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The 7 best sand filter systems 2024?

by Laura

sand filter system
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Many people are probably aware that sand has excellent filtering properties. This property is used in a sand filter system for effective pool cleaning.

Environmentally friendly and thorough:

Sand filter pumps keep your home pool clean reliably and efficiently. They are particularly environmentally friendly and can replace or reduce the use of chemicals.

Recognize quality:

BeyondSurfing has spent over 23 hours researching and reviewed the best sand filter systems 2024 for you. The following guide will give you all the details you need to make an informed purchase decision.

The best sand filter systems 2024?

In a hurry? Our favorite sand filter system:

Intex Krystal Clear sand filter system for pools up to 36,000 l*
What distinguishes the sand filter pump?

  • Ideal for large pools
  • Integrated timer
  • Lightweight
  • Backwash function
  • Quiet operation
  • Thorough cleaning
  • Durable

Sand filter system Checklist

  • Repair: Manufacturers often offer spare parts for the pump.
  • Maintenance: Customers must bleed the product, clean and descale it a few times a year.
  • Models: There are models with a timer in the set. A pool with a sand filter system often manages without chlorine.
  • Installation: Installation and connection can also be carried out by non-professionals. Most pumps can be put into operation directly. Customers generally have to fill sand filter systems with quartz sand.
  • Volume: The operating mode is usually very quiet.
  • Price: Prices vary between 100 and 200 $.

Also interesting: The most popular pool skimmers 2024.

The top 7 sand filter systems in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. Intex Krystal Clear sand filter system for pools up to 36,000 l

Advantages

  • Ideal for large pools
  • Integrated timer
  • Lightweight
  • Backwash function
  • Quiet operation
  • Thorough cleaning
  • Durable

Disadvantages

  • Not for small pools
  • Upper price level

Summary

This sand filter system for the pool comes from the experienced manufacturer Intex. Assembly is quick and easy thanks to the instructions. If the necessary tools, sealing material and the right adapter are available, most customers need less than an hour.

The pump can backwash, which makes cleaning easier. Carried out regularly, the sand quality and cleanliness level can be improved and maintained. The pump not only works thoroughly, but also quietly.

The power connection is 230 volts and the adapter supplied has a diameter of 38 mm. The pump’s operating time can be precisely scheduled using the timer.

Conclusion

Customers with a large pool and the desire for a timer will get their money’s worth with this product.

The filter system is less suitable for small pools or a smaller budget.

Product details

Size: 59.4 cm x 40 cm x 66.7 cm | Power: 370 watts | Weight: 22 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 91% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Delivery and installation are very fast. The design is modern and smaller than its predecessors, which most customers like. The quality of the water is greatly improved. Operation is very quiet, even though the model is powerful. Almost all reviewers would recommend the product to others. Large pools are cleaned reliably, which many customers would not have expected from such a small pump.

Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 2% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Defective pumps were delivered to two customers. They had to exchange the goods. The timer did not work for one buyer. He also returned the product.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Does the pump suck in the water by itself?
Yes, the pump sucks by itself.
Can the pump be installed 1.5 meters below the edge of the pool in an above-ground pool?
The manufacturer considers 1.5 meters to be the absolute maximum.

2. Bestway Flowclear sand filter system

Advantages

  • TÜV-tested
  • DVD instructions
  • Pre-filter
  • Ideal for small pools
  • Favorable price
  • Quiet operation
  • Practical handle

Disadvantages

  • No timer
  • Not for large pools

Summary

This pool filter system from Bestway is very easy to connect using the enclosed DVD. Installation is no problem even for newcomers to the field.

As soon as the system is connected, only the filter sand needs to be filled into the sand filter tank. The set is then ready for operation. Operation is very quiet and still delivers a solid cleaning result.

Instead of quartz sand, this model can also be filled with Polysphere filter balls. The set also includes a chemical dosing unit that controls the release of the chlorine.

Conclusion

For owners of small pools who want to spend less money, this model is the ideal choice.

Anyone who appreciates the flexibility of timers will have to choose a different product.

