How to Install an Above-Ground Pool Sand Filter and Pump
Sand filters are a tried-and-true method for cleaning water in an above-ground pool. They pick up dirt particles between 20 and 100 microns (depending on the type of sand used). Aside from sand filter's ability to keep the water clean, cleaning the sand filter is as easy as performing a backwash. Over time, as sand loses its filtering ability, the sand will have to be replaced. Fortunately, replacing the sand in a sand filter only has to be done once every seven years. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Pool-grade sand
Please enter your 10 digit phone number only.
A link to this article has been sent to the phone number provided.
Instructions
-
-
1
Set the sand filter and pump on a firm base on level ground near the above-ground pool. There are internal moving parts in a pump filter, so it's imperative that you place it on a stable ground. In addition to a firm base on level ground, the area must have good drainage so the pump won't be sitting in water.
-
2
Add sand to the filter after you've selected the proper location. Depending on the size of the filter you may have to add anywhere from 150 to 700 lbs. of sand. It's wise to have it in the permanent location first. Sand filters require pool-grade sand. Check your manufacturer's instruction manual to determine how much sand to add.
-
-
3
Attach the pump to the sand filter housing. The pump's discharge (where the water leaves the pump and enters the filter) must be connected to the inlet on the sand filter. Because sand filter filtration system works from the top down, connect a hose from the pump discharge (located close to the ground) to the sand filter intake (located at the top of the filter). If your hose is the clamp-on type, place the open end of the hose in hot water for about five seconds to make it more pliable and easier to affix to both the inlet and discharge.
-
4
Connect a pool hose from the sand filter discharge to the pool inlet and connect another hose from the pool skimmer to the pump intake. If your above-ground pool has a main drain, the hose from the main drain must also connect to the pump inlet. You'll need a fitting that will allow both water sources to funnel into the pump.
-
5
Open the air relief valve to allow the air trapped in the sand filter to escape.
-
6
Plug in the pool pump and turn on the filter. Once water sprays out of the open air release valve, close the valve.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some manufacturers recommend filling ½ of the sand tank with water before adding the sand. The water provides a cushion and helps protect the filter's underdrain laterals (which support the weight of the sand) from too much shock.
