Keeping your pool water crystal clear isn’t just about looks. It’s about swimming in something that doesn’t feel like a swamp. A good filter is what separates a refreshing dip from an algae-ridden disaster. The two big options? Sand filters and cartridge filters. 

Sand filters are the tough, no-nonsense kind, handling large debris with ease. Cartridge filters, on the other hand, go after the smaller stuff and cut down on backwashing. Picking the right one makes all the difference: less hassle, cleaner water, and a smoother swim season.

Let's talk specifics. What are the best pool filters? For smaller pools, the Sandman 14" is a solid choice. It’s compact but reliable. If you're working with something bigger, the 18" Blue Torrent brings more power to the table. On the cartridge side, the 120 Sq. Ft. Blue Torrent stands out with an energy-saving pump that can save you some cash in the long run. And if you’re looking for another option, the 90 Sq. Ft. Blue Wave Hydro has its own perks. We’ll break them down and tell you what makes them the best pool filters.

Sand Filter Systems

Sand filters are about as simple as they get. Water goes in, flows down through a bed of sand, and all the dirt and debris get stuck in there. What comes out the bottom? Clean water. No fancy tricks, just physics.

Why do people like them? They’re easy to use and don’t cost a fortune. The downside? They don’t grab the tiniest particles, and every so often, you have to backwash, basically forcing water through in reverse to clean out all the gunk.

Sandman 14" Sand Filter & 1.0 HP Pump System

A solid pick for smaller above-ground pools. It pairs a 14-inch filter with a 1.0 HP pump, which is enough muscle for medium-sized pools. It’s affordable, simple to install, and reliable. You don’t need to be a pool guru to get it running. Hook it up, dump in some sand, and you’re in business. This is the best pool filter for people who just want clear water without a lot of maintenance.

18" Blue Torrent Sand Filter System & 1.0 HP Dual Port Pump

Now, if you’ve got a bigger pool, this is the upgrade. The 18-inch filter can handle more water, and the 1.0 HP dual-port pump improves flow. More water moving through means better filtration. The result? Cleaner water, faster. If your pool’s on the larger side and you want stronger performance, this one is the best pool filter to have.

Cartridge Filter Systems

Cartridge filters work a little differently. Instead of sand, water moves through a pleated cartridge that traps dirt and fine debris, the stuff that a sand filter might let slip through. They filter better and don’t need backwashing, though you have to clean the cartridges regularly, and eventually, they’ll need replacing.

120 Sq. Ft. Blue Torrent Cartridge Filter System & 2-Speed 1.5 HP Energy Saver Pump

This one’s built to handle a lot of water. The 120 sq. ft. cartridge offers plenty of surface area, which means better filtration and less frequent cleaning. The 2-speed 1.5 HP pump is a nice bonus. It lets you run on low speed for everyday filtration and crank it up when you need extra power. That means cleaner water without running up your energy bill. The cartridge itself is made from Reemay material, which is durable and keeps a good flow rate. If you want an efficient system that balances performance with lower costs, this is a solid the best pool filter for you.

90 Sq. Ft. Blue Wave Hydro Cartridge Filter System & 1 HP Pump

This one's the best pool filter for mid-sized pools. The 90 sq. ft. cartridge does a solid job filtering out debris, and the 1 HP pump is enough power for most above-ground setups. Best of all, it’s easy to maintain. Just pull out the cartridge, hose it off, and you’re back in business. If you want something simple that keeps the water clean with minimal effort, this one checks the right boxes.

Filter Selection and Maintenance

Picking the right filter comes down to pool size. A small pool? No need for an oversized filter. A big pool? A tiny filter won’t keep up. And then there's pump horsepower—you gotta match it to the filter. Too weak, and it won’t move enough water. Too strong, and it might damage the filter. Another thing to consider is pool turnover rate. That’s how often the water cycles through the filter each day. You want the whole pool to circulate a few times to keep things clean.

Maintenance Matters

Filters only work if you keep them clean. Check the pressure gauge. When the pressure gets too high, that means the filter’s clogged up. Time to rinse or backwash. And when winter hits? You’ll want to drain the water and store the filter properly to avoid any nasty surprises when you open your pool again.

Other Filter Options & Features

• DE Filters – Use diatomaceous earth for ultra-fine filtration. Great performance, but more work.

• Reemay Cartridges – A durable material that keeps a good flow rate.

• Two-Speed Pumps – Save energy by running on low most of the time, only switching to high when needed—like after a big pool party.

General Filter Upkeep

• Sand filters – Backwash when needed. Replace sand every 3-5 years—it wears out and stops catching dirt as well.

• Cartridge filters – Clean every few weeks, or more if your pool gets a lot of use. Hose them off or soak them in cleaner when they get really dirty. Let them dry before reinstalling.

A Hard Lesson in Bad Pool Choices

Don’t get lazy and buy the cheapest filter you can find. Chances are it will be too small, and your pool will turn into a foggy, chemical-smelling mess. And if you’re pump isn’t strong enough either, you’re going to spend more time cleaning than swimming.

Your Backyard Oasis Awaits

At Pool Nation USA, we’ve got pools for every dream and every backyard. Whether it’s a compact setup for a small space or a sprawling pool for all the neighborhood kids (and kids at heart), our lineup includes the essentials and extras you need to make it happen. Imagine stepping out your back door to a sparkling pool, your perfect escape just steps away, waiting for those warm afternoons and sunny weekends.

So why wait another season? Make your outdoor space as cool as it deserves to be. Dive into the good times and create the backyard oasis you've always wanted.

Shop our full line of pools today!