Product details

Size: 36 x 36 x 52.5 cm | Capacity: up to 2006 liters per hour | Weight: 8 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 86% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Operation is quiet and the connection is problem-free. The instructions are very clear and easy to understand. The seals are all stable and at this price, hardly any customer wants to complain. The material appears to have good UV resistance. The customer service is very reliable and friendly. Customers like the chemical dispenser.

Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer complains about the lack of a timer. Manual operation is strenuous for regular operation. One customer had a broken head, which was replaced by the manufacturer.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can coarse sand also be used?
Under no circumstances, this will destroy the pump and contaminate the pool.
Can an external timer be used?
Yes, that’s not a problem in theory.

3. Steinbach filter system Classic black

Advantages

  • Particularly reliable
  • For medium-sized pools up to 19,000 l
  • Timer
  • Pre-filter
  • Connection for auxiliary heating
  • Special adapter for Intex
  • Low price
  • Quiet

Disadvantages

  • Assembly instructions missing
  • Seals unstable

Summary

This sand filter pump for the pool lacks assembly instructions, but fortunately there are good YouTube videos on how to set it up. Download instructions are also available on the manufacturer’s website.

Assembly takes less than 30 minutes. Operation is quiet and does not disturb even when swimming. Up to 8,000 liters of water are filtered per hour. The cleaning takes about five hours.

The model can be combined with a heater. The pressure is shown by the attached pressure gauge. The all-black design has a modern look and stands out from the other models.

Conclusion

A reliable sand filter system for medium-sized pools. Customers who prefer a black design will be very happy with this model.

Large or small pools should be equipped with a different pump.

Product details

Size: 53.2 x 44.6 x 32.2 cm | Power: 550 watts | Weight: 9.98 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 89% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

When reviewed, most customers find the pump very good and would buy the model again. The pump lasts for several seasons and can optimally clean small and medium-sized pools. The suction power is strong and delivery is fast. Most customers have been using the pump for several years.

Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A customer complains about leaking sealing rings. He had to help with Teflon tape. Few other buyers have received an incomplete set. They received help from customer service.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the filter sand included in the set?
No, this must be purchased separately.
What does not self-priming mean?
This pump must be lower than the water level so that it can work.

4. Miganeo Dynamic sand filter system

Advantages

  • Favorable price
  • 5 colors available
  • Timer included
  • Heating connection
  • Pre-sieve
  • Compatible with filterballs
  • Pressure gauge installed
  • Suitable for salt water

Disadvantages

  • Not for large pools
  • Not self-priming

Summary

The special thing about this model is the many different designs. The customer can choose from 5 colors: Blue, black, green or red. This sets the model apart from other products.

Setting up the Miganeo filter system is relatively simple and can also be carried out by non-professionals. Assembly takes less than 60 minutes. Once the sand has been filled in, the system can be put into operation immediately.

Operation is quiet and powerful. The pump works efficiently and thoroughly. Up to 3.8 cubic meters per hour are circulated and a pool with 19,000 liters of water is cleaned within 3 hours.

Conclusion

A colorful product for customers who also attach importance to the appearance of their filter system. Everyone will find something to their taste here.

The pump is not suitable for large pools with a capacity of over 19,000 liters.

Product details

Size: 60 x 70 x 40 cm | Capacity: 3.8 m³ per hour | Weight: 10 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 92 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The set is supplied complete with the necessary connections. Almost all customers are very satisfied with the model. The assembly is simple and there are also suitable YouTube videos as instructions. The filtration is very thorough. Operation is quiet and the pressure gauge works reliably. Emptying the cartridge is easy. In general, customers would buy the product again and recommend it to others.

Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 3% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A customer complains about poor warranty processing. Another had to repair the seal with tape as it quickly became porous.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

How long is the supplied power cable?
The cable in the set has a length of 1.5 m.
Can the pump run continuously?
Theoretically yes, but this is not necessary.

5. VidaXL sand filter system with pump

Advantages

  • Powerful
  • Quiet operation
  • Particularly light
  • Corrosion-resistant filter tank
  • GS-certified
  • Suitable for high temperatures up to 45 degrees
  • Good for small and medium-sized pools

Disadvantages

  • High price
  • No timer

Summary

The VidaXL cover is equipped with a practical handle. The water filter has an output of 400 watts and a powerful pumping capacity of 11,000 liters per hour. The special feature is that it can also be used at high temperatures of 45 degrees.

