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10 Best Salt Water Filter For Above Ground Pool 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Intex 26367EH 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular XTR Frame Swimming Pool w/Filter Pump - Large Above Ground Backyard Rectangle Pool w/ 45-Inch Deep Water

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,434
Filter Type
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
4962 reviews

Filter Type
The sand filter included is essential, as paper filters are junk and require constant changing.
Durability and Build Quality
The pool is sturdy, affordable, and spacious enough for swimming and fun.

The Intex 26367EH 24' x 12' x 52'' Rectangular XTR Frame Swimming Pool is designed for large above-ground pools, making it a good fit for families looking to enjoy substantial outdoor water activities. The Krystal Clear Sand Filtration System is a standout feature, as it effectively keeps the water clean while reducing the need for chemicals, which is great for maintaining safe swimming conditions. This system, however, does not include a salt chlorine generator, so you might have to manage salt chlorination separately if that's important to you.

The pool's durability is notable, with a high-quality galvanized steel frame and puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC construction. The rust-resistant coating and UV-protected T-Joints add to its longevity, making it a solid investment for long-term use. Assembly is straightforward with the Easy Lock System, eliminating the need for tools or pins, which enhances the user experience. The pool can be ready for water in about an hour, which is convenient.

On the downside, the weight of the pool is quite substantial at 379.1 pounds, so moving it around might require some help. Additionally, while the large capacity of 8403 gallons is ideal for big gatherings, it might be overkill for smaller families or those with limited backyard space. In summary, the Intex 26367EH is a robust and user-friendly option for large above-ground pools but consider the lack of a built-in salt chlorine generator and its substantial weight when making your decision.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,434
Filter Type
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
4962 reviews

Filter Type
The sand filter included is essential, as paper filters are junk and require constant changing.
Durability and Build Quality
The pool is sturdy, affordable, and spacious enough for swimming and fun.
#2

Intex QS500 Krystal Clear Saltwater Chlorine System for Above Ground Pools: Keeps Water Clean and Clear – Reduces Chemical Use – Up to 7000 Gal. Pools

Rating
9.6
Pool Size Compatibility
Salt Chlorine Generator
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
9222 reviews

Pool Size Compatibility
The unit fits perfectly for a 24' round pool and operates without any leakage, ensuring reliable performance.
Salt Chlorine Generator
The system delivers crystal clear water every day, making pool maintenance effortless and enjoyable.
Ease of Maintenance
Setup is straightforward with easy-to-follow instructions, allowing quick installation without hassle.

The Intex QS500 Krystal Clear Saltwater Chlorine System is designed specifically for above ground pools up to 7,000 gallons, making it a good fit for small to medium-sized pools. It uses a salt chlorine generator, which reduces the need for harsh chemicals and helps keep your pool water clean and clear. The system connects easily to your existing pool pump, and adding salt to the water activates the automatic cleaning process. One of its strengths is the intuitive control panel, which simplifies scheduling and maintenance tasks, so you don’t need to be a pool expert to operate it.

The patented HydroAeration Technology helps improve water circulation and clarity, which means fresher, more enjoyable water during swimming. The unit’s build is solid and compact, weighing about 14.6 pounds, making it relatively easy to handle and install. This system is designed for pools no larger than 7,000 gallons, so it might not be suitable if you have a bigger above ground pool. While it reduces chemical use, you still need to monitor salt levels and occasionally clean the system, so some upkeep is required.

Given its popularity and positive customer ratings (4.3 out of 5 stars with over 9,000 reviews), it performs well for typical above ground pool needs. If you want a straightforward, maintenance-friendly saltwater system for a moderately sized above ground pool, the Intex QS500 is a reliable choice.

Rating
9.6
Pool Size Compatibility
Salt Chlorine Generator
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
9222 reviews

Pool Size Compatibility
The unit fits perfectly for a 24' round pool and operates without any leakage, ensuring reliable performance.
Salt Chlorine Generator
The system delivers crystal clear water every day, making pool maintenance effortless and enjoyable.
Ease of Maintenance
Setup is straightforward with easy-to-follow instructions, allowing quick installation without hassle.
#3

Intex Krystal Clear Saltwater System for Above-Ground Pools up to 15,000 Gallons

Rating
9.4
Salt Chlorine Generator
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
9222 reviews

Salt Chlorine Generator
Produces sufficient chlorine for more than two months, eliminating the need for traditional chlorine tablets or liquid.
Ease of Maintenance
Extremely pleased with its performance, this saltwater system keeps the pool clean and clear with minimal maintenance.

