Problem with deep cleaning the sand filter

[TBalcom]

I watched the video for how to deep clean the sand filter. It DEFINITELY needed it but in the process of cleaning it, the center tube that attaches to the laterals made its way to the top. Now what!? Do I have to empty to get it to the bottom again? I tried shimmying it down and only got about 1" down. Help!

 

[Richard320]

Sadly, yes.

Many people find a shop vacuum in a wheelbarrow works well. You vacuum as much as it holds, then wheel it over to a piece of plastic and empty it. The reassemble it all and replace the sand. You should put some water in the empty filter to absorb some impact and slowly add the sand. Be sure to cover the standpipe with an empty cup or some duct tape.

 

[pypeke]

I use a plastic kiddie pool when I vacuum the sand out of the filter. Then I add water to the kiddie pool to wash any remaining gunk out. I can't drain the kiddie pool, but I can scoop out the sand to put it back in the filter after making sure the center pipe is covered and positioned in the center. We have a huge Rubbermaid stock tank with a drain in the bottom. One day, I will figure out a filter for the drain so I don't lose any sand when removing the drain cap. Maybe it will work.

 

[TBalcom]

Thank you @Richard320 ! I used the shop vac like you suggested and placed a sheet in a laundry basket to work like a "cheese cloth" and just emptied the shop vac into that. Made it super easy to clean out.

The laterals were way more sturdy than I had anticipated. I removed them and cleaned them out as well. It's all back together and running wonderfully! Now to just buy a new cap for the drain as it's leaking even with a new hose washer.
Thank you!!

 

[Richard320]

Excellent.

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