Tired of endless pool maintenance? The right size sand filter for your above-ground pool can be a game-changer.
In this article, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when choosing a sand filter, ensuring crystal-clear water and more time for relaxation.
You don’t have to worry about pool headaches anymore!
What Size Sand Filter For Above Ground Pool?
To determine the right size sand filter for your above-ground pool, you’ll typically need one with a filter area of at least 1 square foot for every 10,000 gallons of pool water. Pool capacity and shape also influence the specific size required.
Sand filter size chart for above ground pool:
| Pool volume | Filtered Area | Sand Filter size |
|---|---|---|
| 15500 gallons | 1.5 square feet | 1.6 square feet |
| 30000 gallons | 3.0 square feet | 3.1 square feet |
| 35000 gallons | 3.5 square feet | 3.6 square feet |
| 40000 gallons | 4.0 square feet | 4.1 square feet |
| 45000 gallons | 4.5 square feet | 4.6 square feet |
Some Factors To Choose The Right Size Sand Filter
Determine Your Pool Volume
To determine the size of the filter for your pool, you need to know the volume of water it holds.
If you’re unsure of the volume, you can calculate it using simple equations. Most pools are round, rectangular, kidney-shaped, or oval.
Start by measuring the deepest and shallowest ends of the pool to determine the average depth, since most pool bottoms are uneven.
Once you have the volume, you can choose a filter size that will properly handle that volume.
For instance, if the deepest part is 11 feet and the shallowest part is 3 feet, the average depth will be D = (11+3)/2 = 7 feet.
For Rectangular Pools:
Take accurate measurements of the pool’s length and width. After that, determine the volume of the pool by multiplying the figures together.
Pool volume V = L x W x D
If your pool is rectangular in shape, you will need to divide the shape in half in order to calculate each volume separately.
After that, simply add up all of the values to get the total volume.
For Oval Swimming Pools:
Calculate the surface area of the pool by first measuring its radius, which will give you its area.
In order to determine the radius, one must first measure the diameter of the pool while passing through the middle of the pool.
Divide that number by 2, because r equals diameter divided by 2.
Determine the surface area by multiplying the radius by the formula A = r2, which you can find online.
Where A represents the pool’s surface area, equals 3.14, and r indicates the pool’s radius.
Multiplying the pool’s surface area by its average depth (D) yields the formula for calculating the volume of the water in the facility.
Volume = A x D.
For Oval Pools:
Take a measurement of the diameter at its shortest point as well as its longest point. After that, multiply the result by the average water depth.
Volume = Shortest Diameter x Longest Diameter x Average Depth
For Kidney Pools
Take the shortest width measurement and the longest width measurement, then add those two up. Take a length measurement of the pool.
After that, determine the volume by multiplying the figures with the average depth of the object.
The volume of the pool can be calculated as follows: Volume = (shortest width x longest width) x Average Depth x Length of Pool
After determining the size of the pool in cubic feet, the next step is to convert that number to gallons.
This is essential given that the gallon unit is the standard measurement employed by the majority of manufacturers.
Simply multiplying the volume you determined earlier by 7.48 will get you the correct answer for how many gallons are in a cubic foot.
If you are already familiar with the size of your pool, you won’t have to worry about performing these calculations.
Find Out How Much Water Is Flowing!
It is important to note that the majority of pool pump capacities are measured in GPM (gallon per minute).
Because we have now expressed the volume of the pool in terms of gallons, calculating the GPM won’t be as challenging as it was before.
As was mentioned earlier, the typical amount of time required for a full filter cycle is between six and eight hours.
The average time spent in a residential pool is 8. Therefore, we will be on the road for eight hours.
Converting the hours to minutes will allow us to get a better idea of what the actual value of GPM is.
To convert from hours to minutes, we multiply 8 by 60. This gives us the actual time in minutes.
Time = 8 x 60 = 480 minutes.
Divide the total volume of your pool by 480 to get the value for the pump’s capacity.
For instance, if the volume of your pool is 10,000 gallons, the required pump size is 10000 divided by 480, which equals 21 gallons per minute (GPM).
If you intend to use the pool for commercial purposes, you should change the calculation so that it uses 6 hours rather than 8 hours.
Determine The Number Of Gallons That Will Be Filtered In The Next Eight Hours
Your pool water can be cleaned in approximately 8 hours by a pool filter that is in good condition; therefore, you will use this figure to figure out the next step in the process.
First, find out how many gallons are in your pool by dividing that number by eight, and then take that number and divide it by sixty.
Figure 60 represents the number of gallons per minute that need to be pumped in order to complete the task within the allotted time frame of 8 hours.
