I am positive my sand filter has never been cleaned, let alone deep clean. Already started the pool for the season, can I still do a deep clean? If so , do I disconnect all the plumbing from the sand filter? or is there an easier way? Thanks for all your help!
I want to deep clean my sand filter...
- Thread starter ahudnub
- Start date
You need to be able to remove the top of the filter to get to the sand. If you have a multiport on the side then just remove the top. If the multiport is on top then you may need to cut the pipes if you do not have unions. If you do not have unions this would be a good time to add them to your set up. Post a picture of your filter and plumbing and we can tell you if there is any alternative.
Nope, no easier way. You gotta be able to get the multiport off. Did mine last year and re-plumbed one more union into the mix so it's a no brainer next time. I suggest you reach in and scoop all the gunk out off the top with your hands as possible before floating all the rest out with a hose jabbing it gently into the sand bed. You ain't gonna believe how much will be caked up around the top edge of the sand bed.
Here is a dandy instructional article on how to deep clean a sand filter.
http://www.troublefreepool.com/threads/73192-Deep-Cleaning-a-Sand-Filter
http://www.troublefreepool.com/threads/73192-Deep-Cleaning-a-Sand-Filter
Is the deep clean more effective if you first drain the water out of the filter? Wondering if exposing the top layer of sand makes it easier to remove debris.
I doubt it. Because when you put the hose in to start washing out the debris you're going to have to fill the filter back up.
I also want to clean my sand filter, but when I tried to disassemble the lid of the sand filter I also noticed the plumbing. Tried to use a pipe wrench on the one connection on the right side, but it would not budge, it only made impressions in the plastic. Here's a picture of the lines hooked up on the left side. Any advice on disconnecting these? There will be no way to remove the lid unless I disconnect the three hookups.
You will need to cut the pipes and add unions that allow you to twist and remove the top of the filter.
Thanks, Jason. I'm not a plumber, so what do you think: would it be worth it to hire someone to do this, just so I can get the sand filter open for cleaning? Or will frequent backwashing do the job?
Buy yourself some fittings, some primer, and some glue. Take a hacksaw to the pipes. Don't forget to slip the outer ring on before you glue things together.
I learned the hard way, the unions at Home Depot are not very good. The Hayward or Spears are better.