The flow rate is 7 cubic meters per hour and the device can hold 19 kilograms of filter sand. The seals are strong and UV-resistant. The manufacturer is known for its robust, weatherproof material.

The model is GS-certified and therefore meets the highest safety standards. Operation is powerful but quiet. This sand filter system can be operated on above-ground and permanently installed pools.

Conclusion

Customers looking for a particularly robust pump can rely on the material from this manufacturer.

If you prefer the convenience of a timer, choose a different model.

Product details

Size: 29.8 x 45.8 x 62.1 cm | Capacity: 11,000 liters per hour | Weight: 2 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 92 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

This model is always on offer. Then the price is lower. The connections fit most pools. According to the reviews of some customers, the filter function is very good and the water is crystal clear afterwards. Significantly less chemicals are needed than without a pump and the appliance works quietly. If you miss the timer, you can simply attach an external one.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Few customers find the instructions difficult to understand. In rare cases, buyers report that the suction power has decreased after some time.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Are spare parts available for the pump?
Yes, the clamp on the valve can be purchased as a filter clamping ring from Hornbach, for example.
Can a pre-filter be fitted separately?
No, but pre-filters do not necessarily offer an advantage.

6. Kesser sand filter system with 4-way valve

Advantages

  • Powerful filter
  • Long mains cable
  • Free filter balls
  • Backwash system
  • Suitable for salt water
  • Particularly fast connection
  • Quiet operation

Disadvantages

  • Limited availability
  • No timer

Summary

This sand filter system operates via a 4-way valve. There is a function for backwashing, rinsing, filtering the pool and a rest mode for the winter. The tank can hold 20 kilograms of filter sand and has a pressure indicator.

The pump is powerful and the housing is robust and weatherproof. The maximum flow rate is approx. 10,200 liters per hour. The supplied mains cable has a length of 190 centimeters.

The manufacturer supplies 700 filter balls free of charge. These are recyclable and even more efficient than sand, although the model can of course also be operated with sand. Operating instructions are also included in the set.

Conclusion

Customers looking for a pump with a particularly long power supply unit will find what they are looking for in this set.

If you don’t want to do without a timer, you should opt for a different model.

Product details

Size: N/A | Capacity: 10,200 liters per hour | Weight: 25 kg Filter sand version

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 89% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Due to the long cable, the pump can be easily hidden in a bush if you do not want it to be visible outside the pool. The price is particularly favorable when on offer. Customers are advised to wait until Amazon launches another price special.

The filter function works perfectly and thanks to the instructions, it only takes a few minutes to connect it. The model makes a high-quality impression and is delivered well packaged. Operation is quiet and does not disturb.

Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Some customers note that the filter bowl is smaller than specified. The power is too low to connect a robotic pool cleaner to it. The plastic at the bottom of the pump is porous.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the pump also suitable for salt water?
Yes, operation with salt water is not a problem.
Is the pump quiet during operation?
It is rather quiet, comparable to a fan on hot summer days.

7. deuba sand filter system with pump

Advantages

  • Powerful
  • Quiet operation
  • Large tank volume
  • Good for medium-sized pools
  • Long mains cable
  • TÜV-tested

Disadvantages

  • High price
  • Unreliable customer service

Summary

This sand filter system operates via a 4-way valve. There is a function for backwashing, rinsing, filtering the pool and a rest mode for the winter. The pump material is powerful and robust.

The tank volume of 25 liters is exceptionally large and up to 20 kilograms of filter sand can be filled in. The mains cable of this model is also 190 centimeters long.

The container and pipes are made of plastic, the housing of robust metal. Both are UV-resistant and protected against water jets. It can therefore also withstand high pressure. The product has been tested by TÜV.

Conclusion

Customers who require a long power supply unit and attach importance to a TÜV test will be satisfied with this pump.

Owners of large pools and fans of timers should choose a different product.

