Pool Pump and Filter Systems

A pool pump and filter system, also referred to as a skid pack, is a combination unit designed for above ground pools. These pool pump and filter systems are usually attached to a single base and are much more economical than an individual pump and filter. They also make choosing a pump and filter much easier as the manufacturer has already properly matched them. With a skid pack, all you really need to do is select the proper horsepower and the filter will already be matched to it.

Sizing the Pump
The size (or horsepower) of the pump needed for an above ground pool can be determined by the following general rule:

• Up to 24 Ft. Round = 1 HP pump
• Over 24 Ft. Round = 1 ½ HP pump

Many pool owners tend to think the more horsepower the better. Actually what's best is to get the proper horsepower for your pool. If the pump is oversized, you will simply use more energy to run at a higher horsepower. For above ground pool pumps, most manufacturers do not go higher than 1.5 HP because it is unnecessary.

	Pump / Filter Selector Go through our step by step process and choose the right pump and filter system for your Above Ground Pool. click here to start our guide

Can I Use a Skid Pack for an In-ground Pool?
The simple answer is no. Manufacturers make a distinction between above ground and in-ground pool pumps due the difference in equipment location. For an above ground pool, the pump is typically lower than the water level of the pool and gravity draws water to the pump. Also, above ground pools usually have short lengths of plumbing and few pieces of equipment connected to them. Therefore, they create less resistance to flow and operate under low pressure. Above ground pool pumps are designed to work with these characteristics. They are low head pumps while in-ground pools require medium or high head pumps because their equipment is usually located at or above the water level. A skid pack will not provide enough force for circulating an in-ground pool.

Choosing a Filter
There are three types of pool filters: sand, cartridge, and D.E.

Sand Filters
The oldest and most common method of filtration is sand. Sand filters use special filter sand, normally .45 to .55 mm (also known as pool-grade #20 silica sand), which you can usually find at home improvement stores like Home Depot. This sand has sharp edges that serve to separate particles, allowing filtration to take place. Sand filters are the least expensive of the three filter types which make them very popular however they only filter particles 20 to 40 microns in size. This means that particles smaller than 20 microns are not filtered by sand. Sand filters definitely provide adequate filtration but the other two types offer better sanitization. For maintenance, sand filters must be backwashed periodically.

Cartridge Filters
Cartridge filtration has been available for a relatively long time, and recently has begun to enjoy rapid growth and acceptance. This type of filter holds one or multiple cartridges inside the filter tank. These cartridges are pleated, with a paper-like look and feel. The actual material is usually comprised of polyester fibers. The pleats increase the filtration surface area and you will see cartridge filters rated by square footage. This refers to the total area provided by all of the pleats in the cartridge.

When water passes through a cartridge filter, debris catches on the surface of the cartridge element. When clean, the cartridge will trap larger particles, with finer particles being filtered out as the pores become clogged by the larger debris. Cartridge filters will trap particles 10 to 20 microns in size. The cartridge element can be removed and cleaned by pressure washing inside and out with a garden hose. This easy maintenance is the most popular feature of cartridge filters. The disadvantage is that the replacement of cartridges is more expensive than sand or D.E. Generic versions of the original manufacturers' cartridges are available for many models and will save you some money.

As the cartridge collects particles from the water passing through, the build-up of debris and dirt will cause the flow of water to decrease. In turn, the gauge pressure will rise. When the pressure rises 7-10 psi above the starting pressure, or when flow decreases below desired rate, it is time to clean or replace the filter cartridges. If cleaned regularly, the cartridges should last one to two pool seasons depending on pool usage.

D.E. Filters
Many pool professionals consider filtration by diatomaceous earth (also known as D.E.) to be the finest because it is capable of removing smaller particles than either sand or cartridge. D.E. is a powder comprised of the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. The individual grains of powder have microscopic openings which look like tiny sponges when magnified. Water can pass through these openings but particles as small as 1 to 3 microns are trapped during the first pass through the media.

All D.E. filters have internal elements called grids that are coated with D.E. powder. It is this “filter cake” that strains dirt, dust, algae and some forms of bacteria from the water. Like sand filters, when a D.E. filter becomes dirty, it is cleaned either by backwashing the clogged D.E. to the “waste” line or regenerating and draining. To restore filtration, a fresh “charge” of D.E. is added to the filter. D.E. powder is fairly inexpensive so the main drawback to this type of filter is the maintenance.

We recommend thoroughly cleaning the D.E. grid elements at least once a year. Remove the grids according to the instructions in your owner's manual and hose them off with a forceful stream of water from a garden hose. Fill a large plastic container with warm water and add about a 1/2 cup of automatic dishwasher detergent. Soak the grids in this solution for about 3 - 4 hours. After soaking, rinse off the elements again before replacing them inside the filter.

To wrap it up, sand filters are the most economical option but require periodic backwashing. Cartridge and D.E. filters are more expensive than sand but offer better filtration. Of these two, the cartridge will be the easiest to maintain but more costly when it comes to replacing the cartridges.

Pool Pump and Filter System Components
Besides the pump and filter, skid packs usually include a parts package with flexible hose sections (also called flex pipe), one to go from the pump to the skimmer and one to connect the return line to the filter. Hose adaptors, clamps and a union connection are generally included but it is a good idea to verify this with the manufacturer. On our web site, we have many owners' manuals available which almost always have a parts list and diagram.

Some of these pump/filter systems will have a twist lock cord which features a locking plug. This type of plug is common on larger appliances such as clothes driers and refrigerators. It is basically a more heavy-duty plug and cord which uses a different receptacle than a standard household outlet. If you have a twist lock receptacle then you would need to purchase a pump with a twist lock cord.

Installing a Pump/Filter System
You will need to closely follow the specific instructions in the owners' manual for your particular pump and filter system. Below the basic steps are outlined to give you an outline of what to expect.

Place the unit on firm, level ground that has good drainage and will not flood when it rains. Position the filter so that it may drain by gravity with the tank easily accessible to the internals, pressure gauge, and air relief valve.

Installation of union connections at the suction and outlet ports is recommended so that the filter system will be easy to disconnect for service or for moving indoors during the winter months. Use Teflon tape to seal threaded connections on molded plastic components.

Attach the hose connector fittings to the pump suction and outlet ports, tightening fittings only enough to prevent leakage. Use care especially when using Teflon tape which reduces friction; over-tightening fittings may cause damage. If leaks occur, remove connector, clean off old Teflon tape, rewrap with one to two additional layers of Teflon tape, and re-install connector.

Use the flexible pipe with hose adapter fittings and hose clamps that were included with the pump/filter system. You can also use rigid PVC if desired but be sure to install union connectors for easy servicing. If you glue the PVC, you may have to cut the pipe and re-plumb if repair or replacement is necessary down the road. Connect the pool suction plumbing between the skimmer and the pump. Connect the pool return plumbing to the outlet port of the filter body.

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