Intex vs Bestway - Sand Filter Pumps

When you’re running a mid to large‑sized above‑ground pool, a higher‑capacity sand filter pump (1,500–3,000 GPH) can make all the difference in turnover time and water clarity. Below we’ll look at Intex vs Bestway’s sand‑filter offerings in this range, compare their specs, and help you choose the right model for your pool.

How Sand‑Filter Pumps Work

A sand filter traps debris in a bed of specially graded silica sand (or alternative media) as water is forced through under pressure. Clean water returns to the pool, while leaves, dirt, and algae stay lodged in the sand. When flow slows or the pressure gauge rises ~8–10 psi over clean‑start, you backwash—reversing flow through a 6‑port valve to flush out trapped particles.

Why sand?

• Low media cost: 50–85 lb of sand lasts 3–5 years

• High flow: Supports 1,500 - 3,000 GPH turnover

• Simple operation: 6‑position multiport valve

Intex Krystal Clear Sand‑Filter Pumps (1,500 – 3,000 GPH)

Model (SKU)	Flow Rate (GPH)	Sand Capacity (lbs)	Timer Type
26643EG	1,500	18	2‑hour analog
26645EG	2,100	55	24‑hr built‑in
26647EG	2,800	77	24‑hr built‑in
26651EG	3,000	120	24‑hr built‑in

• Pump design: Self‑priming, thermally protected motor

• Valve: 6‑position (Filter, Backwash, Rinse, Recirculate, Waste, Closed)

• Construction: UV‑resistant ABS housing

• Pros: High sand capacity on larger models; integrated timer; widespread parts availability

• Cons: Analog timer limited on 1,500 GPH model; bulkier models require more space

  
  

Bestway Flowclear Sand‑Filter Pumps (1,500 – 3,000 GPH)

Model	Flow Rate (GPH)	Sand Capacity (lbs)	Timer Type
58663E (1500 GPH)	1,500	17	External digital
58515E (2,200 GPH)	2,200	25	External digital
58500 (2,200 / 3,000)	2,200 or 3,000	50	External digital

• Pump design: High‑efficiency motor with GFCI plug

• Valve: 6‑position multiport

• Extras: ChemConnect® dispenser for chlorination on 2,200 GPH model

• Pros: Digital timer for precise scheduling; larger media holds on 3,000 GPH model; slightly lower street price

• Cons: Fewer brick‑and‑mortar parts sources; electronics may need extra weather protection

  
  

Head‑to‑Head Comparison

Feature	Intex (1,500–3,000 GPH)	Bestway (1,500–3,000 GPH)
Flow Options	1,500 / 2,100 / 2,800 / 3,000 GPH	1,500 / 2,200 / 3,000 GPH
Sand Capacity	18 – 120 lbs	17 – 50 lbs
Timer	Analog (1,500 GPH) or built‑in 24 hr	Programmable digital
Valve Positions	6‑way	6‑way
Pump Protection	Thermal cutoff	Thermal cutoff
Ease of Parts	Excellent	Good
Price Range	$220 – $350	$200 – $330
Warranty	90 days	180 days

Installation & Maintenance

1. Base: Level, solid pavers or slab within 10 ft of pool wall.

2. Hoses: Quick‑connect (Intex) or threaded (Bestway)—ensure snug, leak‑free fit.

3. Media Prep: Rinse new sand/glass media before filling; fill to just above laterals.

4. Startup: Backwash 2 min → Rinse 1 min → Filter.

5. Ongoing: Backwash once pressure rises ~8–10 psi; inspect O‑rings & hoses weekly.

6. Winterize: Drain, dry, and store indoors if possible.

   
   

Which Pump Should You Choose?

• Flexibility & fine‑tuning: Bestway's digital timer and multiple GPH tiers give you precise control over runtime and turnover.

• Max media & uptime: Intex’s 2,800 / 3,000 GPH models hold far more sand—longer between backwashes if you’re near heavy debris zones.

• Budget‑minded: Bestway often undercuts Intex by $20–$30 for comparable GPH, especially on the 1,500 / 2,200 GPH units.

• Simplicity & support: Intex’s analog/24‑hr timers and ubiquitous spare parts make servicing easier over multi‑season use.

Pro tip: Aim to turn over your pool volume every 6–8 hours. If your pool is on the larger side (14,000 + gal), lean toward a 2,200–3,000 GPH model. For smaller pools (up to 12,000 gal), a 1,500 GPH pump may suffice - especially if you run it longer each day.

With either brand, a sand filter pump in the 1,500–3,000 GPH range will dramatically cut down maintenance time and chemical usage - giving you more hours enjoying clear, refreshing water.