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The sand filter is among the three different filters used in the pool to filter out debris and dirt. The sand filter comes with sand particles inside the filter manifold. These sand particles were graded to trap particles in the range of 20 – 100 micron.
The efficiency of the sand increases with each use making it more capable of trapping more dirt as time goes, but you may need to backwash the filter yearly to remove all the trapped dirt. After prolonged use, the filter begins to experience a gradual loss of efficiency for a while and would require a change of sand to get it functioning to its usual standard.
People say the ideal time to replace the sand in your filter should be after five years of use as the gradual loss of efficiency may be hard to detect. You may want to change the sand of your filter, but you don’t know the quantity of sand to add and the level to stop. You’re going to find out if you read further.
Level of the Quantity of Sand to Add to Pool Sand Filter
First, the type of sand used in the filter is the # 20-grade silica sand with a 45 – 55 mm quantity. When adding this sand to your filter, put the sand till the filter container is 2/3 full to create enough space on top. This way, the sand would have enough space to run perfectly.
If the sand is not up to that level, your pool water will be cloudy no matter the number of hours you run your filter, and the pool water will not be devoid of debris. However, you should check with the manufacturer’s manual of your filter spec to see the limit given. But the expected level of sand in your pool sand filter should be 2/3 of the filter.
How Often Should You Replace Sand in Your Pool Filter?
After experimenting with all three types of filters, it is advised that you change the sand in the pool sand filter between every 3-5 years. This time frame works for when your pool filter functions perfectly.
There are times when the sand may need changing before the stipulated time, and one of such is when the pool water becomes cloudy. This is usually caused by an imbalanced pool water chemistry, which leaves the pool filled with dirt.
When the pool still has leftover debris, the filter would work more than its usual time, making the sand filter wear out the sand media and slow down the water circulation process leaving the water cloudy. At this point, you will need to change the sand media while also practicing pool treatment methods. Also, check the filter O-ring because they’re usually the first to wear out.
How to Change the Sand in a Tagelus Pool Filter?
Do you change the sand in a tagelus filter?
This question has caused a divide among public opinions as there have been people who stood for changing the filter sand and people who are against it. Still, the idea of sand replacement is a welcomed one because it is cheaper to change your sand every three to five years rather than trying to clean the sand with expensive cleaners.
How do you change the sand of a tagelus filter?
After determining that the sand in your filter needs changing, you have to gather the necessary gear and prepare for the following steps.
The following are tools used to change the sand of a tagelus filter.
Screwdriver
Hacksaw
Duct Tape
Silica Sand (Check manufacturer’s manual for quantity to add)
Garden Hose
Utility Knife
Shop-Vac
- Shut off the pool pump and discharge the filter
The first step to changing your filter sand is to put off the pool pump. Ensure the pump timer is not turned on to stop the engine from kicking up while it’s dry. Drain out water completely from the tank by removing the drain plug from the tank’s bottom.
- Detach multiport valve
To remove the multiport valve, you need to remove the connecting pipes. Cut the pipes off if they’re non-detachable. Remove the collar holding the valve with a screwdriver then twist the multiport valve gently to pull it out.
- Seal the standpipe
The standpipe is the open pipe inside the tank that connects to the valve. Use a duct tape to cover the pipe so that sand won’t enter into the filter. If the sand gets into the filter, it will be flushed into the pool as you run the pump.
- Remove the sand
To remove the sand from the filter, suck it all out with a Shop-Vac. If there’s no shop-Vac, scoop out the sand with your cup or bowl, but be careful for it not to get into the filter.
- Clean the inside of the laterals and tank
When you’ve finished scooping all the sand, you’ll see the end of the tank. Rinse the inside of the tank with water to remove all the leftover sand. Inspect inside the laterals and standpipe for cracks or damage. Any damage or crack overlooked would cause sand to flow into the pool. Repair any damage to the standpoint or tank before you add new sand.
- Add some water halfway into the tank
Put in the drain plugs and begin to fill the tank with water. Let the tank fill halfway but hold the standpipe and laterals in place. The essence of this water is to stop any falling sand from entering the laterals.
- Add new sand
Hold the bag of sand over the tank and open it with any sharp object. Let sand enter the tank up till its 2/3 filled. Depending on the size of the container, put one bag after the other. Don’t use any other sand except that recommended for the pool filter. You can increase the sand’s efficiency by adding D.E powder to your new sand.
- Add extra water to the tank and backwash
After adding the sand, pour water into the tank till it reaches its brim then install the pipes, collar, and multiport valve back to the filter system. Ensure all fittings are held tightly. Attach the backwash pipe to the filter system and backwash the filter. Let the filter run for a few minutes until the filter glass is clear. Rinse the filter and multiport valve one more time.
- Set the filter to run
Before running the filter, set the valve to filter then turn on the pump.
Conclusion
After putting the new sand and running the pump, observe the filter as it works to make sure everything is working fine until you want to change the sand again. Then relax and enjoy your pool.
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