can you use play sand for a pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

Can You Use Play Sand for a Pool Filter?

If you own a pool, you know how important it is to maintain its cleanliness. A pool filter is a necessary tool in this regard, as it helps to remove debris and other unwanted particles from your pool water. However, choosing the right type of filter media is equally important, and it's not always an easy decision. One common question that beginners often ask is whether they can use play sand for a pool filter. In this article, we'll explore that topic in detail and provide you with all the necessary information.

What is Play Sand?

Play sand is a type of sand that is generally used in sandboxes, play areas, and other recreational purposes. It is usually a type of fine-grain sand that is made of quartz, silicon dioxide, or rock fragments. The color of play sand can vary, but it is typically beige, white, or beige-gray. Play sand is not considered to be a specialty sand, and it is readily available in most home improvement stores.

Pool Filter Media

Pool filter media is the material that is used in a pool filter to trap, remove, and purify contaminants from pool water. There are three primary types of pool filter media: sand, cartridges, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Sand filters are the most commonly used type of pool filter, and they use sand as the filter media.

Using Play Sand for a Pool Filter

Now, let's come to the main question, "Can you use play sand for a pool filter?" The answer is "Yes," but with various limitations. Play sand can be used in a pool filter, but it is not the best option. Play sand can contain impurities that can dissolve into your pool water, leaving it with a cloudy appearance. Additionally, play sand particles are not uniform in shape, and this can lead to the formation of channels in your sand filter, which can reduce its effectiveness.

Moreover, play sand is not suitable for all types of sand filters. Sand filters require a specific type of sand known as #20 silica sand, which has a grain size of 0.45 to 0.55 millimeters. Play sand, on the other hand, has a grain size that varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and it's often too fine to be used in a sand filter.

Alternatives to Play Sand

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option for your pool filter, there are other alternatives to play sand that you can use. One of the most popular options is zeolite sand. Zeolite sand is a natural mineral that is made of volcanic ash. It has a uniform particle size, which makes it more effective than play sand in a sand filter. Additionally, zeolite sand can also remove ammonia and other unwanted chemicals from your pool water.

Another alternative is glass media. Glass media is made of recycled glass and has a unique shape that helps it trap more debris than sand or zeolite. Glass media is also environmentally friendly and can last longer than other types of filter media.

Conclusion

In conclusion, play sand can be used in a pool filter, but it's not the best option. Limitations include impurities that can dissolve into your pool water, the possibility of channeling, and varying grain sizes. If you want the best performance for your pool filter, you may want to consider other alternatives. Zeolite sand and glass media are two great options that are more effective, environmentally friendly, and can last longer.