how to change the sand in a pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Change the Sand in a Pool Filter

If the sand in your pool filter has been in service for more than five years, it may be time to change it. As sand becomes clogged with particles and debris, it loses its effectiveness and can even create pressure on the filter, leading to early failure. The good news is, changing the sand in a pool filter is a relatively simple process that can be easily accomplished with the right tools and a little time. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps for safely and effectively changing the sand in your pool filter.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. You’ll need safety goggles, rubber gloves, a bucket, a garden hose or pressure washer, a shop vac, a pool filter sand replacement kit (or the right amount of pool filter sand), and a screwdriver or wrench (depending on your filter type).

Step 1: Turn Off The Power

The first thing you’ll need to do is turn off the power to your pool pump. This will prevent any accidents during the process.

Step 2: Release The Pressure From The Filter

Once you’ve turned off the power, you’ll need to relieve the pressure from the pool filter. This can be accomplished by opening the air bleeder valve on top of your filter, or by removing the pressure gauge.

Step 3: Remove The Filter Cover

Next, you’ll need to remove the filter cover. Depending on your filter type, you may need a screwdriver or a wrench to do this.

Step 4: Remove The Old Sand

With the filter cover removed, you should see the old sand inside the filter. Using a shop vac, remove as much of the old sand as possible. This will make it easier to remove the remaining sand.

Step 5: Rinse The Filter

Once you’ve removed as much of the old sand as possible, use a garden hose or pressure washer to rinse the inside of the filter. This will help remove any remaining sand and debris.

Step 6: Add The New Sand

With the filter rinsed, it’s time to add the new sand. Most pool filter sand replacement kits will tell you how much sand you need to add based on the size of your filter. If you’re not using a replacement kit, consult your user manual for the proper amount of sand. Using a funnel, slowly pour the new sand into the filter, making sure not to get any inside the pipe.

Step 7: Replace The Filter Cover

Once you’ve added the new sand, replace the filter cover and tighten any screws or bolts as necessary.

Step 8: Start The Pump

With the new sand added and the filter cover in place, it’s time to start the pump. Once the pump is running, check the filter pressure gauge to ensure that the pressure is within the normal range for your filter.

Conclusion

Changing the sand in your pool filter is an important part of maintaining a healthy, clean pool. By following these steps and taking the time to do the job right, you can ensure that your pool filter is working at peak efficiency, helping to keep your pool crystal clear all season long. Remember to always wear safety goggles and rubber gloves throughout the process to protect yourself from injury.