground vs. above-ground, your pool type doesn't matter, as all filters work the same way.

What We Researched

To find the best pool filters, we researched filter type, pool type, flow rate, installation and maintenance.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

SALE

Hayward Cartridge Pool Filter at Amazon~~$850~~$649

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Best Budget:

Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump at Amazon$82

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Best Splurge:

Pentair EC-180009 FNS Plus DE Pool Filter at Amazon$1,373

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Best Sand:

Doheny's Sand Filter System at Amazon$250

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Best DE:

Hayward Filter Pump System at Amazon$959

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Best In-Ground:

Hayward W3EC65A Perflex DE Pool Filter at Amazon$999

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Best for Small Pools:

Doheny's Cartridge Filter, 25 sq ft System with 3/4 HP Pump at Amazon$312

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Best for Large Pools:

Swimline Hydrotools Pool Sand Filter With Variable Speed Pump at Amazon$690

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Best Overall

Hayward Cartridge Pool Filter

$649 at Amazon

Why You Should Get It

This filter offers a high flow rate of 120 GPM and is able to keep water clear even when dealing with challenges like heavy plant debris.

Keep in Mind

The pressure gauge could be fragile, though this wasn't a problem during testing.

We chose the Hayward W3C12002 StarClear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter as our top pick for the best pool filter overall. We tested this option and found that it efficiently removed debris and kept water clear even when faced with challenges like heavy plant debris or a particularly dirty pool.

Installation is quick and easy, and since there’s no need for backwashing or sand changes, the filter requires minimal maintenance, making it a convenient choice. The 120-square-foot filtration area, with a 120 GPM flow rate and extra-large cartridge, provides maximum performance.

The single-locking knob design gives you easy access to the filter cartridge for cleaning or replacement. The tank itself is built to last, constructed from durable, glass-reinforced copolymer material that withstands the elements and resists corrosion. It’s also virtually noiseless during operation.

While some users have reported issues with the pressure gauge seeming fragile and easily racked, we didn't encounter any problems during our evaluation. Overall, the Hayward option offers excellent value and high-performance filtration capacity.

Product Details: Dimensions: 36x13.375x13.375 inches | Filter Type: Cartridge | Pool Type: In ground | Recommended Pool Capacity: 27,000 gallons for a 10-hour turnover rate or 21,600 gallons for an 8-hour turnover rate | Flow Rate: 120 GPM

Key Terms to Know

Gallons Per Minute (GPM): Gallons Per Minute (GPM) is used to measure a pool filter's flow rate. and refers to how much water can move through the filter pump per minute.

Best Budget

Intex Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump

$82 at Amazon $143 at Home Depot View on Kohls.com

Why You Should Get It

This features an affordable filter cartridge that’s easy to install, clean, and maintain.

Keep in Mind

It’s not ideal for larger pools as it can only run for eight hours a day.

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t have crystal-clear pool water that’s healthy enough for the whole family to enjoy those sunny days. The Intex 28637EG C1000 Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump is designed for smaller pools as you can only use it for eight hours a day.

For a pool with 6,000 gallons of water or less, this is more than enough time to get plunge-worthy swimming water. Maintenance consists of replacing the cartridge in the filter every couple of weeks, and it’s compatible with both type A and C cartridges. It has a 25-foot power cord and is extremely lightweight at just 6.8 pounds.

If any air gets trapped in the pump, this is easily rectifiable by utilizing the unit’s air release valve. You will, however, need an adaptor if you need a 1.5-inch hose fittings as this model comes with 1.25-inch hoses and screw fittings.

It comes with one replaceable filter cartridge, and an aeration technology inlet fitting—an innovative feature that improves the filtration by making finer particles clump together and fall to the bottom of the pool instead of floating around in your swimming space.

It also increases the negative ions on the surface for even fresher water. Keep in mind, this purchase doesn’t come with a plunger valve or outlet fittings, and partial assembly is required. However, it does come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Product Details: Dimensions: 10.62x10.62x15 inches | Filter Type: Cartridge | Pool Type: Above ground | Recommended Pool Capacity: 6,000 gallons | Flow Rate: 1000 GPH

Best Splurge

Pentair EC-180009 FNS Plus DE Pool Filter

$1,373 at Amazon View on Lesliespool.com

Why You Should Get It

The 60-square-foot filtration area and DE filtration design offer a high level of water clarity and purity.

Keep in Mind

It doesn’t include a backwash valve, though it can connect to one.

If you want exceptional water clarity and filtration, the Pentair EC-180009 FNS Plus DE Pool Filter is our top splurge option. The Pentair DE filter is designed with a fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene tank, which makes it durable and long-lasting.

