sand filter not draining

[91xplorer]

took black cap off filter water not draining out what could be the prob.

 

[duraleigh]

More info, please.

What brand filter?

What model?

Which black cap?

Why did you take it off? Are you trying to drain it?

 

[91xplorer]

hayward sand filter not sure on model right now black cap on bottom of filter to drain water out to close down for winter took cap off just little water came out

 

[duraleigh]

Frequently, those drain caps have a second, internal cap that should not be completely unscrewed but when partially turned, will allow water to come out without losing sand. Not sure if yours has that or not.

 

[heikejohn]

Did you take the top off as well?
What condition is the sand in?

 

[spishex]

Open your multiport. Put it either between positions or in backwash/rinse. Air will be able to easily displace the water that way. Even if it's just trickling that's fine. It will drain out in time. There's a small screen in there, not unlike the laterals inside the filter, that blocks sand from coming out with the water. That screen will get pretty gunked up over time but should still allow enough water through to slowly drain the filter.

 

[beaumatt]

What spishex said...it probably has a vacuum lock or similar. I have encountered that as few times over the years with mine. Mine does trickle too, but after a while, it will be completely drained. I actually just leave that cap off all winter long.