How to Change the Sand in a Pool Filter
The logic behind never changing your filter sand is that dirty sand actually filters better than brand new sand., Removing the sand with a shop vacuum will be much easier than scooping the sand out by hand or with a small shovel., After removing the...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: The logic behind never changing your filter sand is that dirty sand actually filters better than brand new sand.
The flip side to this is that after enough time the sand will no longer be able to filter the water well enough. From a manufacturer standpoint it is recommended that you change the sand in your filter every 3-4 years. This will maximize the effectiveness of the filter and help you to maintain clean and clear water. -
Step 2: Removing the sand with a shop vacuum will be much easier than scooping the sand out by hand or with a small shovel.
The sand in an old filter can actually be laden with bacteria so it would be better if you minimize your direct contact with the sand. , This water helps to absorb any impact of the falling sand on the lateral assembly. Many professional installers skip this step but that would not be recommended if this is your first filter sand change. , This sand is between 40-50mm in diameter and is available from most swimming pool supply stores. Do not substitute other types of sand or you will almost certainly have problems with your filter and potentially damage the pool also. , You must be certain to find accurate information about how much sand to use in your filter. Over filling or underselling the filter will at least cause the filter to not function properly, and at worst cause damage to the filter. Filter sand sizes range typically from 100 or 150 lbs all the way up to 600lbs or more for large pools. , It is difficult to get the sand actually into the filter without getting it in the sandpipe so you may like to tape up the standpipe opening to prevent this spilled sand from making it back to the pool through the return lines. It is also very important that the sandpipe is directly in the center of the filter as once you have filled with sand you will not be able to adjust the position of the sandpipe. If not centered you will not be able to get the valve head back on the filter and will need to start all over again. , This is where a skilled hand is helpful as if you overtighten the filter head then you may actually crack the filter body which would require replacement of the entire filter tank
- something you definitely want to avoid. , You should start this process by over filling the pool and then backwashing for as much as 3 to 5 minutes, followed by a 60 second rinse cycle before setting to "filter". -
Step 3: After removing the old sand you will want to add water to the tank before adding new filter sand.
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Step 4: The type of sand that you add to the filter will be #20 silica sand which is specifically produced for filter media.
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Step 5: The amount of sand that you add to the filter will depend on the size of filter that you have.
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Step 6: Be sure not to get any sand into the sandpipe which will be wide open.
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Step 7: Once full you can put the filter head back on being absolutely certain that it is tight enough.
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Step 8: Once back together the first thing you need to do is give the filter a thorough backwash.
Detailed Guide
The flip side to this is that after enough time the sand will no longer be able to filter the water well enough. From a manufacturer standpoint it is recommended that you change the sand in your filter every 3-4 years. This will maximize the effectiveness of the filter and help you to maintain clean and clear water.
The sand in an old filter can actually be laden with bacteria so it would be better if you minimize your direct contact with the sand. , This water helps to absorb any impact of the falling sand on the lateral assembly. Many professional installers skip this step but that would not be recommended if this is your first filter sand change. , This sand is between 40-50mm in diameter and is available from most swimming pool supply stores. Do not substitute other types of sand or you will almost certainly have problems with your filter and potentially damage the pool also. , You must be certain to find accurate information about how much sand to use in your filter. Over filling or underselling the filter will at least cause the filter to not function properly, and at worst cause damage to the filter. Filter sand sizes range typically from 100 or 150 lbs all the way up to 600lbs or more for large pools. , It is difficult to get the sand actually into the filter without getting it in the sandpipe so you may like to tape up the standpipe opening to prevent this spilled sand from making it back to the pool through the return lines. It is also very important that the sandpipe is directly in the center of the filter as once you have filled with sand you will not be able to adjust the position of the sandpipe. If not centered you will not be able to get the valve head back on the filter and will need to start all over again. , This is where a skilled hand is helpful as if you overtighten the filter head then you may actually crack the filter body which would require replacement of the entire filter tank
- something you definitely want to avoid. , You should start this process by over filling the pool and then backwashing for as much as 3 to 5 minutes, followed by a 60 second rinse cycle before setting to "filter".
About the Author
Dorothy Taylor
Specializes in breaking down complex organization topics into simple steps.
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