The Intex Krystal Clear Saltwater System is designed for above-ground pools up to 15,000 gallons, making it a suitable choice for medium to large pools. This system enhances water cleanliness using saltwater instead of traditional chlorine, which is beneficial for those looking to reduce chemical use in their pool maintenance. The advanced filtering system requires you to connect it to the filter pump and add salt to the pool water, after which the system operates automatically, providing a hassle-free maintenance experience.

The control panel is user-friendly with easy-to-access buttons, making it straightforward to schedule cleaning and maintenance tasks. Additionally, the HydroAeration Technology improves water circulation and clarity, ensuring a fresher swimming environment. However, users should be aware that the system is relatively large (18 x 18 x 18 inches) and weighs around 17 pounds, which might require some effort to install.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Intex Krystal Clear Saltwater System is highly rated by customers, with a 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 7,000 reviews, highlighting its reliability and effectiveness. This product would be particularly beneficial for pool owners seeking an efficient, low-maintenance solution to keep their water clean and clear.

Rating
9.4
Salt Chlorine Generator
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
9222 reviews

Salt Chlorine Generator
Produces sufficient chlorine for more than two months, eliminating the need for traditional chlorine tablets or liquid.
Ease of Maintenance
Extremely pleased with its performance, this saltwater system keeps the pool clean and clear with minimal maintenance.

Buying Guide for the Best Salt Water Filter For Above Ground Pool

Choosing the right salt-water filter for your above-ground pool is crucial to maintaining clean and safe water. A good filter will help you keep your pool free from debris, bacteria, and other contaminants, ensuring a pleasant swimming experience. When selecting a salt-water filter, consider the size of your pool, the type of filter, the ease of maintenance, and the durability of the system. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Filter TypeThe filter type determines how the system cleans the water. Common types include sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth (DE) filters. Sand filters are easy to maintain and cost-effective, making them suitable for medium to large pools. Cartridge filters provide finer filtration and are easier to clean, ideal for smaller pools or those who prefer low maintenance. DE filters offer the best filtration but require more maintenance and are typically used for larger pools. Choose a filter type based on your pool size and your willingness to perform maintenance.
Flow RateThe flow rate indicates how much water the filter can process in a given time, usually measured in gallons per minute (GPM). A higher flow rate means the filter can clean the water more quickly. For small pools, a flow rate of 30-50 GPM is sufficient. Medium pools may require 50-70 GPM, while large pools might need 70-100 GPM or more. Select a flow rate that matches your pool size to ensure efficient filtration without overworking the system.
Pool Size CompatibilityPool size compatibility ensures that the filter can handle the volume of water in your pool. Filters are rated for specific pool sizes, usually in gallons. Small filters are suitable for pools up to 10,000 gallons, medium filters for 10,000-20,000 gallons, and large filters for pools over 20,000 gallons. Choose a filter that matches or exceeds your pool's capacity to ensure effective filtration and avoid overloading the system.
Salt Chlorine GeneratorA salt chlorine generator converts salt into chlorine to sanitize the pool water. This feature is essential for salt-water pools as it reduces the need for manual chlorine addition. Look for a generator that is compatible with your pool size and has adjustable settings to control chlorine levels. Smaller pools may need a generator with a lower output, while larger pools require a higher output. Choose a generator that provides consistent chlorine production to maintain clean and safe water.
Ease of MaintenanceEase of maintenance refers to how simple it is to clean and maintain the filter system. Some filters require frequent backwashing or cartridge replacement, while others need less frequent attention. Sand filters are generally low maintenance, requiring backwashing every few weeks. Cartridge filters need periodic cleaning and replacement every 1-2 years. DE filters require more frequent cleaning and DE powder replacement. Consider your willingness to perform maintenance and choose a filter that fits your lifestyle.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality determine how long the filter system will last and how well it will withstand the elements. Look for filters made from high-quality materials like corrosion-resistant plastics or stainless steel. A durable filter will have a longer lifespan and require fewer repairs. Consider the climate and conditions where your pool is located and choose a filter that can handle those conditions. Investing in a durable filter will save you money and hassle in the long run.

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