How Much Sand In A Pool Filter

In our concluding blog we discussed the reasons for changing filter sand as well as the demand for using a quality brand of silica sand – nosotros recommend Mystic White Ii™ silica sand from US Silica. In this blog and the one to follow, I have chosen to focus on the proper method for irresolute the sand in the filter tank.

Although the general idea is "old sand out, new sand in", there is much more to the procedure than you might remember. For this reason I have chosen to split up upwards the process into 2 parts.

Before we begin, it is worth noting that y'all need to use the correct amount of sand that your filter requires. As well much sand and your filter volition likely not run correctly or may break when reassembling. As well piffling sand and you lot will have cloudy water no matter how much your filter runs. For this reason check your filter manufacturer's specs. Typically filters concur sand in 50 lb. increments, and then you can safely expect filters to range from 100, 150, 200, 250 lbs., etc. Also, a projection such every bit this is worth doing correctly and thoroughly, and so plan on having all of the items on hand Before you offset!

CHECKLIST OF ITEMS You MAY WANT TO HAVE BEFOREHAND

CORRECT AMOUNT OF SILICA SAND FOR YOUR FILTER
NEW O-RING BETWEEN THE MULTIPORT AND THE TANK
TEFLON TAPE FOR THREADED FITTINGS
Spousal relationship FITTINGS
SILICONE LUBE (DO NOT utilize petroleum based lube!!)
ADDITIONAL O-RINGS AS NEEDED (This is a good fourth dimension to change while autonomously)

Beginning and foremost, exist sure that the pump is off. You may even want to cut ability to the pump to prevent mishaps. If working on an in a higher place ground puddle or whatever filter that is lower than the pool water level, you will need to cake the menstruum of water out of the pool. This can be done with threaded plugs (1 ½" standard plumbing thread). Next, remove the filter drain cap to allow the filter to empty out. Be sure to put the cap back on BEFORE y'all lose it. The filter cannot run without it!

TYPICAL SIDE MOUNT MULTIPORT SAND FILTER WITH 2-Slice TANK

TYPICAL Acme MULTIPORT
SAND FILTER

And then depending upon where the multiport valve (the mechanism that allows you to change betwixt filter, backwash, rinse, etc.) is you'll need to open the tank. If it is on meridian, y'all demand to disconnect the plumbing or hoses connected to the multiport.

For pools where PVC pipe is used and there are no unions, you lot will need to cut the pipe with a saw. This is actually a good opportunity to install easy connect/disconnect unions for time to come ease. A professional person pool store – like E-Z Test Pool Supplies J! – will have these unions in stock. Later on disconnecting all necessary plumbing attachments, you lot may unscrew the fitting that holds the multiport to the tank. Take intendance when removing this by slowly and gently twisting and pulling the valve upwards to avoid breaking the internal components of the filter. If y'all have the multiport valve on the side of the filter, you will likely have a two-piece tank and can unbolt and remove the top half of the filter, exposing the sand bed. On either type of filter, be sure to cover the open up portion of the stand pipe going into the filter with tape to preclude sand from getting within the pipe – for some filters an upside downwardly Dixie cup works well to comprehend. Remember, any sand that gets into hither will just blow back into the puddle once you're back up and running.

Now information technology's time to get the old sand out of the filter. Although there may exist more than than one fashion to achieve this, hither is a curt list of DO's & DON'TS:

Do	DON'T
Apply A Shop VAC IF ACCESS TO THE SAND IS Hard.USE A Newspaper OR PLASTIC CUP TO EMPTY	TIP THE TANK UPSIDE DOWN TO EMPTY – a skillful way to break internal partsUSE A GARDEN SPADE – another way to break pieces insideATTEMPT TO Motion THE Stand PIPE TO THE SIDE OR UPRWARD UNTIL FULLY UNCOVERED FROM THE SAND

Once your tank is largely empty of sand you'll demand to remove the stand piping and lateral assembly. For some models the laterals (these look similar spokes on a wagon bicycle) these will rotate upward ninety° to a vertical position. Other types of laterals will unscrew from the base of the stand pipe. Exist sure that unless you are absolutely sure which type yous have, be very careful in trying to turn these so as to remove the associates. One time these laterals are out of the mode, next remove the complete assembly from the tank. At this point inspect these pieces advisedly for cracks or damage, as any unwanted openings volition let sand from inside the tank to laissez passer straight into the puddle. The time to replace defective or even questionable parts is NOW! Information technology is at this signal that the tank may be thoroughly rinsed with water to remove the residual of the remaining sand.

In our adjacent blog we'll pick upwardly from hither giving you tips on how to get it all together!…the filter that is. Sorry, I'm non a life coach!

Anyway, until next time, keep swimming!

Read Part i of the web log: https://www.eztestpools.com/blog/sand-filters-101-how-important-is-sand-quality-part-i-of-3/

Read Function iii of the blog: https://www.eztestpools.com/blog/sand-filters-101-how-important-is-sand-quality-changing-your-filters-sand-part-3-of-iii/