PENTAIR

Sand Dollar® SD80 Top Mount

SKU: EC-145333

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Pool Filter Size Guide

Choosing the correct pool filter ensures clear water, proper flow, and longer equipment life. An undersized filter will clog quickly and reduce circulation, while an oversized filter improves filtration and reduces maintenance.

Filter Types Explained

Cartridge Filters

  • No backwashing required
  • Excellent filtration (10-20 microns)
  • Lower water usage
  • Cleaned manually

Best for: Most residential pools, water-conscious owners

Sand Filters

  • Easy to operate
  • Backwash to clean
  • Lower filtration (20-40 microns)

Best for: Simplicity, minimal hands-on maintenance

DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters

  • Finest filtration (2-5 microns)
  • Backwashing + DE recharge required
  • Highest water clarity

Best for: Maximum water clarity, experienced pool owners

Filter Size by Pool Volume

Rule of thumb: Bigger is always better with filters.

Cartridge Filters (Total Square Footage)

Pool Size (Gallons) Cartridge Filter Size
Up to 15,000 100 – 150 sq. ft.
15,000 – 25,000 150 – 300 sq. ft.
25,000 – 35,000 300 – 500 sq. ft.
35,000+ 500+ sq. ft.

✔ Larger cartridges = longer time between cleanings

Sand Filters

Pool Size (Gallons) Sand Filter Size
Up to 15,000 200 lb
15,000 – 25,000 300 lb
25,000 – 35,000 350 lb
35,000+ 500+ lb

DE Filters

Pool Size (Gallons) DE Filter Size
Up to 15,000 24 sq. ft.
15,000 – 25,000 36 sq. ft.
25,000 – 35,000 48 sq. ft.
35,000+ 60 – 72 sq. ft.

Match the Filter to Your Pump

Your filter must handle the maximum flow rate (GPM) of your pump.

Plumbing Size Typical Max Flow
1 1/2″ PVC ~45 GPM
2″ PVC ~65 GPM
2 1/2″ PVC 80+ GPM

⚠️ Running a pump that exceeds the filter’s flow rating can:

  • Damage internal components
  • Reduce filtration efficiency
  • Void manufacturer warranties

Why Oversizing a Filter Is Good

✔ Cleaner water
✔ Lower pressure
✔ Longer time between cleanings/backwashing
✔ Longer filter life
✔ Better compatibility with variable-speed pumps

A larger filter paired with a lower pump speed is the most efficient setup.

Special System Considerations

You may need a larger filter if your pool has:

  • Variable-speed pump running long hours
  • In-floor cleaning system
  • Heavy debris (trees, leaves)
  • Spa spillover
  • High swimmer load

Common Filter Sizing Mistakes

❌ Matching filter size to pump HP only
❌ Choosing the minimum recommended size
❌ Ignoring maximum flow rating
❌ Underestimating debris load

✅ Always size for flow rate and pool volume

Replacing an Existing Filter?

Check the filter label for:

  • Filter type
  • Square footage (cartridge / DE)
  • Tank diameter (sand)
  • Maximum flow rate (GPM)

If you’re unsure, contact us and we’ll help you choose the correct filter.

THERMOPLASTIC TANK WITH CLAMP STYLE MULTIPORT VALVE POOL FILTER

The one-piece Sand Dollar Top Mount Pool Filter feature a clamp style, six-position multiport valve. Special lateral design provides superior flow characteristics and long filter cycles for economical operation.

  • Six-position, top-mounted multiport valve
  • Combination water and sand drain makes servicing and winterizing fast and easy

PRODUCT COMPONENTS

  • Six-function, multi-port valve for easy control of all filter functions
  • One-piece thermoplastic tank for strength and corrosion resistance
  • Combination water and sand drain for easy service and winterizing

Additional information

Weight 76.00 lbs
Dimensions 27.00 × 27.00 × 47.00 in
Max Water Flow

Port Size

Filter Area

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