According to J.R. Shambaugh, sales operations supervisor at Pool Patrol LTD, DE filters are meant to filter the water down to 5 microns, which is much smaller than the 30 microns with sand filters and 15 to 20 microns with cartridge filters. (For reference, one human hair measures around 40 microns in diameter.)

A high-flow manual air-relief valve simplifies backwashing, and while a backwash valve isn't included, the filter easily connects to one. The 60-square-foot filtration area provides top-notch filtration performance, capable of processing 150 GPM. However, at 84 pounds, it’s heavier than other models and may be difficult for a single person to install.

Product Details: Dimensions: 21.5x55 inches | Filter Type: DE | Pool Type: In ground | Recommended Pool Capacity: 30,000 to 40,000 gallons | Flow Rate: 150 GPM

Best Sand

Doheny's Sand Filter System

$250 at Amazon View on Doheny.com

Why You Should Get It

It’s effective at catching larger debris.

Best DE

Hayward Filter Pump System

$819 at Amazon $959 at Lowe's $959 at Home Depot

Why You Should Get It

This is a small, energy efficient, and effective pool filter that removes contaminants of all sizes and doesn’t need backwashing.

Keep in Mind

It’s only for above ground pools.

If you’re looking for a good DE filter for an above-ground pool, the Hayward W3EC40C92S Perflex Diatomaceous Earth Filter Pump System has a 1-horsepower pump that churns water at a flow rate of 40 GPM, and it’s compact and lightweight, since it only has 4 pounds of diatomaceous earth powder.

This filter can remove even the smallest of debris and dust particles to provide you with clean, clear, and healthy swimming pool water. It clears cloudy pool water within 24 hours, and although it has a higher price tag, it’s durable and reliable.

When it comes to maintenance, unlike other pool filters, the Perflex DE doesn’t require any backwashing. You only need to utilize the system’s special feature that activates the tubes in order to get rid of any dirt. Another great thing is that it uses less resistance than other similar models which means it's more energy efficient, too.

In addition, you can use it if you have a saltwater pool. This filter is designed for installation below the water level and gravity-fed water on the side of the intake. There’s no cover for it (it can handle being outdoors perfectly fine), and it comes with the hoses and clamps and practically everything you need for installation.

Product Details: Dimensions: 25.9x16.4x28.9 inches | Filter Type: Diatomaceous earth (DE) | Pool Type: Above ground | Recommended Pool Capacity: 19,000 gallons | Flow Rate: 40 GPM

Best In-Ground

Hayward W3EC65A Perflex DE Pool Filter

$999 at Amazon View on Hayward.com

Why You Should Get It

The patented Flex-Tube design allows for longer intervals between cleanings, and the heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant tank is built to last.

Keep in Mind

The valve may be easily cracked.

We’ve mentioned Hayward a few times in this roundup, and for good reason—it’s a leading manufacturer of high-quality pool equipment. The Hayward W3EC65A Perflex DE Pool Filter is our top pick for in-ground pools.

A patented filter design makes it so you can go longer between cleanings. When it's time for a refresh, the handy bump handle makes it easy to shake loose any trapped dirt. The built-in pressure gauge gives you a clear picture of how the filter's performing and lets you know when it's time for a cleaning.

Its heavy-duty tank is molded from high-strength thermoplastic, so it’s durable and corrosion-resistant, even in harsh outdoor environments. And if that's not enough, Hayward claims it can filter out particles as tiny as two microns on the very first pass. Talk about crystal-clear water!

The only downside? Some users have reported issues with the valve cracking or arriving cracked straight out of the box, so be sure to inspect your filter carefully upon delivery.

Product Details: Dimensions: 31x21x21 inches | Filter Type: DE | Pool Type: In ground | Recommended Pool Capacity: 32,000 gallons | Flow Rate: 67 GPM

Best for Small Pools

Doheny's Cartridge Filter, 25 sq ft System with 3/4 HP Pump

$312 at Amazon $312 at Doheny.com

Why You Should Get It

It comes with a pump and is made from a durable and sturdy weatherproof thermoplastic.

Keep in Mind

It doesn’t come with hoses.

The Doheny's Pool Pro Cartridge Filter has a smaller pump with 0.75 horsepower, and is made with a non-woven material for a maximum flow rate of 73 GPM. It can filter pools up to 12,000 gallons, and comes with a 6-foot power cord, a pressure gauge, release valve, and a 1.5-inch connector.

The filter’s construction is impressively hardy; it's made from a long-lasting and weatherproof plastic. Both the pump and cartridge elements are top-loading with ring-lock lids that seal tightly and prevent them from getting stuck. The filter lid has a pressure gauge and a release valve for releasing accumulated air pressure.

