Brand New Pool Owner- Is my pump/filter even working? Need HELP!

[rleague14]

Hello,

We moved into a new house and there was an above ground pool that has clearly been neglected for awhile...i'm having trouble getting the pool clean. My filter/pump system appears to be working, but I've been battling and battling attempting to get this pool clear and clean. I've done the pool calculator and attempted to use all the proper chemicals. The water will randomly clear up completely, but the bottom is full of dirt/sticks/leaves, etc. The minute I brush all of that up and add cleaning chemicals it gets foggy again. I added new sand to my sand filter, I've done all the recommended things from pool 101 guides. I'm uncertain if my filter system is even working. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

[Denniswiseman]

Use a net to scoop up all the large debris
Try vacuuming to waste so that you miss the filter (keeping it topped up)
Backwash frequently, if dirty water comes out the filter is working
When you get it reasonable, add some DE to your filter which will make it more efficient
What are your numbers
FC:
TC:
pH:
TA:
CH:
CYA:
Pool chemicals: