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A sand filter holds 250 lbs or more of special filter sand. The pool water filters through the sand, which catches debris and small particulates, and sends clean water back into the pool. Water is introduced through the filter, runs through the material, and sends clear water back into the pool.
Is a sand filter better for a pool?
Sand Filters are still great options, especially for larger residential and commercial pools with more powerful Pool Pumps. Unlike Cartridge Filters, Sand Filters need to be sized according to your pool pump. If your pool pump is over 1.5 HP, we typically recommend choosing a Cartridge Filter over a Sand Filter.
What is the purpose of pool filter sand?
Pool sand filters use sand as the medium of choice to trap dirt and debris. Water flows through the sand while unwanted particles are caught and trapped. Sand meant for use in these filtering systems is specially graded to make sure the individual grains of sand are the right size.
Can you run a pool without a sand filter?
Conclusion. A pool should not be operated without a filter for a long period of time, however in rare cases where you need to do so for a short period of time, you can do so safely.
Do you need chemicals with a sand filter?
You need chemicals with a sand filter because they require sanitization, phosphate removal, pH adjustments, and alkalinity alterations. Some of these chemicals include muriatic acid, soda ash, alkalinity increasers and decreasers, and chlorine.
Is a sand filter or cartridge filter better?
Cartridge filters can screen out twice as much dirt and debris as a sand filter. Its larger filtration area allows the water to progress through the cartridge removing smaller particles. Maintenance is much easier in that there is no need for a back-washing step.
How do you backwash a pool with a sand filter?
How to Backwash a Pool Sand Filter Turn off the pool pump. Set the filter valve handle to the ‘Backwash’ position and ensure the handle locks in place. Turn the pump on and backwash for 2 minutes or until the water in the sight glass (located on the filter) is running clear. Turn off the pump.
How often should you change the sand in your pool filter?
On average, sand should be replaced every 3-5 years. This may be longer if the pool stays clear, or shorter, if the filter runs all the time. The jagged edges of the sand wear down and become smooth as the sand ages.
How do you maintain a pool with a sand filter?
In order for your sand filter to work optimally, it is important to clean the filter sand regularly. Stop the pump. Close the valves on the suction and return lines. Open the cover of the pump and empty the filter basket. Refit the cover. Open the valve to the drain outlet. Turn the lever to BACKWASH.
What happens if I dont put enough sand in my sand filter?
Too much sand and your filter will likely not run correctly or may break when reassembling. Too little sand and you will have cloudy water no matter how much your filter runs. Typically filters hold sand in 50 lb. increments, so you can safely expect filters to range from 100, 150, 200, 250 lbs., etc.
How much does it cost to change sand in sand filter?
Replacement sand for your sand filter typically costs around $25 per 50-pound bag, and your filter may require 100 to 600 pounds or more depending on the size and model.
Which type of pool filter is best?
Best Pool Filter Type Sand filters are least effective but also the least expensive to buy and use. Cartridge filters are more effective but are more expensive to buy and use. DE filters are the most effective but are the most expensive to buy and use.
How long should you run a sand pool filter?
It is recommended that you turn over the water in your pool at least twice a day (refer to chart at bottom of page for your pools capacity). Run filter more in hot weather or with heavy bather load. As a general rule of thumb, turn your sand filter on 1 hour per 10° F of weather.
Can you use a sand filter with a salt water pool?
You still need the sand filter. The saltwater setup turns the salt to chloride (sodium chloride) and the ozonator kills germs etc the sand filter filters out the algae and all the other particles before the water goes through the saltwater system.
How many hours a day should I run my pool filter?
Overall, the lessons learned today is you should run your pool pump an average 8 hours a day to properly circulate and clean your water. The pump should push your entire pool in gallons in this 8 hour period of time. Residential pool water only needs to be turned over once daily to have proper filtration.
What size sand filter do I need for a 25000 gallon pool?
Don’t use anything below a 48 sq. ft. filter, and if your pool is over 25,000 gallons, go with the big option (the 60 sq. ft.
How often should you backwash pool?
“When do we need to backwash?” – It is recommended to backwash your filter once every 4-6 weeks of regular use. Additionally, there are several instances that would require backwashing in between the normal monthly backwashing.
Should sand come out when I backwash?
In general, you shouldn’t be losing sand from your sand filter. Nor should any sand be coming out during backwashing, rinsing or filtering.
How long do you rinse after backwash?
Turn off the pump to cease the backwashing. Turn the filter valve handle to RINSE and ensure the handle locks in place. Allow the rinse process to occur for 1 minute or until the water is clear.
