can i use play sand in my pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Can I Use Play Sand in My Pool Filter? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you own a pool, ensuring that the water stays clean and clear is crucial. One of the ways to achieve that is by investing in a quality pool filter that removes dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the water. However, choosing the right type of filter media can be confusing, especially if you’re on a tight budget. You may be wondering if you can use play sand in your pool filter instead of the more expensive options.

In this article, we’ll discuss whether play sand is a viable alternative for pool filter media and what factors to consider before using it. We’ll also explore the pros and cons of using play sand and whether it’s safe for your pool and swimmers.

What is Play Sand?

Play sand is a type of fine-grain sand that’s commonly used in sandboxes, playgrounds, and other recreational areas. It’s made from natural silica or quartz, and it’s usually washed, sterilized, and sifted to remove impurities. Play sand is inexpensive and widely available, making it a popular choice for kids’ play areas.

Can You Use Play Sand in a Pool Filter?

The short answer is yes; you can use play sand in a pool filter. However, whether it’s a good idea or not depends on several factors. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

1. Particle Size

The size of the media particles is a critical factor in pool filtration. The ideal size is around 0.45 to 0.55 millimeters, which allows for efficient removal of debris and contaminants while maintaining good water flow. Play sand typically has a particle size of around 0.25 to 0.5 millimeters, which falls within the acceptable range for pool filtration. However, the size distribution of play sand is generally not as consistent as that of commercial pool filter sand, which can affect its effectiveness.

2. Uniformity Coefficient

The uniformity coefficient (UC) is a measure of how evenly sized the filter media particles are. The lower the UC, the more consistent the particle size distribution, and the better the filtration performance. Most pool filter sand has a UC of 1.45 or lower, while play sand has a UC of around 1.6 to 1.8. While this may not seem like a huge difference, it can affect the filtration efficiency and flow rate of your pool filter.

3. Grain Shape

The shape of the filter media particles can also affect how well they perform in a pool filter. Commercial pool filter sand typically has a round or spherical shape, which helps to reduce clogging and increase the surface area for filtration. Play sand, on the other hand, has an irregular and angular shape, which can cause it to clump together and reduce water flow.

4. Sand Quality

The quality of the sand you use in your pool filter is critical to maintaining clean and healthy water. Play sand may contain impurities such as clay, silt, or organic matter that can clog your filter and reduce its efficiency. Additionally, some manufacturers may add chemical dyes to give the sand a more vibrant color, which can leach into the pool water and affect its chemistry.

5. Cost

One of the primary advantages of using play sand in your pool filter is that it’s significantly cheaper than commercial pool filter sand. A 50-pound bag of play sand typically costs around $5 to $10, while a bag of pool filter sand can cost up to $25 or more. If you’re on a tight budget or have a large pool that requires a lot of filter media, using play sand can save you a lot of money.

Pros of Using Play Sand in Your Pool Filter

- Inexpensive

- Widely available

- Can be used as a temporary solution

- Safe for swimmers

Cons of Using Play Sand in Your Pool Filter

- Inconsistent particle size distribution

- Higher uniformity coefficient

- Irregular and angular shape

- May contain impurities

- May reduce water flow and filtration efficiency

Conclusion: Is Play Sand a Good Option for Your Pool Filter?

While play sand is a cheaper alternative to commercial pool filter sand, it’s not the most effective option for maintaining clean and clear pool water. Its irregular shape, inconsistent particle size distribution, and higher uniformity coefficient can reduce your filter’s efficiency and clog it up faster. Additionally, play sand may contain impurities that can harm your pool or swimmers.

If you’re on a tight budget and need a temporary solution, using play sand can work. However, it’s essential to monitor your water chemistry regularly and replace the sand more frequently than you would with commercial pool filter sand. Investing in high-quality filter media may cost more upfront but can save you money and headache in the long run. If you’re not sure which type of filter media to use, consult with a pool professional for the best advice.