why does sand come out of my pool filter

Why Does Sand Come Out of My Pool Filter?

As an avid swimming pool owner, you might be troubled when you find sand in your pool. It is not uncommon to have sand come out of your pool filter. Sand in your pool is unsightly and can hamper the swimming experience for you and your family. To fully understand why sand comes out of the pool filter, we have to look at the technology behind pool filtration. In this article, we will talk about the pool filtration process, reasons for sand in your pool, and tips on how to fix your pool filter.

1. The Pool Filtration Process

The pool filtration process comprises of passing water through different filtration media. Some of the filtration devices you might have in your pool include sand filters, cartridge filters, and DE filters. Sand filters are the most common and function by circulating water through a bed of sand. The sand captures dirt, debris, and other impurities, leaving the water clean. After a while, the collected impurities build up, reducing the sand's effectiveness. This necessitates a backwashing process where the filter reverses water flow, flushing out the trapped dirt.

2. Reasons for Sand in Your Pool

There are several reasons why you might have sand in your pool. One of the most common reasons is a broken or damaged pool laterals. Pool laterals are thin pipes located underneath the sand bed. They allow water to pass through while retaining the sand bed. Over time, these laterals can break or crack from the high pressure of water flow. This creates a channel for sand to pass through and into your pool. If you suspect this is the problem, you should hire a professional to inspect your pool.

Another reason why sand might come out of your pool filter is a broken or damaged filter diverter. The diverter plate is located atop the filter, separating the water inlet from the outlet. The diverter tier distributes the water evenly on the surface of the sand bed. If the filter diverter is broken, it can cause channels to form, allowing sand into your pool.

3. Tips on How to Fix Your Pool Filter

If you notice sand in your pool, the first step should be to inspect your pool filter. You should open the filter and check the filter laterals for cracks or breaks. Replace broken or damaged laterals, and this should fix the sand problem. You can also replace the filter sand if it is old and ineffective.

Another tip to fix your pool filter is to inspect the valve assembly. The valve assembly comprises of different valves that direct the water in and out of the filter. Mispositioned valves can cause water flow issues, leading to sand in your pool. Inspect the valve assembly for faults and replace any broken valves.

4. Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance is crucial in ensuring your pool filter remains effective. Regular backwashing of the filter bed helps to remove impurities and extend the life of the sand. You should also inspect your pool filter at least twice a year to clean it and replace any worn-out parts. If you live in an area with hard water, you should descale your pool filter at least once a year.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, finding sand in your pool can be frustrating, but it is not impossible to fix. It is essential to regularly inspect and maintain your pool filter to ensure it works properly. You should replace any broken parts, and if necessary, enlist the services of a professional pool technician. With regular maintenance, your pool filter will last longer, and your pool water will be free of impurities.