Pump to filter ratio

[mrs.rainbow]

Does anyone have thoughts on size of sand filter in relation to gallons? I just ordered a new filter, and replaced with same size I was using, although the specs say I need a larger one. I have a 1.5 hp pump and a 16 inch filter( 100 lbs sand) and my pool runs right around 20,000 gallons. It did fine for 10 years but recently sprung a huge leak. I appreciate anyone's thoughts on this.

[Watermom]

Your filter is too small for that pump. is it too late to take it back and get something else?

[mrs.rainbow]

Hi Watermom,
I sent the 16 inch back and went with the 18 inch sand filter by Hayward, 150 pounds sand. Do you think this is a better match with my pump? In reading threads I guess over powered pumps are common. It was the system that came with my pool set up, but when I replace the pump, should I go with a 1 hp pump instead? Thaks for your help and stellar advice, I do appreciate you!

[aylad]

I still think that pump will overpower that filter, but some of the equipment guys should be by here shortly that can better answer that question.

I have approx. 25K gallons in my pool, and have a 1 hp pump with a 300# sand filter that works very well in my pool. I would think a 1 hp pump would be more than enough for yours.

[PoolDoc]

I have a 1.5 hp pump and a 16 inch filter( 100 lbs sand) and my pool runs right around 20,000 gallons. It did fine for 10 years

I always try to avoid arguing with success.

If you operated successfully for 10 years with a 16" filter, and now have the same pump, but with an 18" filter . . . it should work better than it did before. And, since it worked to your satisfaction before, it should be fine now.