Question about Pump/Sand Filter Sizing

[PoolDoc]

Sorry, for some reason I was thinking the motor was what would change the flow rate, but now I understand its not the motor but the impeller design. I'd have to swap the whole pump assembly including the motor.

Actually, if you are handy, all you have to do is change the impeller and the seal, and MAYBE the diffuser. You do NOT have to change the motor. You can run a big motor with a small impeller, and get almost the same electrical efficiency you would with a smaller motor. (Big impeller + small motor = SMOKE & FIRE!)

[NTL1991]

Interesting.

I don't have valves or anything on the supply and return tubing, so I'd have to drain off the water above the skimmer which isn't something I want to do at the moment. When I'm in the process of winterizing the pool, (which may be coming very soon, depending on my patience), I'll tackle the pump issue. I think I'd rather just swap the pump assemblies whole.

What is your opinion on hard-piping the pump and filter? Would that increase my flow rate, exacerbating the problem? I like the neat appearance, and the ease of adding valves and accessory items to the pool. Are there any good links here on proper piping layouts when hard-piping above ground pools? I'd imagine winterizing would be the prime concern with a hard-piped system.

Thanks,
Nick

[PoolDoc]

Hard PVC is not going to dramatically affect flow rates compared to same-size flex. I'm not sure about the issues of attaching rigid pipe to an AG pool wall, but I'd won't be really careful about that. You DEFINITELY do NOT want to create a stress point in the wall that way.