O.k. so it's better to add the DE to the filter than in the skimmer with the sock. Thankyou. I am really disappointed I was sold a small filter with a 1 1/2 HP pump. This is my second summer with this pool. And couldn't clear my water this secound summer so I drained and refilled. I'm thinking it's cause of this combination. Does the DE slow down the flow in the sand? Can I get by with using the DE with this combination? I'm thinking not. Or in your opinion should I get a bigger filter or smaller pump with this size pool? I got this info. off the filter-Max. Pressure Drop 15.2 PSI-Rated Pressure 50 PSI-Rated Flow 60 GPM. And Flow Rate 30-40 gpm. Got this info. off pump-RPM-3450, HZ60. That's the only info. off pump I can understand that might be of some use. Do you think it's fair to ask the Co. I bought pool from to replace either or with a more proper size? Could the 1 1/2 HP pump be pushing the water through the sand so fast that's it's wearing out the sand that fast. You know like how streams will smooth out rocks from the water flowing over them. My brother told me to bump the sand but that didn't help clear the water. I know channeling is bad. If I take off the top to the filter can I see if the sand is channeling? I know it's alot of questions. But I do extremely appricate your opinions. Thankyou and tks for the welcome also! Oh by the way I had to buy a 25lb bag of DE cause that's all I seen in the pool section HD had. LOL.