Common Issues with Sand Filters and How to Troubleshoot Them

Sand filters are an integral part of many pool and water filtration systems. These filters are highly effective in removing debris and impurities. However, they sometimes face issues due to wear or improper maintenance.

In this guide, we will talk about some common issues with sand filters and how to troubleshoot them. We will also introduce you to high-quality sand filters suppliers where you can find reliable sand filters for your pool.

Learn how to diagnose common issues with sand filters and keep your sand filters working.

How Do Sand Filters Work?

If you know the basics of a sand filter, troubleshooting it will be much easier. A sand filter usually has the following components.

● Filter Tank: It holds the sand and water during the filtration process.

● Control Valve: It directs the water flow through functions like filtering, backwashing, and rinsing.

● Lateral System and Standpipe: This system collects filtered water and prevents sand from entering the pool.

Common Issues with Sand Filters: Causes and Troubleshooting

Here is how to troubleshoot the most common problems with sand filters.

1. Pool Water Is Not Clear or Clean

Causes

● The backwash cycle is too frequent

● Freeboard is not sufficient

● Improper sand was used for replacement purposes

● The turnover rate is insufficient

● There is algae growth

● The sand is dirty or saturated

● Improper water chemistry

Troubleshooting

➔ You must perform a deep clean or replace the sand.

➔ If the sand isn't dirty, break up sand clumps using a non-metallic rod.

➔ Backwash according to the pressure mentioned in the user manual.

➔ Check the flow meter of the filter and see if there are any hydraulic restrictions. You can also try limiting the user load.

➔ Maintaining proper pool chemistry is also important. Make sure the pH and chlorine levels are within limits.

2. Low Water Flow or Pressure to the Pool

Causes

● The sand bed is clogged with dirt, algae, or oils

● The return lines are obstructed

● The pump basket or impeller is clogged

● There is a blockage in the suction line to the pump

● The impeller is damaged or broken

Troubleshooting

➔ The first step is to perform a thorough backwash to clean the sand bed.

➔ If the problem persists, check the hair and lint basket. Also, check the skimmer strainer.

➔ See if there are kinks, blockages, or air leaks in the return lines. If so, clean or replace the lines.

➔ If the impeller is broken or damaged, you must disassemble the pump and repair it.

3. High Filter Pressure

Causes

● Backwashing is insufficient

● Sand bed is blocked with mineral deposits

● The return line is clogged

● The valve is partially closed

Troubleshooting

➔ You must backwash following the manufacturer's instructions. Check the sight gauge and continue backwashing until effluent is clear.

➔ Then, chemically soak the sand bed with commercial sand cleaner to remove mineral deposits.

➔ If the return line is clogged, remove the obstruction.

➔ Make sure the valve is fully open. If the valve is bent or jammed, replace the valve.

4. Sand in the Pool

Causes

● A broken under-drain lateral is the most common reason behind sand in the pool.

● A damaged standpipe can also cause this problem.

● If you use incorrect sand or overly fine sand, this problem can happen.

Troubleshooting

➔ Remove sand from the bed. Then, check the standpipe and laterals for damage.

➔ If the laterals or standpipe is damaged, replace them.

➔ After replacing the faulty components, refill the bed with #20-grade silica sand. Please avoid using playground or beach sand in your pool filter.

5. Sand in Wastewater

Causes

● The distributor or air strainer is damaged

● The backwash rate of the filter is too high

● Improper sand size can also cause this problem

Troubleshooting

➔ Replace the damaged distributor or air strainer first.

➔ Then, reduce the backwash flow rate.

➔ Finally, replace the sand with #20-grade silicon sand or as specified by the filter manufacturer.

6. Short Filter Cycles

Causes

● Improper backwash procedures

● The sand bed is blocked

● There is algae growth

● High flow rate is higher than the Filter Media Rate

● Pool chemicals are being fed into recirculation

Troubleshooting

➔ Perform backwash according to the manufacturer's instructions.

➔ Remove the top 1-2 inches of sand and replace it with new sand. Chemically soak the sand bed with a commercial sand cleaner.

➔ Treat algae and maintain proper pool chemistry.

➔ Manage water flow through filters using the flow meter.

Best Practices to Keep Sand Filters Working

Here are some tips to maintain sand filters for improved durability.

1. Replace the sand periodically. Depending on filter specifications, you may need to replace the sand every 3-5 years.

2. Avoid infrequent or overly frequent backwashing habits. Only backwash when pressure rises 7-10 psi above the clean baseline.

3. Backwashing for 2-3 minutes is okay.

4. Do not overfill the tank with and. The recommended level is usually two-third of the tank.

5. Maintain proper chemical balance in the pool, including pH and chlorine.

6. Before operating the filter at the start of each season, inspect valve components.

7. Clean pump baskets and skimmers every week.

Where to Find the Best Sand Filters?

If you are looking for sand filters suppliers, Poolking can be your go-to option. It is a manufacturer of sand filters and other equipment for your fool. Poolking is also a supplier of sand filters.

Multiple types of sand filters from various manufacturers are available at Poolking. So, you can choose from a variety of models and sizes suitable for your pool.

Final Words

Sand filters help you keep the water in your swimming pool clean. But if the sand filter itself isn’t durable or maintained properly, some common issues can occur. If you are aware of possible issues and know what causes these problems, you are more likely to solve the issues faster.

Getting a good sand filter can help you avoid unwanted faults or damages prematurely. In that case, you can expect a longer service life with the least maintenance. We recommend Poolking for high-quality sand filters and other equipment for your swimming pool.