Trouble finding right pump and sand filter

[mchinn17]

We have a 16x52 Intex Ultra and I want to purchase a bigger pump than it came with. Im looking at a 3/4hp pump with sand filter but the multi-port valve is only a 4 way. How important is it to have a 5 or 6 way multiport valve? And is that hp correct for my pool size?

 

[Texas Splash]

Welcome to TFP! A 3/4 HP should be fine for your pool to circulate water. Often times it's more important to match the pump HP to the filter size so that they compliment each other. If you get a variable speed motor, you can get a strong one and simply adjust the rpm lower as needed. Most sand filters come with a standard multiport valve (MPV), so I'm a bit usure of this 4-way valve you are referring to. What make/model pump/filter are you looking at? Also remember that you don't have to get an Intex pump/filter. You could go with various other makes & models. The only thing about that though is that Intex uses proprietary fittings that are about 1.25" or 40mm in size, where as most other pumps/filters use 1.5" or 2" fittings. So you would have to use some adapters to get them to make-up together.

 

[mchinn17]

Welcome to TFP! A 3/4 HP should be fine for your pool to circulate water. Often times it's more important to match the pump HP to the filter size so that they compliment each other. If you get a variable speed motor, you can get a strong one and simply adjust the rpm lower as needed. Most sand filters come with a standard multiport valve (MPV), so I'm a bit usure of this 4-way valve you are referring to. What make/model pump/filter are you looking at? Also remember that you don't have to get an Intex pump/filter. You could go with various other makes & models. The only thing about that though is that Intex uses proprietary fittings that are about 1.25" or 40mm in size, where as most other pumps/filters use 1.5" or 2" fittings. So you would have to use some adapters to get them to make-up together.

Thank you so much for the reply! Below is the pumps that I have been looking at but can't make a decision on which one to go with. I have a friend who has the second one below and thats what got me looking for another pump because I still have the intex 1500 sand filter. The only thing that has me questioning is the MPV. The one my friend has is a 4 way (backwash, winter, filter, rinse) but the others have all those plus recirculate and waste options on them so I didn't know how important those were to have. Thats why I reached out here for some help

XtremepowerUS​

3,100GPH Swimming Pool 16" Sand Filter 3/4 HP Pool Pump w/ Timer 15,000GAL Above Ground Pool Set​

XtremepowerUS​

13" Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pool Sand Filters Pool w/ 3/4HP 2640GPH Digital/Timer up to 10,000 Gallons​

VEVOR​

3000GPH Sand Filter Pump for Above Ground Pool, 14in Sand Filter Tank, 3/4HP Pool Pump & Strainer Basket, Filters Combo Set with 6-Way Valve​

VEVOR​

Sand Filter Ground 16-inch, 3500 GPH, 1 HP Swimming Pumps System & Filters Combo Set with 6-Way Multi-Port Valve and Strainer Basket, for Domestic and Commercial Pools, White​

 

[Texas Splash]

Recirculate is nice to have on occasion, but not something you will use everyday so it shouldn't be a deal breaker. But I wouldn't go any smaller than a 16" filter. The only other concern I have is that in these ads I can't tell is it's a multi speed motor. It says "singe cycle" so I'm not sure what they are trying to say there. But you want to say away from a single speed motor if you see one. Often times this is easier to do when purchasing a separate pump and filter (not a combo), but I'm sure budget also plays a factor in your decision.

 

[Mdragger88]

Without a waste option you will not have the ability to vac directly to waste & to let excess water out of the pool with the pump you will need to use backwash mode.
This is not a deal breaker since it’s possible to just siphon vac or pump out water another way but it’s something to consider.
I have never needed to use the recirculate function but it can be useful when the pool’s condition is overwhelming the filter and you cannot be there to keep an eye on it & backwash as needed but want to keep the water circulating such as with a swamp situation.
I had the largest intex filter/pump available and it did fine for my 16’ pool.

 

[Floorguy]

Something I posted on another thread, just a thought.... And mine is a 1hp pump, for a 12x24. I am looking to get either a 1 or 1.5 dual speed, for the next upgrade to my system. Anyway here it is

I was running a few different sand filters over the years, as I tweak to find the best option (slightly used deals nearby) The sand filter was ok.... but with a salt pool, it was harder to find a place to backwash that didn't kill the lawn or garden area.

SOOOO I found a smoking deal and I do mean smoking $150 for this over sized cartridge filter (150 sq inch I believe)

Anyway, point being. it does TWICE the job of the sand filter without the risk of blowing sand back in the pool. Plus now when I need to clean the filter, I bought an extra to rotate out. I went 3/4 of a year without cleaning it. Needless to say, I will be an oversized cartridge user from now on.

 

[Rgut3]

We have a 16x52 Intex Ultra and I want to purchase a bigger pump than it came with. Im looking at a 3/4hp pump with sand filter but the multi-port valve is only a 4 way. How important is it to have a 5 or 6 way multiport valve? And is that hp correct for my pool size?

I have an 18x48 Coleman and went with the Intex Krystal Clear SX2800 sand filter pump, works like a charm...very happy with this unit so far...

 

[kellyfair]

Take a look at mine in my signature, I’ve had no problems with it at all.