How to Change Pool Filter Sand

Pool filter sand requires changing every three to four years, depending on the usage and care given to the pool. The correct type of sand is #20 silica sand, which has a grain size of between .45mm-.55mm. Other sands are too fine and slip right through the system, ending up in the pool. Each grain of sand has jagged corners, which enable it to snag particles of dirt and other debris. Over time, the rubbing against each other during the filtering process rounds their corners and they can no longer effectively trap material. This will cause consistent cloudiness or dullness to the pool water that cannot be resolved through chemical additions or cleaning. This persistent condition indicates that it is time to change the sand.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Plastic scoop
• Garden hose
• Brush
• #20 silica sand

1. Turn off the pump and the circuit breaker that controls the power, and close all shut-off valves to stop the flow of water to and from the pool.

2. Remove the drain plug from the sand canister to allow the water inside to begin draining.

3. Unscrew the fastening bolt and remove the fastening band that attaches the multi-port valve to the sand canister. Lift the multi-port valve off the top of the sand canister to reveal the sand bed.

4. Dump the contents by tipping the canister on its side, and continue scooping out the remainder of the sand either by hand or by using a plastic scoop. Use care as you approach the bottom of the sand so that you do not damage the lateral system attached to the center post.

5. Remove the entire lateral system by either folding the laterals or unscrewing them by hand, and then remove the center post. Examine the entire structure for damage, and replace as necessary.

6. Rinse out the canister with water from a garden hose, and brush any debris or algae off the inside surface.

7. Replace the drain cap on the canister, and fill the canister halfway with fresh water. Place the center post back into the canister with all of the undamaged laterals in place.

8. Use a sand shield or a piece of tinfoil to cover the top opening of the center post, and then begin to gently pour the correct amount of new sand into the partially water filled canister. Place your hand in the direct line of the pour to cushion the impact of the sand on the lateral system. Continue until the canister has the proper amount of sand according to the manufacturer's specifications.

9. Remove the sand shield or tinfoil from the top of the center post, and replace the multi-port valve on top of the canister. Make sure that the center post fits into the center pipe attached to the underside of the multi-port valve. Replace the retaining band and tighten the retaining screw with a screwdriver.

10. Open all gate valves and remove any water stoppages. Turn the multi-port valve to the rinse setting. Turn on the circuit breaker and then the pump, allowing it to run for approximately 20 to 30 seconds to resettle the new sand. Then turn off the pump.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that the center post sits in the exact center of the canister before filling it with sand.

References

• Changing Sand