I emptied the sand and filled again. I just saw a youtube video that says to fill the tank half way with water before filling with the new sand. Did I make a mistake? Can I fix it without emptying the sand again?
Help! Replaced Sand in a SD60 Sand Filter
- Thread starter Ace7211
- Start date
My understanding about the water is that it's added so that the sand makes little to no impact on the "fingers" of your filter assembly, and therefore reduces the risk of breaking one of the fingers, which can be fragile. I don't think it would really count as a mistake, but rather a better way to add new sand. However, I've only changed my sand one time, so I wouldn't class myself as an expert.
Okay, makes sense. I also just read that a sand filter doesn't need to replaced. I believe my filter is only 5 years old at the most. I'm beginning to wonder if the "pool guy" just wanted to make $200.
Anyways, do I need to add water to the filter tank before starting up the pump now?
FYI - I just moved into a home with a pool and this is my first experience.
Anyways, do I need to add water to the filter tank before starting up the pump now?
FYI - I just moved into a home with a pool and this is my first experience.
Hi, welcome to TFP! The sand in a sand filter usually does not need to be replaced. Sand can be deep cleaned and reseated to eliminate most problems caused by "old" sand. The filter itself can develop cracks or have parts that break and are obsolete, or just be too small for the job and need replacing for those reasons.
You do need to fill the filter with water before turning the pump on. Also put the multi port valve on "rinse" before starting the filter to flush out any sand that may have entered the center pipe while adding new sand. When there is no sand coming out you can turn off the pump and put the valve on "filter".
You do need to fill the filter with water before turning the pump on. Also put the multi port valve on "rinse" before starting the filter to flush out any sand that may have entered the center pipe while adding new sand. When there is no sand coming out you can turn off the pump and put the valve on "filter".
Got it. Thanks again. Now I'm worried that I may have broken a lateral. I assume I will know soon enough.
Also water in the tank helps the sand from becoming compacted or prematurely channeled, effecting filtration.