Sand in Pool

[tomaz1]

So after backwashing (a lot, trying to change out as much water as possible) I started getting sand in my pool. I can watch it trickle in with little bits of leaf and other debris. (And there are small piles under the returns. It's definitely filter sand.) Based on what I've read here, it sounds like I probably need a new lateral assembly. The filter and valve (Hayward S244T) were installed in 2003. I'm thinking of doing this myself, but have limited experience. I'm also thinking that if I'm taking the whole thing apart, I will also replace the valve.

Here's what I've found for parts:

valve $83 on Amazon
lateral assembly $63 on Amazon
sand $80 Home Depot

OR

New Filter/valve complete from $320 Amazon (plus sand)

If everything comes apart the way it's supposed to, it looks doable.

My local pool shop wants $800 to replace the whole thing. Besides labor, I figure I'm buying peace of mind.

Questions:
1. Am I missing anything?
2. Is there any good reason to get the whole filter/valve combo? Will the big tank wear out?
3. When I get it fixed, can I vacuum the sand up?
4. How powerful does a shop vac have to be to suck the sand out of the filter?

Thanks!

 

[Texas Splash]

Welcome to TFP!

Besides labor, I figure I'm buying peace of mind.

You got that right. Not to mention saving some $$$. As long as your S244T is structurally sound and not weather-beaten, it should still last a good while. Many owners will remove, inspect, and replace (if necessary) laterals that may appear to be damaged. The multiport might simply need a new spider gasket and that's it. The sand is probably still good and could simply use a good deep cleaning. You might elect to swap it out since you have to empty the filter anyway, but it's your call. Once the filter is back in service, you can vacuum the pool and any residual sand no problem. As for the ShopVac, bigger is better, but take your time and work with what you have. You might be surprised and find a simple fix (i.e. one lateral) that resolves you issue.

Let us know if you have any other questions. Nice to have you with us.

 

[tomaz1]

Thank you! I'll probably be back with many questions!

 

[tomaz1]

Before I inadvertently snap one of these off... will they unscrew? (I mean the connections to the valve)

 

[Texas Splash]

Unlike a union that is designed to be removed and/or come apart, some fittings are simply a one-time good deal. Not too sure about the top pics with 2 lines going into the multiport, but the bottom pic definitely looks like a one-time item. Probably screwed-in first, then the PCV line was glued into it. You should be prepared to replace those sections and consider incorporating a union fitting for future separations if you can.

 

[tomaz1]

Thanks for the info! I was afraid of that. Do I just cut them off as close to the valve as possible?

 

[Texas Splash]

That's usually best. Cut close and save as much pipe as you can. You can always cut more off later if you need to make room for the new fittings.

 

[tomaz1]

Is this (x3) what I want?

 

[duraleigh]

I can't find it......what size is your pool?

 

[tomaz1]

I'm replacing my Hayward SP0714T ProSeries VariFlo Top-Mount Multiport on a 35k gallon pool and was wondering if this is the correct union: Hayward SP14953S 1-1/2-Inch MIP by 1-1/2-Inch Socket White ABS Flush Male/Female Socket Union

Thanks!

Link to valve:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00269II66/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Link to union:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0038ER6VG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3SPBV336YH2CX&coliid=I2P9GXIY3PYXLI