how to fill pool filter with sand

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

How to Fill Pool Filter With Sand

If you're a pool owner, then you know the importance of keeping your pool water clean and safe for swimming. A pool filter is an essential component of your swimming pool's maintenance system. It helps remove dirt and debris from your pool water, keeping it crystal clear and free of harmful bacteria.

One of the common types of pool filters is the sand filter. This type of filter uses sand as the filter media. In this article, we'll go through a step-by-step guide on how to fill pool filter with sand.

Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Sand

When it comes to filling your pool filter with sand, it's vital to choose the right type of sand. You should opt for #20 silica sand, which is specially graded to catch particles within the 20-40 micron range.

Avoid using regular playground sand, which could clog your filter and create silica dust, which could be harmful to your lungs.

Step 2: Turn off the Pool Pump

Before you begin filling your pool filter with sand, you must turn off the pool pump. This will prevent any water flow through the filter media as you add the sand.

Step 3: Remove the Old Sand

If you're replacing the old sand in your pool filter, you'll need to remove it first. To do this, you'll have to unscrew the filter's drain plug at the bottom and allow the old sand to drain out into a container.

Step 4: Clean the Filter Tank

After removing the old sand, you'll need to clean the filter tank thoroughly. Use a hose to rinse away any debris or leftover sand. Then, use a simple solution of muriatic acid and water to clean the inside of the tank. Rinse again with clean water.

Step 5: Fill the Filter Tank with Sand

Once the filter tank is clean, it's time to fill it with sand. Consult your pool filter's owner's manual to determine how much sand your filter requires. Be careful not to overfill the filter as this will create an uneven flow of water through the filter media.

It's best to use a funnel when adding the sand to the filter. Make sure to distribute the sand evenly throughout the filter, creating a level layer.

Step 6: Reassemble the Filter

Once you've filled the filter tank with sand, it's time to reassemble the filter. Make sure to replace the drain plug and any other parts that you removed earlier.

Step 7: Backwash the Filter

Before starting up your pool pump again, you need to backwash the filter. This process will flush out any loose sand or debris that may have accumulated during the filling process.

Follow your pool filter's owner's manual for the backwashing procedure.

Step 8: Start Up the Pool Pump

After backwashing the filter, start up your pool pump again. Monitor the filter pressure gauge on a regular basis to see when the filter requires backwashing.

Conclusion

Filling your pool filter with sand is an essential part of pool maintenance. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pool filter is operating at its best, keeping your pool water crystal clear and safe for swimming.

Remember to always consult your pool filter's owner's manual for specific instructions on how to fill and maintain your particular filter.