Collection: Sand Filters

Sand Filters remove particles as small as 20 microns. Filter media is relatively inexpensive, but routine backwashing is required and replacing the sand is very labor-intensive. Sand should be changed every 3 to 5 years. Silica Sand is the most common used and easiest to find, also the one we recommend.

Backwashing should be done every 1-2 weeks or when tank is full. When the system is full & plugged up that will cause high pressure reading on gauge and weak flow of water out the return (jet-eye).

*Always backwash first after a sand change to get ultra fine silt out, and not into the pool!

Here’s how to backwash.

1) Turn Off the Pump to prevent damage. (Keep water valves open).

2) Press down control valve handle and turn to the “Backwash” setting.

3) Restart pump and let it run for 30 sec. - 2 minutes or until the water coming out is clear.

4) Turn off the pump and turn valve handle to “Rinse.”

5) Restart pump and rinse for 10-30 seconds.

6) Turn off pump and turn the valve handle back to “Filter."

7) Restart pump, make sure valves are open, check for proper water flow in the intake (skimmer) and return (jet-eye), double check all settings and look for water leaks before walking away.

• Pros - Simplest to maintain with periodic backwashing, cost effective.
• Cons - Less efficient at filtering very fine particles, requires sand replacement every 3-5 years, heavy and hard to move, water loss from backwashing.

- We also recommend letting your filter system run 24hr/7days, the few dollars spent on the electric bill is tiny compared to having problems and having to spend hundreds or more on chemicals and/or a complete water change. If you don't want your pump to run all day, then we recommend 16on/8off.