Last yr I was unable to get my pool to filter thru the sand filter at all. We basically kept the pool clean enough to use by using skimmer socks. (those things that fit over the basket in the skimmer).I had to change them out daily. It was a nightmare, the water was clear but never sparkling clean. My pump shoots water thru the return so hard that it hurts to hold your hand there. It sucks water into the skimmer so hard that it has torn the socks before. Wasps would be sucked in and shot back out the return with their bodies parts easily visible. whole abdomens, etc. I put more sand in the filter, even tried the DE powder at one point. Boy that was a nightmare, like to have never got it out of the pool. Anyways, my pump is 10 to 12 yrs old, loud and runs up my electric bill. I have to beat it with a rock sometimes to get it going, otherwise it just hums until it trips the breaker. My husband 4got to unhook it before a freeze this winter so now the "lid" or something is cracked and its shooting out water. Im so ready to get a new pump! (possibly a sand filter too)

SO my question is: What size pump do I need for my pool? Its currently a 1.5hp, 200lb sand filter. pool is 24' round above ground. I see variable speed posted on here a lot.........is that something I should consider?