Maintenance, charging, changing and checking of sand to the pool filter

Loading the sand filter: Why, when and how to do it?

Every pool should have a sand filter, whose function is to retain the dirt in the water. In order for this instrument to always work properly, you must take certain measures. What do we mean? PoolFunStore advice has the answer you are looking for below. Also, visit our pool maintenance section.

Why it is important to check the sand in the filter

If your filter does not have the right volume of sand, it will not work properly. The most important factor in the calculation of this measure is the water flow, that is, the capacity of the filter to treat the water supplied by the pump.

To know the recommended sand load for your filter, you should consult the manufacturer's specifications. You can find them in the manual that comes with the product, on the brand's website or on the label attached to the equipment. You haven't bought the filter yet? You can consult a table where the required sand load is related to the water flow it supports.

As the months go by, the sand level decreases. That is why it is so important to check it from time to time. If it is in good condition, then add as much as necessary.

Approximately every three years, the condition of the sand in the filter should be checked. This means looking at its appearance and consistency. The sand is worn away by time and, above all, by use. So take a good look at its appearance and consistency. Are the granules sparse? Does it feel doughy to the touch? If the answer is yes, it has lost filtering capacity. It's time to make a total replacement.

How do you load sand into your pool filter?

When the time comes to load the sand, a series of steps must be taken. PoolFunStore tips tell you what they are.

1. Switch off the pump and close the inlet tap to prevent water from flowing through the filter. 

2. Drain all the water left in the filter to make it easier to replace the sand. To do this, you will have to open the exhaust valve. Generally, it is enough to remove a screw to allow the water to escape through the bottom of the filter.

3. Remove the top cover of the filter by removing the screws that hold it in place and turning it counter-clockwise. In this way, you will be able to access the inside of the filter to fill it.

However, if the sand needs to be replaced, then you should proceed to the next steps:

4. Remove the water diffuser from the filter. This is a system that is located in the central part, and consists of a tube and a device in its upper part. When removing it, there will be a hole with the shape of the diffuser, which must be covered in order to prevent the sand from falling through it. You could use a plastic bag to do this, making sure that it completely covers the opening.

5. Remove the sand. You can use a small shovel, a plastic bottle cut in half or another tool to make this task easier, although a powerful vacuum cleaner would do a faster and more efficient job.   

6. Replace the water diffuser. Remove the plastic bag that covers the hole and put the system where it belongs.

7. Fill the filter with new sand. This is usually sold in 25 kg bags. The capacity of your filter will determine the number of bags you will need to buy. Just try not to empty the sand too hard so as not to damage the filter.

If you need more information on how to take care of your favorite area of the home, visit our pool maintenance section.