how to turn on sand pool filter

Author: PoolKing - Pool Sand Filter Manufacturers

How to Turn on Sand Pool Filter: A Comprehensive Guide

If you've recently installed a sand pool filter and you're not sure how to use it, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of turning on your sand pool filter step-by-step. By the end of this guide, you'll know how to use your sand pool filter and keep your pool water crystal clear with ease. Let's jump in!

Understanding Your Sand Pool Filter

Before we dive into the steps to turn on your sand pool filter, let's first understand what a sand pool filter is and how it works.

A sand pool filter is a type of pool filter that uses sand as the filter media to trap dirt and debris from your pool water. As the water flows through the sand, the sand captures the debris and keeps it from going back into the pool. Sand pool filters are easy to maintain and are the most popular type of pool filter used in residential swimming pool systems.

Now that we understand the basics let's move on to the steps to turn on your sand pool filter.

Step 1: Check the Pressure Gauge

Before turning on your sand pool filter, check the pressure gauge to ensure that the pressure is at the correct level. The pressure gauge is usually located near the top of the filter tank and shows the pressure inside the tank. The ideal pressure range for most sand pool filters is between 8-10 pounds per square inch (psi).

Step 2: Close the Valves

Ensure that all the valves leading to and from the pump are closed. This includes the main drain, skimmer, and return lines. This is an important step to ensure that water doesn't escape your pool system when starting up the filter.

Step 3: Turn on the Pump

Now, it's time to turn on the pool pump. This is usually done at the circuit breaker or the control panel. Once on, the pump will draw water from the pool through the skimmer and main drain.

Step 4: Open the Valves

Once the pump is running, slowly open the skimmer and main drain valves. This will allow water to flow into the filter tank.

Step 5: Backwash the Filter

Now that water is flowing through your sand pool filter, it's time to backwash it. Backwashing is the process of reversing the water flow through the filter, which helps to remove any debris trapped in the sand. To backwash your filter:

- Set the filter valve to the "backwash" position.

- Run the pump for 2-3 minutes or until the water coming out of the waste pipe is clear.

- Turn off the pump.

- Set the filter valve to the "rinse" position.

- Turn on the pump and run it for 1-2 minutes to flush out any remaining dirt from the filter tank.

Step 6: Turn the Filter On

After backwashing and rinsing, set the filter valve back to the "filter" position, and turn on the pump again. Congratulations! Your sand pool filter is now running, and your pool water should be nice and clean.

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean pool is important for the safety and enjoyment of everyone who uses it. By following these steps, you can easily turn on your sand pool filter and keep your pool water crystal clear. Remember to check the pressure gauge, close the valves, turn on the pump, open the valves, backwash the filter, and finally, turn on the filter when starting up your sand pool filter. With proper maintenance and regular checks, your sand pool filter will keep your pool sparkling clean for years to come.