How Much Sand Does A Pool Filter Hold

In our last blog we discussed the reasons for irresolute filter sand too every bit the need for using a quality brand of silica sand – nosotros recommend Mystic White 2™ silica sand from U.s. Silica. In this blog and the one to follow, I have chosen to focus on the proper method for changing the sand in the filter tank.

Although the full general thought is "old sand out, new sand in", there is much more than to the process than yous might think. For this reason I have chosen to dissever up the process into two parts.

Before we brainstorm, it is worth noting that you need to use the correct amount of sand that your filter requires. Too much sand and your filter will likely not run correctly or may pause when reassembling. Too fiddling sand and you will accept cloudy water no matter how much your filter runs. For this reason check your filter manufacturer'southward specs. Typically filters hold sand in 50 lb. increments, and then you tin can safely expect filters to range from 100, 150, 200, 250 lbs., etc. Besides, a project such every bit this is worth doing correctly and thoroughly, so programme on having all of the items on paw Before you lot start!

CHECKLIST OF ITEMS Y'all MAY WANT TO Have BEFOREHAND

Correct Corporeality OF SILICA SAND FOR YOUR FILTER
NEW O-Band Between THE MULTIPORT AND THE TANK
TEFLON Tape FOR THREADED FITTINGS
UNION FITTINGS
SILICONE LUBE (DO Not use petroleum based lube!!)
Additional O-RINGS As NEEDED (This is a expert fourth dimension to alter while autonomously)

First and foremost, be sure that the pump is off. You may even desire to cut power to the pump to forestall mishaps. If working on an above ground pool or any filter that is lower than the pool water level, you will demand to block the flow of water out of the pool. This can exist washed with threaded plugs (1 ½" standard plumbing thread). Next, remove the filter drain cap to allow the filter to empty out. Be certain to put the cap back on BEFORE you lose it. The filter cannot run without it!

TYPICAL SIDE MOUNT MULTIPORT SAND FILTER WITH ii-PIECE TANK

TYPICAL Superlative MULTIPORT
SAND FILTER

Then depending upon where the multiport valve (the machinery that allows yous to alter betwixt filter, backwash, rinse, etc.) is yous'll need to open the tank. If information technology is on tiptop, you need to disconnect the plumbing or hoses connected to the multiport.

For pools where PVC pipe is used and in that location are no unions, y'all will demand to cutting the pipage with a saw. This is actually a skillful opportunity to install easy connect/disconnect unions for hereafter ease. A professional pool store – like E-Z Test Pool Supplies J! – will have these unions in stock. After disconnecting all necessary plumbing attachments, y'all may unscrew the fitting that holds the multiport to the tank. Accept care when removing this past slowly and gently twisting and pulling the valve upward to avoid breaking the internal components of the filter. If you have the multiport valve on the side of the filter, yous will likely have a ii-piece tank and can unbolt and remove the height half of the filter, exposing the sand bed. On either type of filter, be certain to cover the open portion of the stand pipe going into the filter with tape to prevent sand from getting inside the piping – for some filters an upside downwards Dixie loving cup works well to embrace. Call up, whatever sand that gets into here volition only blow dorsum into the puddle once yous're back upward and running.

At present it's time to go the former sand out of the filter. Although there may be more one style to accomplish this, here is a short list of Practise'due south & DON'TS:

Do	DON'T
Use A Shop VAC IF ACCESS TO THE SAND IS DIFFICULT.Utilise A PAPER OR PLASTIC CUP TO EMPTY	TIP THE TANK UPSIDE Down TO EMPTY – a good manner to break internal partsUSE A GARDEN SPADE – another way to break pieces insideATTEMPT TO MOVE 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 pipe and lateral associates. For some models the laterals (these expect like spokes on a wagon wheel) these volition rotate up xc° to a vertical position. Other types of laterals volition unscrew from the base of operations of the stand pipage. Exist certain that unless you are absolutely sure which type you take, be very careful in trying to turn these so every bit to remove the assembly. In one case these laterals are out of the way, next remove the complete assembly from the tank. At this bespeak audit these pieces advisedly for cracks or harm, as any unwanted openings will permit sand from inside the tank to pass direct into the puddle. The time to replace defective or fifty-fifty questionable parts is NOW! Information technology is at this point that the tank may exist thoroughly rinsed with water to remove the balance of the remaining sand.

In our adjacent blog we'll choice upwards from here giving you tips on how to get it all together!…the filter that is. Lamentable, I'k not a life coach!

Anyway, until next time, proceed pond!

Read Part ane of the weblog: https://world wide web.eztestpools.com/web log/sand-filters-101-how-of import-is-sand-quality-office-one-of-3/

Read Office three of the blog: https://www.eztestpools.com/blog/sand-filters-101-how-important-is-sand-quality-irresolute-your-filters-sand-part-3-of-3/