Sand Filter or Cartridge Filter for Above Ground Pool?

[1Civilengr]

I have a 4700 gallon Intex pool, with the included small (0.18 hp) pump and 10" sand filter. The system is adequate, but barely. I can only run the vacuum on "recirculate", and must backwash a couple times a week. The difference between "clean sand filter, full flow" and "too low flow for heat pump to run" is only about 3 psi.
I'm planning on upgrading the system to add a more powerful pump (0.5 to 0.75 hp) and a larger filter.
My question is whether I should stick with a sand filter, or switch to a cartridge (maybe with a vortex prefilter) for this small system. I didn't realize that filters are a viable option for these small pumps, but my small amount of research indicates there may be advantages over the sand filter.
Any thoughts or experiences on this?
Much appreciated!!

 

[PoolStored]

This applies to ALL pools. Get the biggest of whatever you decide, that you can afford. You might consider getting a SWCG with it...such as the intex...

Amazon.com

Pool Filter Comparison

Your pool's filter is a vital part of your equipment pad. We'll take a look at each type of filter and list the pro's and con's of each.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[1Civilengr]

This applies to ALL pools. Get the biggest of whatever you decide, that you can afford. You might consider getting a SWCG with it...such as the intex...

Amazon.com

Pool Filter Comparison

Your pool's filter is a vital part of your equipment pad. We'll take a look at each type of filter and list the pro's and con's of each.

www.troublefreepool.com

Thanks for the link! As usual, I posted before I spent much time looking at the massive amount of info on this site!! I do have the Intex SWCG, and I'm pleased with it's performance. The "stock" filter and pump are just too anemic for me.

 

[PoolStored]

What size is the stock filter?

 

[PieterS]

Sounds like we have very similar setups. I had the same concern with the barely adequate pump/filter that came with my Intex, so I upgraded to the next size - the 12" sand filter with increased flowrate and has the pre-filter basket. I also updated my returns to a full 1.5" and some rigid PVC tubing. All in all much better flow - but still the 'slow' filtering of the sand pump. Vacuuming is better now - but I still get decreased suction fairly quickly.

IMG_6314.JPG

• PieterS
• Jun 22, 2021

 

[1Civilengr]

What size is the stock filter?

Stock sand filter is 10" (about 35# of so of sand, as I recall).

 

[1Civilengr]

Sounds like we have very similar setups. I had the same concern with the barely adequate pump/filter that came with my Intex, so I upgraded to the next size - the 12" sand filter with increased flowrate and has the pre-filter basket. I also updated my returns to a full 1.5" and some rigid PVC tubing. All in all much better flow - but still the 'slow' filtering of the sand pump. Vacuuming is better now - but I still get decreased suction fairly quickly.

IMG_6314.JPG

• PieterS
• Jun 22, 2021

Thanks for sharing this! I have upgraded to Sch 40 PVC suction lines, but I have to throttle one of the suction lines way back in order for the skimmer to work at all - basically just need more flow!
My current thinking is to go with a 2 speed pump in the 3/4 - 1 HP range) and switch to a filter system. My main concern with the cartridge is how much room above it is required to remove the cartridges, since it will be installed under my deck.
I may actually engineer this bugger (create the pump and system curves so I will know exactly the operating range before I drop the $$ for new components).

 

[duraleigh]

Intex is infamous for providing marginal equipment.

If you are used to sand, I would stay with sand when you upgrade. You won't regret the additional performance you receive with either type.

 

[Newdude]

Intex is infamous for providing marginal equipment

+1

Intex has an amazing price point at the expense of the equipment. Even when people upgrade to the bigger intex equipment, it's still 4X too small.

 

[PieterS]

I may actually engineer this bugger (create the pump and system curves so I will know exactly the operating range before I drop the $$ for new components).

Let us know when you decide and what you end up doing!