Removing sand from a sand filter

[3FootPool]

What is the quickest way to remove 250lbs of sand from a sand filter and how long would it take?

 

[Onslow]

ShopVac - maybe a half hour to an hour. Rental stores can supply you with a "good" one if needed.

 

[RobbieH]

Are you just changing sand, or putting in a new filter? When I put in my new filter, I took a sawzall to the old filter, cut the top off and shoveled out the sand.

 

[Bink]

I just did mine this past weekend, I drained the water out first. Disconnected the hoses and valve and just tipped the entire filter over on it's side. Simply scopped the sand out from there. Was even faster than using a shop vac which I had done previously. Just be careful with the plastic tubes inside when you flip it over. Since mine is under a fairly low deck I used a bucket to refill the filter as it was easier than being bent over with a 50lb bag of sand.