Sand only or Sand and Pea Gravel?

[mlawrence17]

I saw a post from 2008 on this subject, but wanted to see what everyone thought now that its 2012. My Triton II (TR100) filter can be filled with either 600 lbs of sand OR 450 lbs of sand & 150 lbs of pea gravel. What are the pros and cons of the pea gravel?

Inground, shotcrete pool
16' x 36'
19,000 gallons
Pentair equipment
Charleston, South Carolina

 

[Qwaxalot]

Using the pea gravel helps protect the laterals (It takes about 150 pounds to fill the bottom of the tank and cover the laterals). Sand filters work on the square footage of sand at the surface of the sand, so there is no filtration issue with using the pea gravel. And, using the pea gravel, helps prevent clogging and calcium buildup at the laterals. It also makes it easier to clean the sand with either a manual backwash or acid washing the sand. That filter, by the way, is an outstanding filter, rarely used on that small of a pool.

 

[Bama Rambler]

Qx is correct so I'll just second that being a great filter.

 

[mlawrence17]

Then Pea gravel it is!
I'm glad you think the filter is a good one. I built the pool myself and ordered all of the equipment from an online pool supply company. So I have a feeling the equipment they selected for me might be a little overkill.

 

[RobbieH]

I KNOW that filter is a good one. Look at my sig line! You should probably be able to go the entire swim season without backflushing!