can you put play sand in a pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Can You Put Play Sand in a Pool Filter?

Sand filters are an efficient and effective way to keep your pool clean and healthy. But what happens when you run out of pool filter sand? Can you use play sand instead? After all, play sand is cheaper and more readily available than pool filter sand.

In this article, we explore whether you can use play sand in your pool filter, and what considerations you need to keep in mind.

Understanding the Role of Pool Filter Sand

Before we explore whether play sand can be used in a pool filter, let's first understand the role of pool filter sand.

Pool filter sand is a specially graded and cleaned sand that is designed to trap particles and debris in your pool water. As the water flows through the sand, the sand particles trap the contaminants, allowing clean water to flow back into your pool.

The grain size and shape of pool filter sand are critical in ensuring effective filtration. Too fine and the sand won't capture larger particles; too coarse, and the sand won't trap the smaller particles. Additionally, the angular shape of pool filter sand is what creates the nooks and crannies that capture the particles.

Using Play Sand in a Pool Filter

Now that we understand the role of pool filter sand let's explore whether play sand can be used instead.

The short answer is yes. Play sand can be used in a pool filter. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Grain Size: Ensure the grain size of your play sand is similar to that of pool filter sand. If the grain size is too fine or too coarse, you risk poor filtration and a shorter lifespan of your filter

Shape: Angular sand is preferred over rounded sand for pool filters. Angular sand has more edges and crevices, which traps more contaminants than rounded sand

Purity: Play sand may contain impurities that may harm your pool. Before using play sand in your pool filter, mix it with pool filter sand to dilute any impurities present in the play sand

Depth: Ensure that the depth of your sand bed is within the recommended range for your specific pool filter. A proper sand bed depth allows for proper filtration and maximum lifespan of your filter.

Maintenance: Maintaining your play sand filter requires regular backwashing, just like a pool filter. Ensure that your play sand filter's backwash and rinse cycles are adequately flushing out the trapped contaminants.

Risks of Using Play Sand in a Pool Filter

While play sand can be used in a pool filter with proper consideration, there are still risks associated with using play sand.

The impurities found in play sand can cause staining, clogging, and discoloration in your pool. Play sand contains small rocks, pebbles, and shells that can scratch and damage your pool equipment.

Additionally, play sand is not certified for pool use. This means that using play sand in your pool filter may void your pool equipment warranty.

The Bottom Line

While it is possible to use play sand in a pool filter, it is not recommended. Pool filter sand is specifically designed for use in pool filters and is the safest option.

If you must use play sand, ensure that the grain size, shape, and purity are suitable for your pool filter. Regular maintenance and backwashing are necessary to ensure that your play sand filter is working correctly.

However, it is highly recommended that you invest in pool filter sand to avoid any potential damage to your pool equipment and voiding of warranties.