Product details

Size: N/A | Capacity: 10 200 liters per hour | Weight: Up to 20 kg sand filling

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 91% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

One customer suggests protecting the pool and filter with a cover. When customers compare their water with the pool before the pump, they are impressed by the cleanliness. Some customers state that the suction power is very high. Thanks to the pump, the use of chemicals is almost unnecessary. The volume during operation is reminiscent of a quiet fan and is not disturbing.

Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A customer complains about leaks in the pump. Some customers complain that the instructions are sometimes difficult to understand and the pictures are very unclear. Customer service was not sufficiently friendly to all customers.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can something other than sand be used?
Yes, this model can be operated with filter balls.
How can I install the pump in an above-ground pool?
There is only one possibility: a suction line must be laid, then the hose can be routed over the edge of the pool.

Bestsellers: The most popular sand filter pumps

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-12-03)

Buy sand filter systems:
How to make the right decision

sand_filter_system_sand_filter_pump

Since we have a sand filter system, I can do without the unhealthy chlorine. So I no longer have a guilty conscience about taking my little daughter into the water with me. It is clean and completely harmless.

Lara-Maria Neumann ★★★★★
(Mother and pool owner from Karslruhe)


A pool only becomes an oasis of calm when it is clean, because nobody wants to swim in dirty water. Not every sand filter pump works optimally and the model must be suitable for your pool. BeyondSurfing’s buying guide provides customers with the knowledge they need to make the best purchase decision.

The advantages and disadvantages of sand filter systems?

  • Ecological
  • Thorough
  • Quiet
  • Easy to install
  • Inexpensive maintenance
  • Expensive purchase
  • Pool must meet certain requirements
  • Difficult to repair

What you need to consider when buying a sand filter system

When looking for the best sand filter system, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

  • Connection
  • Performance
  • Power consumption
  • Matching sand
  • Built-in timer

Pro tip: Some sand filter systems can also be operated with filter balls.

The right connection

Sand filter systems must be connected for operation. As a rule, manufacturers supply hose connections with a device of 32 or 38 millimeters. Customers therefore need to find out which size suits their own pool.

Good to know: If a different hose is to be fitted, this is easily possible with the appropriate adapter.

Performance of the sand filter system

The circulation capacity of a pump is particularly important for large pools. Ideally, the pool water should be completely circulated and filtered at least twice a day. The so-called circulation rate indicates how many liters of water per hour the pump filters.

Where can I find this information?

Most manufacturers state the value in the product description. The higher the performance, the faster and the more water is cleaned by the sand filter system.

Which service is the right one?

Ideally, customers are guided by the size of the pool. Here, too, manufacturers often specify guide values in liters. A high-performance pump is less suitable for a small pool due to its high power consumption. There is no need to use a filter for a paddling pool.

Tip: The information is often given in cubic meters. Two cubic meters (2 m³) correspond to 2,000 liters of water.

Power consumption of sand filter systems

When purchasing a pool filter system, attention should be paid to the power consumption. This saves users operating costs. A pump with an output of 500 watts corresponds to a consumption of 0.5 kW (kilowatts). For one hour of operation, customers pay around 15 cents according to current electricity prices.

The right sand

Sand filter systems are generally filled with quartz sand. This usually has to be purchased separately. The manufacturer’s specifications provide information on which grain size is suitable for the respective model. This must be adhered to at all costs. The required filling quantity is also specified here.

The capacity can vary greatly and ranges from 12 to 15 to 35 kilograms of sand. It is important that a filter system is not too full.

Why? If a sand filter system is too full, it cannot work properly.

Built-in timer

There are models that have a built-in timer. This is particularly practical because it allows fixed operating times to be set. For example, the pump runs automatically while pool owners are at work. At the end of the working day, you will have a clean pool with no pump noise.

Carefree on vacation:

This also ensures optimum water care during your vacation. This prolongs the life of the pool and water. Continuous operation of the pump is not an option due to the high electricity costs and wear and tear.

The correct sand filter cleaning?

If you want to maintain your pool filter system for a long time, you should clean the device several times a year. The frequency varies slightly depending on how calcareous the water is at the respective location.

Simply pour in some descaler and switch the pump on briefly. It is particularly effective if the product is left to work overnight and only rinsed out the next day.

