Sand Filter Question

[danoammo]

I have a 150lb sand filter. I purchased 3ea 50lb pool filter sand bags from home cheapo (hence 150lbs). I put all three bags in, however the filter is 3/4 full. Does the sand need to be close to the top of the pvc pipe in the filter? Say a few inches from the top? Also, I turned it on for the first time and for roughly a minute sand came out untill it cleared. Is this normal, or is my pump too strong for that size filter?

 

[JohnT]

It's normal for it not to come to the top of the filter. There's some turbulence inside. It's also normal for some sand to come out when you first start it. It's best to rinse for a while before filtering with new sand.

 

[danoammo]

Great, thanks for the quick reply!

 

[frankthailand]

You must backwash not just rinse 3/4 full is correct. backwash then rinse until clear at least 2 times before you use.

happy swims
Frank

 

[PoolOwnerNumber9]

A 1.5 h.p pump on a filter that only takes 150 lb of sand sounds too big. A 1.5 h.p pump will usually deliver about 60 to 85 gpm. A filter that takes 150 lb of sand will typically have a design flow rate of about 40 to 45 gpm. What is the flow rate listed on the filter?