The pump is rated at 115 volts/60 hertz and has CSA (Canadian Standards Association) and ETL (Edison Testing Laboratories) certificates, meaning that its been tested to, and is compliant with, the North American safety standards set out by associations such as ANSI (American National Standards Institute).

The filter and pump are available in different sizes if this is too small for your pool. If you don’t need the pump, you can also purchase the filter only (it doesn’t ship to California, though). The hoses don’t come with the unit, so you’ll have to buy them separately, although you do get a 1.5-inch threaded/quick connector.

Product Details: Dimensions: 25x23x12 inches | Filter Type: Cartridge | Pool Type: Above ground | Recommended Pool Capacity: 12,000 gallons | Flow Rate: 73 GPM

Best for Large Pools

Swimline Hydrotools Pool Sand Filter With Variable Speed Pump

$690 at Amazon $399 at Home Depot $412 at Macy's

Why You Should Get It

Its powerful 1.2-total-horsepower pump efficiently filters up to 4,980 gallons per hour, making it ideal for pools up to 21,000 gallons.

Keep in Mind

The tank may crack over time, so proper care and maintenance is essential.

If you have a larger pool, the HydroTools by Swimline Pool Sand Filter Pump is an option worth considering. Its powerful 1.2-total-horsepower pump efficiently filters up to 4,980 gallons per hour, making it ideal for pools up to 21,000 gallons. You'll spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your crystal-clear water.

The 24-inch sand filter is designed for longevity, with the potential to last for years without replacement. Its 300-pound sand capacity (sand not included) further reduces the frequency of filter changes. Additionally, the pump operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful poolside experience.

This system includes everything you need for installation: the tank, pump, filter base, a versatile seven-way multiport valve, hoses, and fittings. Backed by a one-year manufacturer's warranty, the value provided by the HydroTools system is hard to beat.

While the HydroTools Sand Filter Pump is built for durability, some users have had issues with the tank cracking over time. Proper care and maintenance can help you get the most out of this large-capacity filter.

Product Details: Dimensions: 33.1x23.8x34.6 inches | Filter Type: Sand | Pool Type: In ground | Recommended Pool Capacity: 21,000 | Flow Rate: 83 GPM

The Bottom Line

The Hayward W3C12002 StarClear Plus Cartridge Pool Filter is the best pool filter thanks to its 120-square-foot filtration area, high flow rate, and low-maintenance design. If you’re willing to invest more, the Pentair EC-180009 FNS Plus DE Pool Filter stands out as a premium option, with a 60-square-foot filtration area and a DE filtration design that can remove particles as small as 5 microns.

Our Testing Process

Our testing process involved several key steps. First, we timed the unboxing and setup process, following the manufacturer's instructions or opting for professional installation. Next, we operated the filter, monitoring the pressure gauge and backwashing or cleaning as needed.

For cartridge filters, we cleaned or replaced cartridges according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Throughout the testing period, we maintained regular pool maintenance routines, including cleaning the skimmer and pump baskets, testing water chemistry, and observing the water's clarity.

During testing, we assessed the ease of installation, use, and maintenance for each filter. We also evaluated the effectiveness of debris filtration and overall performance. While most filters performed well initially, we noted any instances of breakage or obsolescence during the testing period.

The 8 Best Pool Filters of 2024 to Maintain a Clean Swimming Pool (14)

What to Know About Pool Filters Before Shopping

Filter Type

There are three main types of pool filters available. While all three types have the same function—namely, to remove contaminants and dirt from water—they each use a different filtration method.

Sand: This type of filter, as the name suggests, uses sand as the filtration method and can catch debris of around 20 to 40 microns. In the 1980s, sand filters were commonly used for in-ground pools, but according to Dougher, have since been almost entirely replaced by cartridge types, at least in hotter climates with longer swim seasons.

Cartridge: Cartridge pool filters are an affordable type that use fibrous cartridges to catch debris. They often cover a greater surface area than sand pool filters, and can filter out particles of just 10 to 15 microns. They are also capable of operating at a lower pressure, thereby proving less strenuous on the pump.

Diatomaceous Earth: DE filters are typically the most expensive, as they can filter out particles of just two to five microns. The filtration method is via diatomaceous earth powder—an extremely porous powder made from fossilized exoskeletons of diatoms (tiny aquatic creatures) that has microscopic cavities that can trap tiny debris. They may have an initially higher cost, but they’re fairly inexpensive to maintain.

When it comes to filter type, Dougher votes for a high-quality cartridge filter. “Their micron rating is excellent; the design is simpler (less repair), they’re not more expensive than other types, and can almost entirely be rejuvenated by replacing the element/cartridge,” he says.

