Have a 22" Meteor Sand Filter (Pentair) Love the filter, perfectly clear water all the time - we do use a skimmer sock and a leaf canister with our automatic cleaner, other than that, just empty out the skimmer and the pump pot strainer basket when needed (not often.)

We used to have a sand years ago and tried a cart filter system with our last 18' round, but went back to sand with the new pool last year. No regrets - almost maintc free (minimal backwash at start after opening and at end of season before draining) No "cleaning" required.