Pool Filter

Q: Why is dirt passing through my sand filter?

A: A number of things could be causing the problem. It could mean that a lateral is cracked or broken, or a valve may need servicing. Or, air may be passing through the filter, causing a channeling effect that permits dirt to get by the filter. In the latter case, there may be nothing wrong with the filter.

Q: I have a 10 year old sand filter. How can I determine if the sand needs to be replaced?

A: The general recommendation is to backwash your filter when the pressure reaches 10 psi over the initial start up pressure. For example, if the start up pressure is 15psi, you should backwash when the pressure reaches 25psi. If the pressure does not return to the start up pressure after backwashing, it is time to change the sand.

Q: I have a sand filter and I'm getting a lot of sand in the bottom of my pool. Do you think there is something broken inside the filter, or do I have another problem?

A: If you are getting a lot of sand in the pool there may be a lateral broken in the bottom of the filter. If this is the case, the lateral(s) will have to be replaced.

Q: How can I find out how many pounds of sand I need to put in my sand filter?

A: Refer to your filter owners manual

Q: How do I change the sand in my top mount sand filter?

A: To replace the sand in your filter you must first disconnect the pipes going into the valve on top of the filter. Next, unscrew the complete valve counter-clockwise. Once the valve has been removed, you will be able to see the sand bed. The best way to remove the sand is to either use a portable vac or just dip it out with a small can. Once the old sand has been removed, fill the tank 2/3 full of water and just pour the new sand in. DO NOT get sand in the vertical pipe sticking up from the bottom of the filter tank.

My pool sand filter is running in short cycles.

Improper backwashing could be the reason. Always backwash until the water runs clear in the valve's sight glass, usually about two minutes.
You may have have algae causing the pool filter to clog. By testing the swimming pool water balance with a test kit and super chlorinating, you should solve this problem.
NOTE: Some test kits may provide inaccurate results, we suggest taking a water sample to your pool dealer for evaluation. Be sure to take a water sample before shocking the pool.

There is sand at the bottom of the swimming pool.

The sand you are using could be too small, which will go through the filter system, then back into the pool. Remove the sand and replace it with the proper grade of sand - #20 Silica or 45-55mm pool sand, which can be found at your local pool dealer.
Your swimming pool pump may be too big for your filter. During backwashing the pressure can cause the sand to rise high enough to overflow into the standpipe, allowing sand to flow back into the pool. Refer to your Owner's Manual for the correct amount of sand for your filter.
There could be a loose lateral located at the bottom of your filter. Tighten any loose laterals, replace if broken.
Most calcium based chlorine, both powder or tablets, contain from 30 - 35% of what is called inert materials. This is calcium residue or dust, which many pool owners mistake for sand. You can confirm this by following these steps: During vacuuming, use a hand vac and pole. As the vac head approaches, , the sand will lay on the bottom, and will allow itself to be picked up. Most calcium residue will scatter away from the vac head as you try to pick it up.
If you have this problem, we recommend that you put extra water in yourswimming pool and vacuum to the waste line. If you vacuum to the filter, some of it will be trapped on the sand surface, allowing dust to get back into your pool.

My cartridge filter will not clear algae from the pool.

The three filter types will clear up algae, provided it is not in a live state. Consult your local pool dealer for the proper chemicals to help rid the algae. Most cartridge filter problems are caused by dirty, clogged or abused elements. Either clean the elements, or replace if torn or damaged.

My DE filter is running at high pressures and has a slow flow of water returning back to the pool.

The DE pool filter is loaded with too much debris or algae and needs backwashing or regeneration. If this problem persists and you notice the filter gauge pressure risingt from 7 - 10 psi above your beginning pressure, you need to regenerate your filter. Refer to your Owner's Guide for further instructions or consult your pool dealer for service.
Your swimming pool pump output might exceed the design flow rate of the pool filter. Make sure the pool pump is correctly sized for your filter.
If there is algae in the swimming pool, super chlorinate, backwash or bump/drain and recharge as needed. Make sure you are properly backwashing on your vertical grid filter. Refer to your Owner's Manuals for instructions.

My DE filter short cycles even after I backwash or regenerate and recharge.

The swimming pool filter elements may be clogged because of an accumulation of chemical deposits. Clogging is accelerated if chemicals are fed through the skimmer, operating your filter too long without DE after starting the pump, or operating the filter without DE. DE must be added as soon as the filter is full of water, and the pump is putting out a steady stream of water. Refer to your Owner's Guide for the amount of DE your filter requires.
Biguanide based sanitizers (i.e. Baquacil, SoftSwim) can cause short cycling.

Q: My filter pressure gauge has dropped below normal for a clean filter?

A: If your filter pressure gauge indicates that pressure has dropped below the normal reading for a clean filter, check to see if you have a clogged pump or skimmer basket.

01/13/10