Set up the additional filter Accessories
The filter needs to be put in place at this point. You should make use of a stable base because this will lessen the amount of vibration.
Make sure that the electrical system is kept under a cover that is impermeable to water.
You will additionally be responsible for the installation of a pressure gauge, a sight glass pipe, an air relief valve, and a backwash hose.
Calculating the Right Size Sand Filter
Determining Pool Water Volume
To figure out your pool’s water volume, you’ll need to consider its shape and size.
Use formulas like Pool Volume = Diameter x Diameter x Depth x 5.9 for round pools, but remember to account for the space between the water level and pool edge (freeboard).
For precision, consider a water meter or bucket test.
Factoring in Flow Rate Requirements
Your pump’s flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), is crucial. High flow rates can damage your filter or pump, while low rates lead to poor filtration.
Check your pump and filter manuals for optimal rates, and use a flow meter or bucket test to measure your actual flow rate.
Considering Filtration Media Capacity
Different filtration media types like silica sand, zeolite, glass, or polyballs require varying amounts.
Smaller, rounder particles pack tightly, needing more media. Larger, irregular particles leave more space.
Refer to manufacturer recommendations for each media type and filter size.
Calculating Filter Size for Optimal Turnover
The filter size determines the turnover rate, which is how long it takes to process all pool water. Aim for a turnover rate of 6 to 10 hours for optimal water quality.
Calculate the filter size by dividing pool volume (in gallons) by flow rate (in GPM) and desired turnover rate (in minutes). Adjust the turnover rate to your preference.
Sample Calculation for a 15-Foot Above Ground Pool
Let’s walk through a sample calculation for a typical 15-foot round pool with a 1 HP pump, a flow rate of 40 GPM, silica sand media, and an 8-hour turnover rate:
Determine pool volume using Pool Volume = Diameter x Diameter x (Depth – Freeboard) x 5.9. Adjust for freeboard.
Pool Volume = 15 x 15 x (4 – 1) x 5.9 = 3,348 gallons
Consider your pump’s flow rate. Pump Flow Rate = 40 GPM
Calculate your filter size for optimal turnover:
Filter Size = Pool Volume / (Flow Rate x Turnover Rate)
Filter Size = 3,348 / (40 x 480) = 0.174 square feet
Based on this calculation, you’d need a sand filter with at least 0.174 square feet of filtering area.
Adjusting for Specific Pool Needs
Remember that your pool may have unique requirements due to factors like sunlight exposure, wind, or heavy usage.
In such cases, you might need a larger filter than calculated to ensure water quality and minimize maintenance.
But avoid going too large, as it can lead to water pressure issues and excessive backwashing, increasing water and chemical usage.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and consider your budget and space limitations when making your final selection.
Tips To Clean Sand Filter
Following are some effective yet simple tips to keep the sand filter in optimum condition to get maximum performance:
Preparing To Backwash
Firstly check the pressure gauge of your sand filter. Power off the pump and if wish to, you can turn off the circuit breaker.
Change the setting on the pool filter valve and place the waste hose.
Backwash The Filter
Keep the pumps running for at least 2 minutes at this time, check the sight glass, and turn back the pump off.
Perform A Final Rinse
Apply the rinse setting and get back to the filter setting. Then check the gauge.
Installing Filter And Other Accessories
To install and keep the filter stable, use a solid base. More importantly, store all the electrical systems under a watertight cover.
You’ll require a backwash hose, sight glass pipe, air relief valve, and pressure gauge.
FAQs about what size sand filter for an above-ground pool
Can You Use A Too Big Sand Filter For A Ground Pool?
You shouldn’t. The reason is that filters don’t have any exact minimum flow rate.
How Often Does It Need To Change The Sand In The Sand Filter?
You will need to change and replace sand in your sand filter eventually even if you maintain and backwash regularly.
Luckily, changing sand 5 to 7 times per year is good enough for a sand filter.
What Is The Best Sand Filter For Above-Ground Pools?
Overall, Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter is the best sand filter for above-ground pools.
It has an appropriate flow rate for the small above ground pool while handling the larger-size pool safely.
This sand filter also keeps the water sparkling clean.
How Much Does Sand For A Pool’s Filter Cost?
Most home improvement and pool stores sell pool filter sand, which costs between $25 and $35 for a 50-pound bag on average.
Final words
Selecting the appropriate size sand filter for your above-ground pool is crucial for maintaining water quality and reducing maintenance hassles.
Make an informed choice based on factors such as pool size and pump capacity to ensure your pool stays clean and clear all season.
