How to Hard Plumb an Above Ground Pool Filter (Step-by-Step Guide)

Tired of flimsy hoses that kink, leak, or pop off your above ground pool filter? You’re not alone. Many pool owners quickly realize that flexible hoses—while easy to install—aren’t built for long-term efficiency or aesthetics. How to hard plumb an above ground pool filter is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to improve water flow, reduce maintenance headaches, and give your backyard a cleaner, more professional look. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process—safely, affordably, and with confidence—even if you’ve never touched PVC pipe before.

Why Should You Hard Plumb Your Above Ground Pool Filter?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s understand the “why.” Flexible hoses (often called “flex hoses” or “corrugated hoses”) restrict water flow due to their ribbed interior and smaller diameter. According to a study by the National Swimming Pool Foundation, plumbing restrictions can reduce pump efficiency by up to 20%, leading to longer run times, higher electricity bills, and increased wear on your equipment.

Hard plumbing with rigid PVC pipes offers:

• Smoother water flow (larger internal diameter, no kinks)
• Fewer leaks (once properly glued, PVC joints are watertight)
• Long-term durability (PVC lasts 10–20 years vs. 1–3 for flex hoses)
• A polished backyard appearance

As Mark Thompson, a certified pool technician with 18 years of experience, puts it: “Hard plumbing isn’t just cosmetic—it’s one of the most cost-effective performance upgrades for any above ground pool owner.”

What Tools & Materials Do You Need?

Gather these before you start:

Materials:

• Schedule 40 PVC pipe (typically 1.5” diameter—check your pump/filter ports)
• PVC primer & cement (use a high-quality brand like Oatey)
• PVC elbows, couplings, and adapters (match your pump and filter inlet/outlet size)
• Pipe cutter or hacksaw
• Measuring tape
• Marker
• Teflon tape (for any threaded fittings)

Optional but helpful:

• Pipe deburring tool
• Clamps or brackets to secure pipes to the pool wall
• Level

💡 Pro Tip: Always dry-fit all pieces before gluing. PVC cement sets in 15–30 seconds, so there’s no room for error once you commit!

Step-by-Step: How to Hard Plumb an Above Ground Pool Filter

Step 1: Turn Off & Drain the System

• Shut off the pump at the circuit breaker for safety.
• Drain water from the pump and filter housing (most have a drain plug at the bottom).
• Disconnect existing flex hoses.

Step 2: Measure & Dry-Fit Your Layout

• Measure the distance from the pump outlet to the filter inlet (and return).
• Account for any bends or offsets—use 45° or 90° elbows as needed.
• Lay the pieces on the ground and test the fit. Ensure there’s no tension when connected.

⚠️ Warning: Never force PVC joints. Misalignment causes stress cracks over time.

Step 3: Cut & Prepare the Pipes

• Use a pipe cutter for clean, square cuts.
• Deburr the inside and outside edges to ensure smooth water flow and proper sealing.
• Dry-fit again after cutting.

Step 4: Apply Primer & Cement

1. Apply purple PVC primer to both the pipe end and inside of the fitting.
2. Immediately follow with PVC cement, using a generous but controlled coat.
3. Insert the pipe into the fitting with a ¼ turn to spread the glue evenly.
4. Hold for 30 seconds to prevent push-out.

📌 Note: Work in a well-ventilated area. PVC cement fumes are strong and flammable.

Step 5: Secure the Assembly

• Use pipe clamps or brackets to attach the plumbing to the pool’s support legs or a nearby structure.
• Avoid letting pipes hang freely—they can stress the pump housing over time.
• Ensure the pump remains level to prevent seal damage.

Step 6: Pressure Test & Refill

• Reconnect power and run the system for 2 minutes.
• Check all joints for leaks (even tiny drips mean a failed bond).
• If you spot a leak, turn off immediately, let dry, and re-glue that section.

Once leak-free, refill your pool to the proper level (mid-skimmer) and resume normal operation.

Hard Plumbing vs. Flex Hoses: What’s Better?

While flex hoses win on initial ease, hard plumbing wins on performance, longevity, and value. Over 5 years, most homeowners save money by avoiding repeated hose replacements and reduced energy use.

For more on PVC materials and standards, see the PVC Wikipedia entry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the dry-fit → Leads to misaligned or stressed joints.
2. Using too little cement → Creates weak seals that leak under pressure.
3. Ignoring pipe support → Causes sagging and strain on pump ports.
4. Gluing in cold weather (<40°F / 4°C) → PVC cement won’t cure properly.
5. Mixing pipe sizes → Creates flow bottlenecks and turbulence.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I hard plumb an Intex or Bestway pool?

A: Yes! While these pools often come with flex hoses, you can hard plumb them using PVC adapters that thread onto their pump outlets (usually 1.25” or 1.5”). Just ensure your pump can handle the slight added backpressure—most modern models can.

Q2: Do I need a union fitting?

A: Highly recommended. Install a union between the pump and first pipe section. This lets you disconnect the plumbing easily for pump servicing or winterizing—without cutting pipes.

Q3: How long should I wait before turning on the pump after gluing?

A: Most PVC cements cure enough for low-pressure testing in 15–30 minutes, but for full strength, wait at least 2 hours (or follow manufacturer instructions). In humid or cold conditions, wait 4–6 hours.

Q4: Is hard plumbing worth it for a temporary pool?

A: If you plan to keep the pool for more than 2 seasons, yes. The improved flow and reliability pay off quickly. Even seasonal users benefit from fewer mid-summer hose failures.

Q5: Can I use ABS instead of PVC?

A: Not recommended. PVC is the industry standard for pool plumbing due to its chlorine resistance and pressure rating. ABS degrades faster when exposed to sunlight and pool chemicals.

Q6: What if my pump is far from the filter?

A: Keep pipe runs as short and straight as possible. Every 90° elbow adds resistance equivalent to ~2–3 feet of pipe. Use 45° bends when you can, and avoid unnecessary length.

Conclusion

Learning how to hard plumb an above ground pool filter is a game-changer for any pool owner who values efficiency, reliability, and a tidy backyard. With just $50 in materials and a few hours of work, you’ll enjoy smoother filtration, lower energy bills, and fewer weekend repair surprises.

You’ve got the steps, the tips, and the why. Now it’s time to grab your PVC cutter and make that upgrade!

Found this guide helpful? Share it with a fellow pool owner on Facebook, Pinterest, or Reddit—they’ll thank you later! 💦🔧