can i use play sand in pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Can I Use Play Sand in Pool Filter?

A common question asked by many pool owners is whether or not they can use play sand in their pool filter. Play sand is a popular choice for children’s sandbox, but is it suitable for filtering pool water? In this article, we will answer this question by looking at the properties of play sand, the importance of using the correct type of sand in pool filters, and the benefits and drawbacks of using play sand in your pool filter.

What is Play Sand?

Play sand is commonly used in sandboxes and playgrounds. It is a fine-grained sand that is typically made from silica, a mineral found in rocks and beach sand. Play sand is often washed and screened to remove any debris, making it a clean and safe option for children to play with.

Properties of Play Sand

Play sand is not designed for use as a filter media in pool filters, but it does have some properties that make it attractive for this purpose. Play sand is affordable and readily available at most home improvement stores. It is also lightweight and easy to handle, which makes it convenient for use in small pool filters.

Why Use the Right Type of Sand in Pool Filters?

Pool filters are an essential component of any swimming pool, and they are responsible for removing impurities and debris from the water. To function properly, pool filters require a specific type of sand known as filter sand. This sand is specially designed to trap particles as water passes through the filter, ensuring that only clean water is returned to the pool.

Using the wrong type of sand in your pool filter can cause several problems. It can result in poor filtration, which can lead to cloudy water, and it can also damage the internal components of your filter, causing it to fail prematurely.

Benefits of Using Play Sand in Pool Filters

There are some benefits to using play sand in pool filters. As previously mentioned, play sand is affordable and readily available. It is also lightweight and easy to handle, which can make it more convenient than other types of sand.

Moreover, play sand can effectively filter out debris and particles from pool water. It can also help maintain proper water flow and pressure within the filter, which can help extend the life of your filter.

Drawbacks of Using Play Sand in Pool Filters

While there are benefits to using play sand in pool filters, there are also some significant drawbacks to consider. One of the most significant issues is that play sand is not designed for use in pool filters, so it may not work as effectively as filter sand.

Another issue with using play sand is that it may contain impurities that can cause problems with your pool water. For example, play sand can contain clay, silt, and other minerals that can cause your pool water to become cloudy or discolored.

Furthermore, play sand can clog your pool filter, reducing water flow and causing your filter to work harder than it needs to. This can ultimately decrease the lifespan of your filter and cause it to fail prematurely.

Conclusion

In summary, it is not advisable to use play sand in your pool filter as it is not designed for this purpose. Using the correct type of sand, filter sand, is essential for ensuring proper filtration and maintaining the longevity of your pool filter. While play sand may be an affordable and convenient option, it can lead to poor filtration, damage to your filter, and impurities in your pool water. So, it is always best to use the correct type of sand recommended by the manufacturer for the best performance of your pool filter.