Step-by-step instructions:

  1. Switch off the pump and set the valve to backwash
  2. Open the sealing cap
  3. Switch on the pump and let it run for a few minutes
  4. Switch the valve to rinse
  5. Switch off the pump after approx. 30 seconds and set the valve to filtering

Info: If you make sure that the backwash function is integrated when buying, you can clean more efficiently.

Sand filter system tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?

So far, there is no test winner on the major platforms such as Öko Test and Consumer Reports.

Well-known brands and manufacturers?

The best-known and most popular sand filter system brands and manufacturers include:

  • Intex
  • Bestway
  • Kessler
  • Steinbach

With these manufacturers, customers can rely on a particularly high level of experience. However, unknown brands are not always worse; pay attention to customer reviews and well-founded guides on the subject.

Build your own sand filter pumps?

Skilled craftsmen can also build a sand filter system themselves. The material list for this is as follows:

  • Compressed air tank with tensioning strap
  • 2 threaded inserts, 1.5 inch (3.81 cm)
  • Pressure gauge with plug-in coupling or thread
  • Four-way or six-way valve
  • Circulation pump with power to match the pool
  • Pipes of the correct size, usually 1.5 inches (approx. 3.81 centimeters)
  • Water distributor and filter star
  • Vent valve
  • Quartz sand to match the filter star
  • Various rubbers for the seals

This video shows a somewhat more provisional guide. Not a bad idea for the transition:

Pool Sand Filter Part 1

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about sand filter pumps

Where can I buy a sand filter pump?

Sand filter systems are available to buy in many DIY and garden stores. These are, for example, Obi, Hornbach or Toom. If you are looking for a particularly large selection and would like to have the product conveniently delivered, you will find it on Amazon.

How does a sand filter system work?

This type of pump draws in the pool water and then forces it through a special quartz sand. The clean water is then pumped back into the pool. The sand retains dirt particles or insects. The result is clear and hygienic water.

Which sand filter for which pool?

The performance of the pump must match the size of the pool. The manufacturers indicate how many liters of water the model is suitable for. The optimum fit must be selected, because a pump that is too powerful wastes too much power and a version that is too weak cleans the pool inadequately.

Not all models are compatible with salt water. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer beforehand.

Which sand filter system for a small pool?

A small pool only needs a relatively weak pump. A sand filter pump should be purchased that matches the amount of water in the pool. Simply enter the search term “sand filter X number of liters” at Amazon.

How long should I run the sand filter pump?

A pump does not have to run continuously, but must circulate the water in the pool once a day. If you buy the right model for the amount of water, the instructions will always state how long the pump needs to run to clean the entire amount of water.

How to connect a sand filter system?

There must be a certain distance to the edge of the pool. A stable base is also important. The lawn is not a good location. For example, exposed aggregate concrete slabs or tiles are suitable.

When connecting, it is important that the filter shaft of permanently installed pools cannot fill up with water. For above-ground pools, the pump is located outdoors. If in doubt, suitable hoses and hose clamps can be purchased separately.

The hose diameter and length must be suitable. The pump is initially filled with water. There must be no air trapped inside.

What to do if the sand filter system is not filtering?

As a layman, the following things can be checked:
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  • Is the quartz sand too dirty?
  • Is one of the pipes blocked or is the power supply unit not passing on any current?
  • Is the pump positioned in relation to the tank so that the water cannot be sucked in?
  • If these questions do not help, you should ask at a specialist garden store or contact the manufacturer.

    Conclusion: The most popular sand filter systems reviewed

    Most people who are not experts know little about sand filter systems. However, such an investment should not be made lightly.

    Play it safe:

    BeyondSurfing’s buying guide not only gives you the knowledge you need to become an informed buyer, but also presents the best products of the year. Customers who make well-considered purchases save money in the long term.

    Specialist literature, sources & further links

    You can find more information on this topic here:

    • Building instructions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v86ur2HiOk8
    • Sand filter definition: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandfilter
    • Information about bath water treatment: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Badewasseraufbereitung

    Note: BeyondSurfing is not responsible and is not liable for the content of external websites.

    Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

    *Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

    Laura

    Beach and snorkeling expert
    Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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