How to Operate Your Pool Sand Filter

Do you know how to operate your sand filter? Is your pool still dirty even though your pool is balanced? Learning how to use and maintain your sand filter will ensure years of usage, and keeping debris out of the water. Our Pool Specialist Jim has a step-by-step guide so you never have to worry about swimming in dirty water!

The sand filter is what pulls the dirt out of the water. Different setting on top of the filter, the first one is Filter this one will be used most of the time.
Second one is backwash, use it to clean the dirt out of the filter. When on backwash watch the clear site glass for 2 to 3 minutes until the water runs clear.
Next you need to run rinse for 30 seconds to clear the filter head.
Next is test setting it will close water flow through the valve. Good for working on pump basket.
Next Drain is used to pull water out of the pool without going through the filter.
The whirlpool setting is used to circulate the water without filtering the water.
The winterize setting is used for closing the pool for winter.
The power switch is on the back of the pump motor.
The sand will last from 3 to 5 years. To change the sand in the filter, remove the head and use a shop vacuum to suck the sand out of the filter then fill the filter halfway with water, it takes the weight off the sand going in, so you won’t damage the lateral lines in the bottom of the filter.

There is a pressure gauge on the side of the pump and should run about 8 – 12, if it is 8 to 10 psi over normal it is time to backwash.

In need of more assistance? Bring a water sample to any one of our 5 locations for a free water test. Our chemical specialists will be happy to help you achieve crystal clear water. Shop our Swimming Pool Chemicals Here