Pool Type

Pool filters are designed for either in-ground or above-ground pools (some are suitable for both types) and this should be clearly stated on the product. Apart from that, the type of pool you have (infinity, ceramic, natural, etc.) doesn't matter when looking for the best pool filter, as all filters work in the same way regardless.

Pool Size

The size of the pool, however, is a major factor in your selection process and should be matched to the pool pump and filter you opt for. To choose the best pool pump and filter, you’ll need to know the size of your pool and how many gallons of water it can hold.

If you divide your pool’s capacity in gallons by the desired turnover rate (eight to 10 hours), you’ll get the minimum flow rate needed. The flow rate, as well as the size of the pool it is suitable for, should be clearly stated on each product.

Flow Rate and Capacity

The flow rate and maximum capacity is dependent on the pump and not the pool filter. In order for a pool filter to adequately clean a pool, the pump must be able to turn over all of the water in eight to 10 hours. “The filter's flow rate and capacity should match the pump's flow rate and capacity,” says Dougher.

Installation and Maintenance

All pool filters typically require the same kind of procedure and time spent, however, they differ in their maintenance needs. To perform your regular maintenance on a cartridge filter, you’ll need to take the top of the canister off, pull out the cartridge element, wash it down with a nozzle on a water hose, then replace it.

“With this, you can clearly see the condition of the filter element and know when there is a restriction, or when it is time to replace it,” Dougher says. “The disadvantage is that this cleaning process takes the longest to do, and sometimes the top of the canister (holding the element) can be hard to take off and replace.”

Sand filters are easier to maintain in that you don't have to take them apart when cleaning. You only have to backwash a sand filter, which entails moving a valve and having water flow through your yard. “The disadvantage with this type of filter is that it takes water from the pool every time it is backwashed, and you’ll also have to deal with water in the yard,” Dougher says.

A DE pool filter is the hardest to maintain as it requires backwashing out the existing powder (a lot like what you would do with a sand type), but then new DE powder has to be added through the skimmer to re-coat the filter.

DE filters also require complete disassembly and cleaning of the filter grids/fingers once every 12 to 18 months. “The powder is also extremely toxic and should not be inhaled, as it can cause damage to the lungs,” says Dougher.

Other Pool Filters We Tested

Jacuzzi JCF425 In-Ground Cartridge Filter

We were impressed by the Jacuzzi JCF425 In-Ground Cartridge Filter and its ability to keep the pool water crystal clear throughout the testing period. It was user-friendly and easy to clean. Our only concern was the quality of the return filter material, which seemed flimsy and potentially not very durable.

Your Questions, Answered

Are sand filters better than cartridge filters?

There are pros and cons to both sand and cartridge filters, but Dougher prefers cartridge filters. “In my opinion, sand filters are not better than cartridge filters, because cartridge types can take out smaller particles in the water,” he says.

“Also, a sand-type filter is considered a ‘closed’-type filter, which means that you don't take it apart. With this, you can never really tell the status of the sand in the filter, which can be partially clogged or caked up,” he says. “A cartridge-type filter has an element that is taken out and cleaned. With that, you can clearly see the status of the filter.”

What is the easiest pool filter to maintain?

One of the advantages of a sand filter is the fact that it’s the easiest to maintain. “You don't have to take anything apart when cleaning,” says Dougher. “You only have to backwash it. A cartridge type requires a bit of disassembly and cleaning before you replace it, which makes it more time-consuming, and you need to know how to put it back together.”

What is the life expectancy of a pool filter?

The life expectancy of the average medium-quality pool pump is more than 10 years. However, your filter might need to be changed more often than that.

Cartridge filters will last more than 10 years, but the element in the cartridge tank will need replacing every two to five years. DE filters also usually last more than 10 years, but will need to be taken apart and completely cleaned about once every 18 months.

Sand-type filters will also last more than 10 years, and although some people decide to change out the sand every five years or so, Dougher says it doesn’t ever need to be replaced.

The sand may get caked up inside, however, so it will need to be manually broken up so it can be fully functional again.

Who We Are

This article was written by Kat de Naoum, who has more than 10 years of commerce writing experience. She is also the commerce editor-at-large at Thomas-Xometry, the leading U.S. online platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing. For this article, de Naoum reviewed multiple pool filters, researching factors such as each pool filter's type, dimensions, flow rate, installation, and maintenance requirements. She also spoke to Above-Ground Swimming Pools’ “know-it-all” Dan Dougher.

Tabitha Britt updated the article. She has more than 14 years of experience covering a variety of topics, including health, wellness, and outdoor recreation. She reviewed multiple pool filters and researched the latest models on the market.