how to replace sand in a pool filter

🏖️ How to Replace the Sand in Your Pool Filter – A Step-by-Step Guide

If your pool water is starting to look cloudy or your filtration system just isn’t keeping up, it might be time to replace the sand in your sand filter. Don’t worry—this essential maintenance task is easier than it sounds, and with the right tools and a little patience, you can get your filter running like new.

At Just The Pool People, we know that clean, sparkling water starts with proper filtration. Here's your go-to guide for replacing the sand in your pool filter.

⏱️ How Often Should You Replace Pool Filter Sand?

Generally, the sand in your filter should be replaced every 3 to 5 years, depending on usage, water chemistry, and filter size. Over time, the sand becomes worn and rounded, making it less effective at trapping dirt and debris.

🧰 What You’ll Need:

  • Replacement pool filter sand (make sure it’s #20 silica sand or manufacturer-recommended)

  • Shop vac or scoop

  • Garden hose

  • Screwdriver or wrench (for opening the filter)

  • Teflon tape (optional, for resealing fittings)

  • Safety gear: gloves, eye protection, dust mask

🔧 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Turn Off Your Pool Pump

Always start by turning off the pump and cutting the power at the breaker for safety. Close all valves to isolate the filter.

2. Drain the Filter

Open the drain plug at the bottom of the filter to allow water to escape. Let it fully drain before moving on.

** Pro Tip - If you can, remove the drain plug a few days prior to changing the sand. This will give the filter time to drain and the sand time to dry, which makes it much easier to get out. 

3. Remove the Multiport Valve or Filter Top

Depending on your filter model, you may need to disconnect hoses and unscrew the top or valve to access the sand inside.

🛑 Tip: Be careful not to damage the lateral assembly (the hub and fingers at the bottom of the filter).

4. Scoop Out the Old Sand

Use a shop vac or scoop to remove the old sand. This step can be a bit messy, so gloves and a mask are helpful. Take care around the laterals—you don’t want to crack them!

5. Clean the Filter Tank

Once all the sand is out, rinse the inside of the tank with a hose. Check the laterals for cracks or damage and replace them if needed.

The laterals should fold up so you are able to remove and wash them. 

Once everything inside the tank is clean, return your lateral, open them up and center to the top opening. Add a piece of tap to the top opening of the lateral assembly so no sand gets into it.

6. Add New Sand

With the standpipe centered and laterals closed, carefully pour in the new sand. It's a good idea to fill the tank halfway with water first to cushion the laterals as you add sand.

đź“Ź Check your filter's manual for the exact amount of sand needed.

7. Reassemble the Filter

Once all the sand is in the filter, remove the tap on top of the laterals and reconnect the top or multiport valve, and reattach all hoses and fittings. Use Teflon tape if needed to ensure watertight connections.

8. Backwash Before Filtering

Once everything is back in place, turn your pump to “Backwash” and run it for a few minutes to remove any dust or fine particles from the new sand. Then switch to “Rinse” for 30 seconds, and finally, set it to “Filter.”

Here is a simple video of how to backwash --> https://youtu.be/PVVAiHKeZnM?si=fJYzCEi2uC4hfPQT

✅ That’s It!

Replacing your sand is a great way to restore your pool's filtration efficiency and keep your water crystal clear. Most homeowners can complete this job in under two hours, and the results are well worth the effort.

Need high-quality pool filter sand, replacement parts, or tools? Check out our Sand Filter Maintenance Collection here at [Your Store Name].

đź’ˇ Pro Tip:

Consider adding Filter Cleaner once a month to extend the life of your new sand and keep performance at its peak

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