Pump/Filter Recommendation

[PoolDoc]

Hi Erick;

Be careful about draining -- AG pool walls can collapse inward, when you do. I wouldn't drain unless you find you need to do so. Even then, you will want to leave 6" or so in the pool.

One option would be to set up a vac head, pole and hose, and start a siphon through the hose, from the vac head to the ground outside your pool. That way, you can vacuum the gook off the bottom, to the ground outside.

Otherwise, what do you want in a pump / filter combo?
+ Lowest first cost?
+ Lowest life cycle cost?
+ Easiest to operate?
+ Clearest water?

And, are there any water use restrictions? What about discharge -- will a couple hundred gallons of dirty backwash water have a place to go if you get a sand filter?

[erickismyname]

I didn't realize I had to be that careful with the liner. The water is pretty nasty so I definitely want to drain some out (the vacuuming method sounds good), but I'll leave at least a foot if not more. I think there is about feet in it right now

From the research that I've done I think the sand filter would be a good fit for me. I have a big enough back yard that is far from neighbors so I shouldn't have to worry about the water discharge.

Being a new home owner funds are a little tight for the pump/filter. I'm looking for the best bang for my buck, and lowest initial cost is my thought. I do understand a cheaper filter would have a shorter life cycle and possibly add a little more work but I am okay with that.

Thanks again for the advice and recommendations!