Sand in Your Pool: Causes and Solutions
What to Do When You See Sand in Your Pool
If you discover sand in your pool, it’s important to first determine if it’s actually sand. Examine it closely by feeling it with your foot and observing its texture. Note its location, as this can provide clues about its origin.
Checking Your Filter
Sand or sand-like substances near the pool returns may indicate a problem with your pool filter. Open the filter housing and inspect the sand filter for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the standpipe or linear pipes. For cartridge or D.E. filters, check for tears in the filter element by opening the housing and inspecting it visually.
External Factors
If you find sand near the main drain or stairs, it’s possible that it was brought in from an external source, such as a nearby beach or sandbox. This is especially common if you live in an arid environment with strong winds. Sand can also be blown into the pool from the surrounding area.
How to Fix a Sand Pool Filter
If your sand filter is the culprit, you’ll need to repair it to prevent further sand loss and ensure effective water filtration. Most commonly, this involves replacing the cracked standpipe or linear pipe.
- Remove the multiport valve gently to avoid further damage.
- Vacuum up the sand around the standpipe and linear pipes using a shop vac.
- Locate the damaged part and remove it.
- Replace the damaged component with a new one.
- Refill the filter with sand and reattach the multiport valve.
- Backwash the filter for 2 minutes to settle the new sand.
How to Get Sand Out of a Pool
The best way to remove sand from your pool is to vacuum it up. However, this is only a temporary solution, as the sand will eventually return if the underlying issue is not addressed. Brush down the pool to help the filter catch any remaining sand.
FAQ
- Is it bad if I am getting filter sand in my pool?
Yes, finding sand from the filter in your pool is a serious issue. It indicates an internal failure that compromises the filter’s ability to clean the water. This failure will worsen over time and should be repaired immediately.
- How often should you replace pool filter sand?
In general, sand in a sand filter should be replaced every 3-5 years. However, factors like pool usage and season length can affect this lifespan.
- What is the easiest way to get rid of sand in a pool?
The quickest and easiest way to remove sand from your pool is to vacuum it up. However, this is only a temporary measure, and the filter must be repaired to prevent future sand buildup.
Additional Tips
- To prevent sand from entering your pool from external sources, consider installing a sand trap or covering the pool when not in use.
- Regularly inspect your filter for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Monitor your pool’s water chemistry, as imbalanced water can contribute to filter damage and sand buildup.
- Vacuum your pool regularly to remove small particles of sand and debris that could potentially clog your filter.